Can We Talk?

Chef Mohammed Aqlan, owner of Malooga, a Yemeni restaurant in Philadelphia’s Old City, poses for a portrait at a Penn Cooks event.

“Can we talk?”

The late comedian Joan Rivers was known for using these three little words to get her interviewees to relax and open up on camera. It’s not a coincidence that her iconic catchphrase is also an accurate summary of the Benson Photo approach to portrait photography.

What better background for an architect’s portrait than a building model?

After so many years in business, setting up the technical aspects of a portrait session is second nature, which frees me up to focus on getting to know my subject. I’m not just making conversation to fill the silence—connecting and building rapport is essential to producing a great professional portrait.

This architect is surrounded by examples of her firm’s work.

For those of us who aren’t celebrities used to being photographed regularly, getting your portrait taken can be intimidating. Nerves can result in a stiff posture or unnatural expression and take away from the portrait’s impact, so I ask my subjects about their work to put them at ease as I set up.

Out-of-focus renderings add color and context.

Learning about my subject also helps me tailor the session to their needs and goals. For example, many architects like to pose in front of blueprints or photographs of buildings they have designed. If a subject consistently wears the same thing on the job—like reading glasses or a uniform—I choose a background that accentuates it.

Subtle accessories show off a subject’s unique style, no matter their field.

Lastly, a Benson Photo portrait session always leaves room for personal style. Instead of a formal job interview outfit, I encourage subjects to wear whatever makes them feel like the best version of their professional selves. Feeling comfortable in your own skin makes it easier to give the camera a genuine smile, and rocking your favorite accessories can help you stand out in a sea of headshots.

A simple solid background keeps the focus on this executive’s smart glasses and bright red tie.

On the other hand, a bright kitchen backsplash frames and flatters the more neutral tones of this chef’s crisp uniform and favorite hat.