Have you seen the social media side-by-side type posts outlining a photographer’s ability to manipulate a photograph with photoshop. Suddenly a curvier bride is thin. A thin model is more thin. Blonde hair is brown. A short guy is taller. There are a variety of programs and apps that make it easy to change a person’s appearance. Slim the face. Whiten the teeth. Get rid of a second or third chin. But, how much retouching is too much? The thing with corporate photography is that it is important for the person to look like who they really are. Clients, current and prospective, will see the photograph and when they meet you in person, it’s important that you are recognizable. Generally, corporate portrait photography will include some retouching. Perhaps it is whitening the teeth a touch, clearing up a pimple, or smoothing a few wrinkles. Maybe it’s getting rid of a flyaway hair or an unwanted crease in your shirt. As a photographer, when it comes to retouching, ethics really do come into play. Unless otherwise instructed to completely alter a person’s appearance, retouching should be done to enhance what’s already there. Historically, a professional photographer would pride him or herself […]
You work hard and you play hard; that’s often key for a successful career. In fact, those same qualities that make you valuable in your career often keep you busy in your personal life: drive, commitment, and goal-setting. So, it’s fitting that when you achieve a business or personal goal or milestone that you capture the moment. After all, you should be proud of your accomplishments. When it is a personal achievement, often your clients will be proud of you too. Whether it’s running a marathon, completing a triathlon, finishing a painting, performing on a stage, golfing, or anything, your proud moments matter. Just like with corporate headshots, Nikki Cole is there to capture your personality with portrait services. A well-shot portrait does more than show people what you look like, it helps them learn who you are. It showcases your personality, your talents and your commitment. It’s good to think beyond a corporate headshot. A professionally photographed portrait or capture of your accomplishments stands out among the candid shots. The lighting, the feeling and the moment all come through in a way a cellphone camera just can’t quite capture. If you’d like your client base to learn a little […]
Everyone can take pictures; however, not everyone has the eye, equipment and experience to be called a professional photographer. So, how do you glean out the pros from the amateurs? Experience – Everyone has to start somewhere; however, some experience does matter, especially when it comes to corporate photography. With experience a photographer learns how to manage their subjects, their setting and the client. With experience a photographer learns how to ensure the end result photos match the shot list. With experience a photographer learns how to capture those moment-in-time special details the client will love. Portfolio – A professional photographer should have a portfolio outlining their specialized type of photography. A portfolio will showcase their range of work, along with their style. Style – While reviewing a portfolio you will get a good sense of the photographer’s style. It is important you choose a photographer who has the style you are looking for. You may love someone’s photographs, but if their style doesn’t match your needs, you should look elsewhere. Equipment – From the camera to the lighting, equipment matters. It is important to provide the photographer with a brief based on your requirements and then allow them to […]
There is something about the holidays… from behind the lens the lights of the holidays and New Year have a magical essence that when captured perfectly can bring forward the spirit of this time of year in a single photograph. It’s at this time that generally we have the opportunity to look back at the same time we’re looking forward. So, this makes now the perfect time to express my gratitude for everyone who has entrusted me to capture their moments throughout 2018. From corporate headshots to conferences, from events to architectural shoots, I’ve loved being a part of your business, capturing your spirit from behind the camera. As I look back, I’m filled with gratitude and love for my job. The thing about photographs is they bring about lasting memories and you will all be a part of mine. Looking forward, I’m filled with anticipation to continue photographing brands, events, people and places. Thank you for allowing Nikki Cole Photography to be a part of your 2018. I wish you a very happy New Year.
