The Executive in New Locations
Executives and children, two of the hardest subjects to photograph. Both have their own agenda that usually does not include sitting still for photos. Executive hide behind their highly polished wood doors, isolated from the company they mold. Getting these men and women out of their comfortable setting, and into the real world often takes more than an act of God.
Executives from MillionAir, AquaPure, Houston Endowment, AT&T, LearJet, ExxonMobil, Kelly Services, Hallmark Aviation and Round House Overalls.To make the executive a real person, not just face that is seen at shareholders meetings or retirement parties, is becoming an important aspect in today’s troubled economy. To get him or her outside of the comfort zone takes a special type of corporate communications person and photographer. Two people that is not afraid of the ivory halls.
Pushing the envelope is important in capturing the the real persona of an executive, and how he or she is perceived by employees, stockholders, investment firms and the media. Before pushing the envelope, a steady groundwork should be laid by the communications department pushing in the direction they see the for the executive. Important also, is hiring the right photographer. One that is not intimidated by the often formidable personalities that those in power are convinced they possess.
Preparation is the key Scouting a location beforehand is imperative, as well as finding the interests of the executive so conversation during the photo shoot will make him or her feel at ease. Time is of the essence, so lighting and propping should be finished beforehand by using a stand-in. The real success of the photo lies when the executive comes enters and utters those intimidating words, “You have 10 minutes, lets get this over with.” That is the point that determines whether a shoot will be successful.
The executive must be handled politely, but firmly, so as to be reminded that it is the photographer that is now in charge. Of course not all are that abrupt. From the start a little mindless chatter about his or her interests usually relaxes the subject. The results are time does not become as important as when the door opened, and the subject gets into the photo session and makes it a success.
Photos of executive in unusual locations will receive a lot of attention from all types of media. These photos can be used both internally and externally. The key is always have the subject relating to what the company wants to portray. Getting media coverage this way is easy and more cost effective than buying an ad. A good photo to accompany a press release will always get better play and more space, be in in print or on-line.
Just like shooting a good children’s photo, getting a great photo on an executive means overcoming a lot of frustration. The end product however is well worth the trouble.
