Modern Graduation Photos

Modern Graduation Photos

In the wake of last years pandemic – which was fresh and new a year ago  – graduates were the first clients we worked with when we opened in June 2020. This grade eight session was done in a now empty space – free of commuters and vehicles as the pandemic asked us to work at home to stay safe.

rooftop-graduate-2021

Garages have levels denoted by colour so when I started last year my two black gowns and one blue stole worked well with the upper level of the rooftop level. It also matched his tie so the tone on tone gives a nice effect.

The garage markings can add interest to the composition and level up the already amazing indirect light. Sometimes a spot you have used a few times becomes something new when you revisit it with a new client. The new trend is a suit or dress shirt with smart sneakers (not your ratty ones, these ones are the dressy kind). Well styled hair and of course bring your diploma, any awards if they have been handed out and we document it all. I am not showing those shots but his watch is a lovely touch to complete the look.

When dressing for graduate photos be sure to dress up so the gown and the outfit you would have worn to graduation is celebrated. This young man again had this great tone on tone blue outfit which worked so well with the blue tone on the rooftop.

To book us for a session connect with us for more information: Connect Form

 Capture the experience.

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Kirsten McGoey, Visual Storyteller

 

The Visual Story of Shael Risman: CEO of PACE Technical

The Visual Story of Shael Risman: CEO of PACE Technical

They define “headshot” as a picture of someone’s head or face in the dictionary. A tool used in acting to get the job and in the new pandemic world literally the first touch point most of your clients will see. After seeing an image the client will make decisions on several fronts including are you likeable, competent and influential.

As a CEO Shael Risman spends sometimes as much as 12 hours a day on zoom and meeting software. He manages a company with over 30 staff and to say an online impression is paramount is an understatement. Meeting in person is on pause while we battle the pandemic and vaccinate the population so a series of good headshots allows Shael and his team to get down to business.

Shot on basic black we worked with Shael to style him in a grey neutral look which gives the entire series a modern, sophisticated and classic look. Wardrobe advice is included in all sessions in our preparatory call and PDF guide.

Knowing that Shael is launching a podcast which will further showcase his innovation and leadership there was room in this session for a strong image that breaks a few “headshot rules” but tells the story of this visionary leader.

If you are from the Durham Region and recognize Shael he is also a skilled actor/director and dedicated member of the Whitby Courthouse Theatre. His comfort on stage lends itself to the ease behind the lens which makes telling his story that much more fun.

For good measure we did add in one traditional headshot – even lighting, catch lights in both eyes – but there is no reason a headshot cannot (as seen above) play with those rules, play with the lighting and break out from those “rules”.

I thought I would give Shael the last word on this session as he posted this shortly thereafter:

“Trinity Design Photography are miracle workers plain and simple. Kirsten McGoey never fails to amaze me by her ability to capture exactly what I need. We wanted new pics for the podcast PACE Technical is launching as well as other professional initiatives, but a lot of times when you deal with commercial photography, the results can be a bit staid. I really wanted to have something that captured my professional persona – which – let’s be honest – does not fall easily into your usual CEO boundaries. I really don’t know how she does it but I’m so happy she does. “

If you and/or your team is looking for an update please connect with us to arrange a quote. We follow all protocols as outlined by the province and only shoot one session per day in studio. We also can come to your office to shoot a team with pre-booked appointments to ensure all COVID related protocols are taken into account.

Kirsten McGoey | Visual Storyteller | Trinity Design Photography

The Visual Story of Neil Henderson

The Visual Story of Neil Henderson

We work with a lot of professionals in a variety of different industries – what ties all business professionals together is the need for a headshot that reflects who they are right now. An image that is crisp, clear, with proper highlights in the eyes and an outfit that supports your brand but doesn’t compete with the intention – a portrait of the person wearing them.

Neil is in Insurance with CAA and needed a look that reflected the brand he works for and his own personal brand. The corporate look was using black as a background – this is a nice modern change from all white all the time. We did two black options and one white for his final three images.

When you work for a company be sure to send us your corporate brand specifications for headshots so we create a product they can use in line with their branding.

When shopping for work wear always consider one or two jackets that have some texture without too much of a pattern. These add a nice look to headshots which typically do not include any pattern. The texture should be uniform and a colour that works with your colouring. Hint – almost everyone looks good in a blue to navy colour story. Avoid stripes and plaids which can be hard to smooth while editing.

We can often however break the rule of a pattern if it is subtle enough. Note his plaid and navy jacket here reads as a solid with some visual interest. We always recommend bringing multiple options so we can help you edit your closet to the right look for you. 

The listening or “Rhonda” poses are a staple here in the studio. We love how leaning forward elongates the neck, brings the shoulders into a listening pose and shows off the client no matter what age, gender or size they are. A little catch light in the eyes gives this pose the final touch.

If you are looking to update your professional look connect with us for your update.

Kirsten McGoey | Visual Storyteller | trinitydesign.ca

Fast, Modern Team Headshots

Fast, Modern Team Headshots

We have been working for the last year with 1855 Whitby to ensure they have consistent member headshots for use on their website. This value add for members gives them a professional look in keeping with the other members at 1855 – Durham Region’s first and only technology accelerator. 

Just some of the great features of our team headshot experience include:

 

  • Quick modern set ups.
  • Full PDF of what to wear and what NOT to wear for your employees.
  • Versatility to work in both natural light and studio/Off Camera Flash scenarios on site at your business.
  • On site viewing of images being taken so team member is involved in the making of their portrait and pose.
  • On site choice of image for each team member increases efficiency.
  • Consistent look across team members.
  • When needed on site assitant to ensure a smooth process.
  • Back up gear brought to every single session.
  • Fully insured.

The process is pretty straight forward – here is what we need to quote on your team:

 

  • The number of solo and group shots required.
  • The location of your business.
  • The style of image you wish to create – studio or on location/lifestyle
  • Timeline for taking and delivering images.

Kirsten McGoey | Visual Storyteller

The Visual Story of JoAnne Drumm – Local Councillor

The Visual Story of JoAnne Drumm – Local Councillor

JoAnne Drumm Alexander is the daughter of Joe Drumm, who served on Whitby Council for an impressive 41 years serving as East Ward Councillor and then as a Regional Councillor. JoAnne is the current Centre Ward councillor serving her first term after a long career working in Library Services and also as an Early Childhood Educator.

JoAnne is the Mayor’s designate on the board of the Whitby Yatch Club, who graciously let us create images for JoAnne on site at the club. We used water as a the background for this portrait of JoAnne Drumm Alexander on a warm summer’s evening.

(above) Also shot at the Whitby Yatch Club we used the stairs to the upper deck adjacent the large room often used for parties and weddings. The mixture of glass, metal and wood textures creates a unique background for her professional image.

We have such a beautiful waterfront, it was something that drew me to the town when we ourselves moved her 8+ year ago. JoAnne and I walked the whole facility looking to the harbour, along the boats and closer to the clubhouse. She shares with me the time on the board here and growing up in Durham Region.

(above) On the yatch club side we tried all sorts of options to find the perfect shot, this one was one of our favourites. The sun in the back hitting the boats does not overwhelm but enhances the warmth of the portrait. Warmth and approachability is essential for JoAnne’s story as an educator and now councillor on Whitby Council.

headshot-whitby-drumm-JoAnne-Alexander

Serving the public takes a special kind of person and JoAnne is the first to admit she is not your typical politician. She listens and shares openly the experiences that have shaped her life. I think we talked for over one and a half hours during this session without pause. Her story needed to reflect her ability to quietly listen, her friendly sharing of her life story and her approach to her work on council.

(above) The last shot – also our cover shot – of the evening was taken just after the sun set. We call this time the blue hour. The sun still lights the sky and the earth’s shadow in seen in the sky casting a blue tone to the golden sunlight. JoAnne takes in the view on the Port Whitby side, another spot we used with permission from the Marina Supervisor.

Kirsten McGoey | Visual Storyteller | Trinity Design Photography

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