Professional Business Photos - I want to SEE You!

Susan - unless you've really changed hair or you look completely different, 3 years isn't that long - just think about our Driver's Licences!

Ginger - Great shots! 

I agree, the business suit is very professional and looks great for the web, but your white shirt is also very good, says, "I'm approachable, friendly and have a sense of style".  The blue one give to your husband framed in a nice holder - I can see why he likes that but of the three, for business, I'd go with either of the other two, depends on what message you're going for.  I also had a "suit" one and really, that's NOT me - I think I can be professional without a black jacket but that's just me.  For Realtors, that seems to be the "look",  I'm NOT a Realtor, but a Stager, and I didn't want to confuse clients either, because it's easy to do with the variety of professions in the real estate industry.  That's my 2 cents for ya!

Sheron - thanks for the "addbranding.com" advice - I'll check it out

Karen - it's important to have!

Kimberly - I hate it too! I'm the one taking the photos not IN them.  But you should really do it and just get over the weirdness - these places deal with people like us all the time - I feel your pain but once you do it you'll be very happy you took the time and invested in yourself

Kimberly - I'm sorry I missed that post! Finding a photographer shouldn't be too difficult, ask any Realtor whose card had a photo of them on it you like who did it. There are lots of chains that take portraits and business head shots, Olan Mills, Picture People, Motophoto, etc. Your photo is nice but you're too far back and then you are competing with the black thingy behind you. If that black thing hadn't been there you would have really stood out. - Good luck finding a photographer!

Maureen - Hi! You did come to mind as I was writing this because we were corresponding and I wanted so badly to see you and put a face behind the good words and comments you were giving - you are one sweet lady, not a little phantom! You always have great insight too so as you say there,

"Seeing a professional picture will stick with someone even more than the written word." really rings true!

I don't always recall the blogs and posts I read, but as soon as I see the name on a blog or comment, if I know what they look like (from their AR profile), I immediately see their face in my head.  And it's almost like we've already met in person!

;) Anthea

Judy - I hate photos because I truly am NOT photogenic - the different angles, the light, I'm never looking in the right direction they all play a factor - most people say I don't look like myself in regular family photos - a business man I know (before I had it professionally done) told me my photo made me look old and it looked nothing like I did in person - THAT made me really upset  and DO something. The truth hurts but it kicked me in the butt!

 A good photographer knows how to position you, tell you how to tilt your head, your "good side" etc... Also again, be honest with yourself and the photographer, they're human just like us and understand the feeling, just because you're a "business professional" doesn't make you confident in front of the camera.  It's totally uncomfortable especially when you know how you come out in regular photos. 

The photo you see here of me - it was not the most comfortable of positions because I was leaning back head turned, shoulders forward balancing myself on a little stool  - but it looks natural to me - not to brag - but it's the look I wanted to let people know that I'm approachable yet professional and I am HAPPY to work with you! I had many others to choose from but this was the one that showed me how I believe I am - which was a weird experience to actually feel GOOD about a photo. It makes a world of difference in how you approach the business world.  I say go for it - find a good reference and just DO IT!

Lori - yes it is important to update at least every five years or if you change your hair color!

Leslie - I am so happy to finally see you! I do like your logo - it's very cool (a different kind of face)- but it's nice to see your beautiful face too!

Angie - Thank you! I had choices but to me that white background comes out off the page better

Susan - good suggestion - only one glass though? ;}