We accept:
Professional Business Portraits
Portraits of Distinction
What is a portrait of distinction?
The business headshot
Environmental portraits
Especially for Women
Checklist for having professional portraits created
One picture is worth a thousand words...
An old saying, but it's absolutely true! As human beings, we remember what we see as much as ten times longer than something we hear. There is no substitute for visual presentation for an immediate and lasting impact
What is a Portrait of Distinction?
A Portrait of Distinction is one that shows what's different about you-one that sets you apart.
Some cultures believe that a picture "captures" a part of a person's soul. In a sense, this is true in that a portrait can portray the essence of an individual - who they are and what they are about. A portrait of distinction does that-it recognizes your individuality, conveying what is unique about you. It goes beyond being just a picture, to being a personal statement.
Whether you are a corporate executive, business owner or manager, serving in an office for a civic or service organization, or celebrating a personal achievement-- an investment in a professional portrait can reap rewards for you professionally and personally.
What are the best types of images to have?
The Professional Headshot
The business headshot is standard, however, this seemingly small representation can be a judge of how serious you are of what you do, and the profession you represent. Many times, in an effort to save a little time and money, people will use "mug" shots as their representations of themselves. Their business cards and flyers-personal billboards-- will have an image of them standing against a wall in a quick shot with unflattering lighting from on-camera flash; or they cut their images out of snapshots of themselves with other people to use as their professional image.
Ideally, the image used in professional representation should at least match the professionalism of the business or industry represented. For example, a business person working in an industry handling large financial transactions such as investments and real estate would do themselves a disservice by using just a mug shot type portrait as their personal billboard. Such an image could send the message that this person is too "cheap" to invest in their own professional-looking image, thereby lessening their credibility. It could also raise the question of whether or not this person will be around for long time, or is this just their career of the moment. To convey a professional persona, a professional image is vital.
Before and After. The "mug shot" vs. an elegant, professional image
The business headshot is also useful for other business-building opportunities: press releases; to accompany articles you may write or have written about you; your web site, promotional kits; yellow page advertising and to display in your business.
As you can see, a lot of mileage can be gained with a professional business portrait, so the time and expense to have one expertly done is well worth it.
Environmental Portraits
The environmental portrait is taken on location showing the professional is his or her environment. This could be their office or other location that they work in. A real estate agent could be photographed in front of an exclusive home; a doll-maker in the midst of her collection; a professional speaker in an auditorium.
An environmental portrait is one that truly sets a professional apart, making a powerful statement about them and what they do.
Another type of environmental portrait that every serious professional should make use of is the interactive-one that shows them interacting with a customer or engaged with their product or service. Images of this type add versatility and are very effective.
Especially for women
If you are a woman needing professional portraits, the Image Maker is the place for you! 
At the Image Maker we specialize in creating professional images for women. We understand the special needs of women in being photographed-- therefore we go beyond the norm to make sure you're comfortable and confident during your portrait session.
It all begins with a personal consultation...
Prior to capturing any images, we sit down with you in an in-depth consultation to bring together all the necessary elements for a portrait session that will produce images that show you at your best.
We discuss the clothing, hairstyle, and makeup that will enhance you the most.
The backdrop for your portrait is important and together we decide where it will be taken-in the studio, or in your office or work environment.
What you want your portrait to "say" about you is coordinated as well-confidence? Knowledgeable? Trustworthy? Success? Also addressed are any anxieties or concerns yu may have about being photographed.
This planning and preparation consultation lays the foundation for a portrait session that will produce fantastic results!
A checklist on having a successful professional portrait created
Whenever you do decide to have professional images created, here are some guidelines to keep in mind for a more successful portrait session.
Select a professional photographer experienced in photographing people- A good photographer will use lighting and posing techniques that bring out the best in you and highlight your best features. Ask to see samples of previous work. Don't be afraid to share any apprehensions you have about being photographed.
Proper preparation of hair and makeup - A portrait session is not the time to try a radically new hairstyle! Wear your hair in a style you're already comfortable with or have already been photographed with. Makeup should not be too heavy. This would be a good time to employ the skills of a professional makeup artist.
Clothing selection - Wear classic clothing that will not date the photograph. Color coordination lends harmony to the portrait. Avoid large or bold patterns and colors that may draw attention from your face, which should be the focal point. Darker colors tend to minimize body size. Coordinate attire from head to toe even if only headshots are taken as this enhances the senses of being "total" and "complete" Wear longs sleeves. If your face is full, a scooped or "V" neckline works best. A turtleneck or high-neck garment usually works well for a long neck or slender face. A scarf many times is a nice accent.
If you wear glasses - If glasses are a part of your daily attire, be sure to wear them in your photographs. To avoid lens glare, have your optometrist to temporarily remove the frames, or see if you can borrow a pair of empty frames for your portrait session.
Show personality in your portraits - Have a variety of images that allow you to show personality in your portraits. Have your headshots taken, but also take some with accessories or props that are "you." For example, if you like wearing hats, have some pictures taken wearing a couple of your favorites.
Have headshot and interactive portraits taken - The standard business headshot is essential, but also have some interactive images taken, portraits of you doing what you do-consulting with a customer, speaking before a group, in your work environment, etc. Images taken of you in your professional atmosphere add versatility and are very effective.
Relax, be yourself - Many people face a portrait session like they do a dentist appointment, and many are convinced that they "don't take good pictures." As a result, tense expressions result. Relax! Have a couple of pleasant thoughts ready to use during that time the shutter clicks. You'll have more natural expressions that will produce photographs you'll be pleased to use.
Why use the Image Maker?
We enjoy creating unique and creative images for our clients. Bring us your ideas for imaginative portraiture, and if you don't have any ideas, that's okay because we can help you develop some that will capture the essence of you and who you are.
We have over 20 years of experience in creatively photographing people!
Call us at (760) 956-8960
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