Getting Your Picture Taken

So you have decided to use your photo in your yellow pages ad. Great!

Read about why you may want to reconsider in "Should I put my photo in my ad?".

The purpose of placing your photo in the ad is to build a relationship. Your facial expression, posture, clothing, perceived age, hairstyle, etc. dictate the type of relationship that will be created. In display ads where your photo is prominent (or even comprising the bulk of the ad), the photo is probably the most important thing. It makes the viewer stop looking to read more about your firm.

When selecting a photographer, find a person you like. If you are uncomfortable with your photographer, it will show in the pictures. In our experience, wedding and event photographers tend to be better at getting the look you will need for your ad. They are adept at capturing moods and people being their natural selves.

Your facial expression should be a natural one.  No big grins or frowns.  How do you look when you are listening to a client?

The background can be anything muted. The photographer will likely have a number of backdrops to choose from. Stay away from the standard light blue or grey backdrop. Earth tones tend to look best.

Make eye contact with the reader, keep your posture open and inviting. Wear professional attire, but nothing overly formal. A blue shirt with a muted tie is always a good choice—even for a black on yellow ad.

In summary:

• Listen and talk to the camera
• Take photos with and without your jacket
• Go to a wedding photographer - not a portrait studio
• Show the photographer your ad