Do you need headshots, but don’t feel comfortable having a session inside?
The last thing you need during your photoshoot, is the added stress of being worried about Covid. We all have different levels of comfort. So what do you do if you really need professional headshots, but don’t want to do them in a studio?
An outdoor photo that looks like a studio portrait. Karolina LaBrecque of Help to Grow Institute, in her backyard.
It all depends on what kind of photos you want for your brand. But, consider an outdoor shoot. I can create photos outdoors that look like they were taken in a studio. I will set up a backdrop and put up lights and voila - awesome headshots! However, if you have a more relaxed, natural vibe and you want to be photographed in a natural surrounding, well, that one’s a no-brainer. You have your natural surroundings as a backdrop. I may still bring in lights, because even in outdoor conditions, we can improve the quality of the light.
Karolina wanted a combination of indoor and outdoor photos - but the secret is - they were all done outside. I set up a backdrop and lights in her backyard and fired away!! Sure, the backdrop fell over once because it was a bit windy - but I just put it against a tree and we were good to go! It’s a smart thing to do, to have photos with a backdrop because those can be used anywhere. Adding additional photos with an outdoor settings can simply add to your brand.
Lisa chose to have her photos done outside and they go with the straightforward, relaxed vibe that her brand projects. Susan also wanted to project a relaxed, business vibe. Susan’s clothing is slightly more dressy, but still relaxed.
Lisa Leslie of Magnolia Method Consulting, in downtown Dover
Susan Gold of Gold and Parnters, outdoors in Portsmouth.
I set up Susan’s photos with lights and a reflector. Lisa did not need any lights, although I did use a reflector. It was an extremely bright day and we had to avoid the harsh sun. We went in and out of the shadows of trees and overhangs while the sun went in and out of clouds. I am always looking to get nice, even, flattering light on the face, no matter what the conditions. There is always a workaround!
There are so many ways you can set up outside photos that look awesome for business headshots and branding. Don’t wait to get good photos. We can do them outdoors and stay 6 feet apart!! And as I do for all of my customers, I will help you with your wardrobe and with styling.