The Confidence to Say Cheese

Sometimes you don’t need a themed background and can just let your subject shine.

Many people do not like to have their portrait taken, but portrait photography is something I quite enjoy. I try to help my subject relax and loosen up, because candid expressions photograph best. It’s a fun challenge to generate that honesty within a short shoot.

A confident expression shows you’re serious about getting the job done.

A complementary color scheme between attire and background makes the subject really stand out in comparison.

When I take professional portraits, I try to engage the subject in some conversation. Talking about oneself, even briefly, can make a subject more confident. This produces a more natural smile, rather than an overly stiff or cheesy one.

Photographing this architect in front of a building’s exterior made for a subtly themed portrait.

Whether taken against a neutral background or surrounded by job-specific environs, the perfect professional portrait expresses your energy and passion.

The warm tones of this portrait can convey a sense of friendliness or approachability.

Be bold and skip the tie altogether! A less buttoned-up look may give a better first impression in certain fields.