Monster Machines

Plastics Company Clean Room

A clean room is an environment, typically used in manufacturing or scientific research, that has a low level of environmental pollutants such as dust and chemical vapors. This place was pretty spotless. There were a few other rooms I had to don the cap and tyvek suit for. In these cases, I couldn’t bring a whole lot of equipment in the room with me. So the lighting is pretty basic in these shots. I knew it was more about capturing a great angle to show off a lot of what happens in the room. And how did I know that? I asked my client.

Sometimes the goal is different. I always ask my clients – what they are looking for in the photos? Are we showcasing the machine? It’s capabilities? The folks who are working with it? It’s essential to keep in mind the goal of the company when deciding what to photograph and how to do it.

For example the photos below were taken with the idea in mind that the machines look “massive and strong.” These monster machines are “well built”, and even thought there are many, many moving parts – everything fits together perfectly. The machines needed to “gleam.”  And so they do… and then the client is happy. Then I am gleaming.

Large Machine

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Photographing the Boys and Girls Club of Worcester

In every community, boys and girls are left to find their own recreation and companionship in the streets. An increasing number of children are at home with no adult care or supervision. Young people need to know that someone cares about them.

Boys & Girls Clubs offer that and more. Club programs and services promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging and influence.

Boys & Girls Clubs are a safe place to learn and grow – all while having fun. They are truly The Positive Place For Kids.

Boys and Girls Club Pool

Boys and Girls Club Play Room

Boys and Girls Club Gym

Photographing at the Boys and Girls Club was an awesome experience. It was because the people who work there are all amazing. I just can not say enough about them… Each one was friendly and extremely helpful. All were willing to work with me to create images. And the kids- were curious and respectful. It was an great day…

Boxing Program at the Boys and Girls Club

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Lighting Lighting Lighting

What’s the difference between a professional photograph and an amateur photograph? The biggest difference is the lighting. And lighting can be expensive. Which is why there are so many poor quality photos floating out in cyber space. But if you have a great product, service or space. Hiring a pro can show it off.

When photographing interiors – you really do need as much balanced lighting as possible- if you don’t use good lighting – say a point and shoot camera with a flash right next to the lens- you’ll get an amateur photo that has a bright spot in the center of the image and deep dark shadows in all the corners.

Here is an example of lots of soft- well balanced lighting- covers as much of the room as possible. It looks like the room is warm, inviting and the very natural wood finished is stunning. The fixtures look beautiful and the windows are not completely white (blown out) or reflecting any harsh light spots back at the camera.

Photo of Kitchen taken for a Professional Builder

Everything about this screams – Professional! So when you spend the time, money, and effort to create a beautiful space – seriously consider hiring a professional photographer to capture that space. This way you can have amazing photographs to show off to all your future clients…

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Do you look like your Headshot?

I was at a networking event and the person presenting at this event was a home inspector. He decided to jazz up the event by playing a little Q & A game about Home Inspections. BUT-  One of the questions he asked was “How many Real Estate Brokers are using their High School Senior Portraits on their business cards?” Everyone in the room laughed loudly- even the Real Estate Brokers. He joked further by saying “… sometimes when I meet the broker at the house I’m inspecting, I think they must have sent their mother!” I watch the crowds reaction – full of waves of laughter spread across the room… 

But this guy was right- and that was why it was sooo funny… Because it is true. 

Getting a head shot done is not as painful as the name sounds. In fact, if you pick the right photographer and connect with that person, they can create some really wonderful images of you.

You’ll want someone with experience. You should look at their work and see if you really like what they have done in the past. Ideally you will want to hire someone that can make you feel comfortable and someone you can communicate freely with. Please also look for someone who has technical abilities with lighting, cameras and lens. And you want someone who has a bit of  creativity! You really don’t want a “snap shot” feeling. You want well lit,  in focus – especially sharp in the eyes – and something that is not stiff or posed and fake looking. You really don’t want a vacant stare looking back out at your audience.

I’d also like to mention that fashion comes and goes. Trends in colors and clothing can give away just how long ago you had that photo taken. Looking modern and updated should be a key part to any successful headshot session. It really builds your credibility with your viewers. This is your chance to make the best first impression you can…

 

Let me give you an example and you can decide for yourself.

Robert's New Head Shot

 

Robert's Old Headshot

 

 

 

Here is just an example of what a client was using, an old shot from many years ago, needed to be updated to look a bit more modern and to reflect what he looks like now. His employer insisted upon the updated one… Now Robert can see why….

Can you?

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