How a Life Coach Can Help You Prepare for Your Professional Headshot

 Author: Laura Dusek

When it comes to getting a professional headshot, many people think it's all about having a good photographer, the right outfit, and flattering lighting. While these elements are certainly important, there's another layer of preparation that often goes overlooked—mental and emotional readiness. This is where a Life Coach can make a significant difference.

Building Confidence

A professional headshot is not just a picture; it’s a representation of who you are and what you bring to the table. A Life Coach can work with you to build the confidence necessary to project your best self in front of the camera. They help you identify and break through any self-doubt or insecurities that might be holding you back. With the right mindset, you’ll not only feel more confident, but that confidence will be evident in your photos.

Clarifying Your Personal Brand

Your professional headshot should communicate your personal brand. But how do you know what that brand is? A Life Coach can guide you through the process of defining your brand by helping you understand your values, strengths, and what sets you apart. They assist you in aligning your headshot with the message you want to convey to potential employers, clients, or collaborators.

Reducing Stress and Anxiety

The thought of having your picture taken, especially in a high-stakes situation like a professional headshot, can cause anxiety for many people. A Life Coach can teach you techniques to manage and reduce this stress. Whether it's through mindfulness exercises, breathing techniques, or other stress-management strategies, they can help you approach the photoshoot with a calm and positive mindset.

Enhancing Your Presence

Presence is about more than just how you look—it’s about how you carry yourself. A Life Coach can help you develop a stronger sense of presence, which translates into more impactful body language, facial expressions, and overall demeanor. This is key to ensuring that your headshot not only looks professional but also feels authentic.

 

Setting Intentions

Going into a photoshoot with clear intentions can make a world of difference. A Life Coach can assist you in setting those intentions, ensuring that you’re not just aiming for a good picture, but a representation of your best self. Whether it’s projecting leadership, approachability, or creativity, knowing what you want to convey helps both you and the photographer work towards a common goal.

Personal Growth and Transformation

The process of preparing for a professional headshot can also be a journey of personal growth. Working with a Life Coach allows you to explore areas of your life that may need attention, leading to transformations that go beyond the photoshoot. The insights gained during this process can positively impact other areas of your professional and personal life as well.

Conclusion

Elevate your professional headshot experience by working with a skilled photographer and a Certified Master Life Coach like me. At Laura’s Freelance in Spokane, Washington, I go beyond capturing your outer appearance, focusing on the mental and emotional preparation that ensures your headshot reflects your inner confidence, clarity, and purpose. My coaching seamlessly complements the photography process, creating a stress-free experience with truly impactful results. With sixteen years of photography expertise, along with my credentials as a Certified Master Life Coach and Image Consultant, I deliver a Grand Slam Professional Headshot—giving you the best of both worlds and the support of someone you can trust to guide you through the process like no one else can.

 

The Real Costs and Value of Professional Photography: Clearing Up Misconceptions

Author: Laura Dusek - Professional Photographer

In the past few days, I've encountered a recurring misconception about the "Right to Use" images and the distinctions between Copyright and Intellectual Property. As a professional photographer, it's vital to address these misunderstandings and highlight the true value of our work.

Understanding Copyright and Intellectual Property

Firstly, it's essential to recognize that a photographer's livelihood is built upon the images they create. These images are not merely products but reflections of their skill, creativity, and years of experience. By law, the common law copyright belongs to the person who took the image, giving them the exclusive right to use and distribute their work.

The Financial Realities of Running a Photography Studio

Running a photography business is far from inexpensive. Consider these monthly expenses and efforts:

• Studio Costs: $3000+ per month
• Communication: 5-10 hours of online or phone communication
• Emails: 3-8 depending on the project details
• Phone Calls & In-Person Meetings: Numerous
• Scheduling & Shoot Day: Minimum of 2 hours
• Equipment Costs:
• Camera body: $4000
• Lenses, lights, props: $$$
• Insurance fees: $18 monthly
• Licensing fees for stock images: Varies
• Software fees (Adobe & others): $40 monthly or $480 yearly
• Quality review software for client selection: $40 monthly or $480 yearly
• Lab fees: 4%
• Camera maintenance and equipment replacement
• Continued education: $800-$2000 yearly
• Editing: 3-5 days of solid work at $40-$100 per hour
• Credit Card Processing Fees: 3-6% of the total
• Yearly Taxes: $3000 or more
• Computer Costs: $4000
• Storage Costs: Hard drives for backups
• Printing Costs: Paper, ink, printers

These expenses illustrate the significant investment a photographer makes to provide high-quality services and products.

The Misconception of "Basement Pricing"

Many clients see amateur photographers or those with only a cellphone offering low prices and assume that all photographers should charge similarly. However, this overlooks the substantial costs and investments professionals incur to ensure they deliver the best quality. When a client haggles over a price package, they often fail to realize that this package barely covers the business expenses, let alone provides a sustainable profit.

The Value of Professionalism

Think about other professionals—physicians, attorneys, mechanics, hairdressers, florists, lawn maintenance services. Do you negotiate with them or shop around for garage deals? Typically, no. You expect to pay their fees because you trust in their expertise and the quality of their work.

Why Professional Photographers Don't Give Clients Full Rights to a Photograph

In the world of professional photography, the question often arises: why don't photographers grant clients full rights to the photographs? 

The answer lies in the fundamental principles of copyright, the nature of the photographer's business, and the value of their creative work. Here are some key reasons:

1. Preserving Intellectual Property

Photographers, like other artists, create intellectual property when they capture an image. By law, the copyright to the photograph belongs to the photographer from the moment the shutter clicks. This copyright grants the photographer exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, and display the image. These rights are the cornerstone of a photographer’s business, allowing them to control how their work is used and to protect their creative investment.

2. Protecting Revenue Streams

Photographers make a living by licensing the use of their images, not by giving them away. Licensing allows clients to use the images for specific purposes while the photographer retains the right to use the images in other ways, potentially creating additional revenue streams. Granting full rights to a client would eliminate the possibility of future earnings from those images, severely impacting the photographer's ability to sustain their business.

3. Maintaining Creative Control

When photographers retain the rights to their images, they can ensure that their work is used in a way that aligns with their brand and creative vision. Full rights could lead to the images being altered or used in contexts that could damage the photographer's reputation. By controlling the use of their work, photographers can maintain the integrity and quality of their portfolio.

4. Ensuring Proper Attribution

Retaining copyright ensures that photographers receive proper credit for their work. Attribution is not only a matter of professional pride but also a critical marketing tool. When images are used and credited correctly, they serve as a form of advertising, potentially attracting new clients and opportunities.

5. Legal and Ethical Considerations

Professional photographers often have to navigate complex legal and ethical landscapes. Granting full rights can sometimes lead to unforeseen legal complications, especially if the images are used inappropriately or in contexts that could lead to disputes. By retaining control, photographers can better manage these risks.

Conclusion

Professional photographers invest significantly in their craft, from equipment and software to continued education and business expenses. The packages they offer are not just about taking photos but about providing a high-quality, skillful service that reflects years of investment and dedication. It's essential to recognize and respect this when considering the cost of professional photography services.

While it might seem more straightforward for clients to receive full rights to the photographs they commission, doing so would undermine the photographer's business model, creative control, and legal protections. Instead, licensing agreements are designed to balance the needs of the client with the rights of the photographer, ensuring that both parties benefit from the transaction. This approach not only supports the sustainability of the photography industry but also preserves the integrity and value of the creative work.

Demystifying- Corporate and Business Photography: What Goes On Behind the Scenes of a Professional Shoot?

 

Title: Demystifying Corporate and Business Photography: Behind the Scenes of a Professional Shoot

Author: Laura Dusek - Photo Art by Laura Photography

Introduction

In the digital age, a picture is

worth more than a thousand words; it's worth countless impressions, clicks, and shares. This is especially true in the corporate world, where image and branding are critical. Whether it's for marketing materials, websites, annual reports, or social media profiles, businesses invest significantly in professional photography to convey their message effectively. However, what actually goes into a corporate or business photography shoot is often underestimated. In this article, I would like to take you behind the scenes of a professional shoot, revealing the careful planning, the creative process, and technical expertise that make corporate and business photography stand out. 

1. Pre-Production Phase

a. Concept and Briefing A successful corporate photoshoot starts with a clear concept. Businesses need to decide what they want to convey through their images, whether it's professionalism, innovation, or a specific product or service. This involves a thorough briefing, often including the company's branding guidelines and style preferences. As a Professional Photographer, my job is to work closely with the client during the concept and briefing stage to understand their vision and goals. I need to ask the right questions to get a clear picture of what they want to convey through the images. This involves discussing the message they want to communicate, the target audience, and the intended use of the photographs. I also need to consider the company's branding guidelines and style preferences to ensure that the images align with their overall visual identity.

Once I have a comprehensive understanding of the client's needs, I can start developing the concept for the photoshoot. This might involve brainstorming creative ideas, planning the visual elements, and determining the best approach to capture the desired message. It's essential to create a concept that not only meets the client's objectives but also has a unique and engaging quality to make the images stand out.

During the briefing process, I'll also communicate the logistics of the photo shoot, such as the location, scheduling, and any specific requirements, like props or talent. Clear and open communication is key to ensure that the client's expectations are met and that the photoshoot runs smoothly.

In summary, my role as a professional photographer in the concept and briefing phase is to collaborate closely with the client, understand their objectives, and develop a creative concept that aligns with their brand and messaging. This stage is crucial in setting the direction for a successful corporate photoshoot.

b. Location Scouting Selecting the right location is crucial. The setting should align with the desired message. It could be a well-lit office space, a manufacturing facility, a pristine studio, or even an outdoor location. My role as a Photographer is to ensure my client's goals are met, which means I  may need to visit the location beforehand to assess its suitability and lighting conditions. 

c. Talent and Wardrobe If the shoot involves models or employees, talent selection is essential. Wardrobe choices should be in line with the concept and branding guidelines. This includes clothing, accessories, and props, which must be prepared and organized well in advance. This process can take time to organize and acquire.

d. Equipment and Technical Setup As the photographer, along with a team, we prepare all our equipment. This includes cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, and any other specialized gear required for the shoot. Technical considerations such as exposure settings, white balance, and shooting format are all critical for a successful shoot. 

e. Permits and Legal Considerations Depending on the location and nature of the shoot, permits, and legal documentation may be required. This often includes model releases, property releases, and permissions from relevant authorities. 

One key aspect of legal considerations is obtaining model releases. These documents are essential when the photoshoot involves individuals, whether they are professional models or employees of the client company. Model releases grant permission to use the likeness and image of the individuals in the photographs, ensuring that their rights are respected. This step is critical to prevent legal complications that might arise if the images are used for marketing or promotional purposes.

Additionally, property releases are necessary when the photoshoot occurs on private property or in locations where ownership rights are in question. 

Property releases grant permission to use the property's image in the photographs, safeguarding against potential legal issues concerning the use of private or commercial spaces in the images.

Moreover, depending on the shoot's location, certain permissions from relevant authorities may be required. For example, if the photo shoot takes place in a public space, obtaining permits from local municipalities may be necessary to ensure that the shoot does not disrupt public activities and complies with local regulations.

The responsibility for acquiring these permits and legal documentation typically falls on the photographer and the client, with legal counsel or experts in contract law often involved to ensure that the documents are comprehensive and legally binding. Clearing these legal hurdles not only prevents potential legal issues but also demonstrates respect for individuals' rights and private property, contributing to the overall professionalism and ethical standards of the corporate photography industry. 

In summary, navigating permits and legal considerations is a crucial part of corporate photography, and it underscores the importance of conducting photoshoots within the bounds of the law and ethical practices.

Next time we will continue with more about what really goes on behind the scenes. 

The Creative Process

Follow Me For More... 

Laura Dusek | Professional Photographer | Spokane Valley WA.

Who's Up for An Adventure?

 So - Who's Up for An Photographic Adventure?

I am looking for some fantastic photography locations here in the Pacific Northwest - Starting off with a day trip and then working up for the long haul excursions.  If you are from the Spokane area I am reaching out to you to advise me on locations of amazing Landscapes.  To top it off, as a bonus I am open to inviting the person that makes the best suggestion to tag along with me and I will buy you lunch,  as a way to say thanks for the tip. Plus I will also gift to you one digital image of our journey. This is something I rarely do - so I wanted to make this idea very special.  You will be given a written letter of permission to post my professional image on your social media to talk about our day just as long as you give me credit in your post.  

We can make a day of it.  I will be in communication with you via video or email to select the date to head out on our adventure.  If you are in need of some pointers about your camera, please bring it along with you.  I will be happy to give you any tips that may be helpful.  I shoot only in the early morning or early evening hours.  So lunch will be after or before the shoot.  Then we head home.  

Comment your ideas to me at Laura@photoartbylaura.com  Leave me your contact information and where you think would be the perfect Landscape photography location and why.  

I am excited to take this adventure. 

I actually stopped on the side of the road a few weeks to take this image.  Sometimes the best locations are the ones that just appear.  So think outside the box a bit. The location does not have to be a "Popular" spot.  The location could be just a place you have often driven by and thought to ourselves, that's really beautiful.  Just make sure it's safe to get out and photograph.  

Same with this Lake Crescent location.  I am inviting you to look at the world the way I do.  You will be surprised what you find when you take a different perspective on the world around us. 

Forks WA- Making Lemonade from La Nina

October 16th and I am here in Forks, WA with a Plan...well it appears that La Nina decided to botch my "Plans" and rain cats and dogs.  The drive up however was beautiful with stunning winding roads and beautiful Fall colors everywhere.  My only complaint is the the DOT does not accommodate individuals like myself, who are addicted to nature and beauty and want to pull off on any given, occasion to capture said beauty, so sadly, I have to just snap a photo in my head and drive on.... bummer.

I found this great location to stay for my two days here. The Olympic Suites Inn.  They converted what used to be an Apartment complex.  King size bedroom with Living space and a full kitchen.  Microwave, Dishwasher and Full size refrigerator and Stove/oven for cooking.  You could stay here for a solid month and have practically everything that you need and be comfortable.  

So I decided to take this quiet time and catch up with my Blog.  Got my coffee, apple fritter, water & laptop - obviously 😃  Journal and glasses.  Quiet space to write and creative music to think by on Spotify.  I am indoors with a picture window and a perfect size table from which to write.  Can't think of an alternative better way to spend my day.  

I am hopeful tomorrow will give me a window of opportunity to grab a few shots before I depart.  The plan was to go to Ruby beach today and hit a few other spots on my way back to the Motel.  I did see a sign as I was driving in to the Worlds Tallest Spruce Tree so maybe I will get lucky to grab a photograph of that on my way out.  La Push is breathtaking and First Beach as well.  You can view a few images that I previously shot from this area on my website. www.photoartbylaura.com  

I grew up in Grays Harbor County and hardly ever did we come up here when I was a child.  I do remember fondly traveling to the Quinault Lodge for Thanksgiving or other special holidays.  Just an hour or so more would have brought us here to Forks.  

Last night I took some laid back me time and what else do you do in Forks besides taking pictures? Well you open your laptop, log into your Prime Account and watch Twilight with a glass of Vampire Wine - of course. It was actually fun.  I got to speak with my Granddaughter on the phone and reminisce  with her.  It was a perfect moment.  

As I was driving in about 5 o'clock last night I glanced to my left and this is what I saw, yes, did I say it is raining here?

I did have a small window of opportunity to pull off and grab a few shots.

Catch up again soon.

Hugs,

Laura

 

 

Hey All.  I know that I said that I would be writing this blog almost daily, ...well I neglected to take into account the access to technology and great Wi fi, and getting to and from locations, plus sleep; haha, what is that, who said I need sleep.  so let me play catch up.  

This has been so much fun traveling the East coast.  We began this trip in Burlington VT. then we progressed to a really great ski lodge called Bolton Valley Resort, from there we stayed two nights in Stow VT which was a place I could easily call home.  Everything is so relaxed there.  So after our stay in the Green Mountain Inn we have made our way to Portsmouth NH which is the third oldest cities in the country, Buildings from the 17th and 18th century line the streets,  the North Church stands like a grand lady in the center of town.  Prescott Park boasts beautiful gardens and a great view from the docks. We found a really lovely place to stay at the Anchorage Inn soon to be taken over by Comfort INN's but the Prescott Suite was simply, lovely.  I have been very surprised how quickly in retrospect how close all the villages and towns are located to one another.  Cemeteries are practically on every corner.  USA flags are respectfully posted on the graves of Military which was so wonderful to see they were not forgotten,  History is everywhere and it's breathable.  Walking on the streets and standing in or near buildings where major decisions were discussed that changed the fabric of our future as a country was so profound and powerful to me personally. My husband made the comment that our drive is a living museum, which was so spot on.  For the next few days we are staying at a sweet motel called Acadia Pines in Bar Harbor Maine. We even have a small kitchenette that was nice to actually cook bacon and eggs plus drink a decent cup of coffee the way we like it. For the last few days the rain has been coming down in sheets, so I thought I would take a few minutes to get this blog out.  

I have been so blessed on this trip to capture some amazing beauty.  I set out to capture a few covered bridges and find some light houses and a few quaint farms.  I wanted to find images that have been on my professional bucket list for years.  I got that and more!  So with the weather not exactly on my side, I took the time to get some post processing productive time in,  I am so darn excited to share with you my journey in photographic art.  I should be uploading to my gallery in just a few days.  Hear is a teaser. 

As for the food, Let's just say, we have not suffered.  Yes, we had Lobster here in Bar Harbor... so much FUN.  As for the time difference, I think I will try and keep this biological eastern time zone clock going, I get a ton done before anyone is even awake on the west coast.  Well, that's the theory and I'm sticking to it, for now any way.  Time to get back to taking more photos, time is slipping away before we jet back home.  Talk again soon.  

Hugs, 

Laura
Photo Art by Laura Photography

12 Day Countdown.

 Well, 12 Day Countdown.  I am starting to get very excited!  

Reservations have been locked in and Pre-Flight Clearance applied for. and cleared.   We decided to have a service pick us up at 4 am and drive us to the airport and drop us off at the gate.  So I suppose we are going in style, well no limo but that comes later... haha. maybe.  

As for what I am taking to do this particular long-distance photoshoot, that was a big decision. It's not like I can just run home and get what I forgot. So my bag will include a Nikon D7000 camera, Two battery backups, Rokinon Series II Full Frame Ultra Wide Lens. Specs 14 mm F.2.8 Sigma Telephoto Lens and a Tamron 300 mm lens.  One Sunpak Ultra Pro 423 tripod.  FlashCards which holds 64 gigs each.  In addition, I am taking the laptop to do post-production work per day. If you are wondering if I will be loading images up for sale, the answer is yes.  Keep watching my Facebook and Instagram pages for updates on my progress.

Black Lake in the Fall - Olympia

Vermont and Maine they say have the best Fall Colors and it's been on my Photo Bucket List for years. I have been pinning ideas for weeks on Pinterest where to go, what to eat and what to wear,?  I purchased a few LL Bean pants and so they will coordinate nicely with a few cute tops that I already have in my wardrobe.  Fall is my favorite time of year for the season and for the clothing. Plus pumpkin everything is back, what could be better.  

So stay tuned for my updates as our trip progresses. And watch our Social Media feeds for news as well. I am always posting new information... we, at least I am trying to. Speaking of posting new information.  We are working on a LIVE Gallary Virtual showing this September 10th Friday evening at 7:00 Pacific.  So tuck in the kids or give them something to entertain themselves for about an hour so you can watch us Live on Facebook; we are trying to also do a LIVE for Instagram followers as well, if we have glitches, please be patient with any technical difficulties. Sign up early on my website so you can grab an image while they are available. www.photoartbylaura.com  All Credit Cards are Accepted and all sales are final. In addition to this, we are also having a Flash Sale for Labor Day weekend.  10% off at check out. With a code, come over to Facebook to get the code, and don't forget to like and follow our page. 

Sunflower in blazing color

Have a fantastic and blessed day.  

Laura ~ Photo Art by Laura Fine Art Photography

Three-week Photoshoot Coming Soon

Follow along with me on this journey.

Not many can say they have never been on a vacation.  Well, when I was young with my parents, we had vacations but I have not had the opportunity to go on a "vacation" as an adult so I am very excited. 

As my first blog post in a very long time, I thought I would take you along with me.  This post will be a three-week-long diary of my travel to a business trip/vacation to Vermont and Maine in September.  

My goal is to capture Autumn's beauty of the land and sea.  I am intent to locate a few lighthouses and covered bridges, country farms, and a few historical locations as well.

My husband and I are also really looking forward to eating an authentic Maine Lobster... 

So if you have some suggestions, please pop me an email and give me some of your suggestions. Watch for all of the amazing images that will be uploaded on a regular basis in my gallery.  www.photoartbylaura.com

Come and take a walk with me as I search for Autumn's splendor in color.