At Paul’s Vegas Photography, we suggest the following for the best outcome of your keynote photography. To get great photos as a conference speaker, it's essential to focus on presentation and delivery, as well as preparation for the photography aspects. Here are some tips to help you look your best in photos:
1. Engage with the Audience
• Smile & Expressiveness: Genuine smiles and varied expressions create more dynamic and captivating photos.
• Make Eye Contact: Look at your audience, not just your slides. This makes for engaging photos.
• Use Gestures: Natural hand gestures help convey energy and passion. They also make photos more dynamic.
2. Position Yourself Well
• Avoid Standing Behind the Podium: If possible, move around the stage. It makes for more dynamic photos.
• Vary Your Position: Don’t stay in one spot for too long. Moving around can create a variety of photo angles. When you move pause and wait for the photographer to take a few pictures.
• Be Aware of Lighting: Stand in well-lit areas to avoid shadows on your face. If you can check the lighting beforehand, do so.
3. Dress for the Camera
• Solid Colors: Wear solid colors rather than patterns, as patterns can distort in photos and be distracting.
• Avoid Shiny or Reflective Clothing: These can cause glare in photos.
• Consider the Background: If you know the backdrop of the stage, choose clothing that contrasts with it to stand out.
4. Use the Stage
• Don’t Stand Too Close to the Screen: Avoid being too close to the screen or standing directly in front of your slides. This ensures you are the focus, not the slides.
• Maintain Good Posture: Stand tall and confident. Good posture conveys authority and will look better in photos.
• Move with Purpose: Walk around the stage confidently, which can create more dynamic shots.
5. Be Mindful of Your Microphone
• Handheld Mic: Hold the microphone lower, near your chest, rather than right in front of your face, so it doesn't block your expression.
• Lapel Mic: Position the lapel mic discreetly and make sure any wires are hidden.
6. Coordinate with us
• Coordinate with Paul’s Vegas Photography: If possible, talk to the us beforehand to understand the plan for capturing photos and listen to advice we have on stage positioning.
• Identify Key Moments: Let photographers know if there are any key moments (e.g., a reveal or interactive segment) where great photos would be impactful.
7. Practice & Be Comfortable
• Practice Gestures and Poses: Practicing in front of a mirror or with a friend can help you find your most photogenic gestures and poses.
• Relax: The more relaxed and natural you are, the better your photos will look.
8. Stay Hydrated and Energized
• Stay Hydrated: Hydration can help you look fresh and avoid fatigue, which can show in your photos.
• Keep Your Energy Up: High energy translates into better body language, which looks great in photos.
9. Timing & Pacing
• Pause Occasionally: Pausing after key points gives photographers the opportunity to capture you without blur from movement.
• Slow Down: Speaking slowly and deliberately can also give photographers better opportunities to get good shots.
10. Posture Tips
• Avoid Hunched Shoulders: This can make you look less confident in photos.
• Open Body Language: Open gestures and avoiding crossing arms make for more engaging photos.
By focusing on these elements, you’ll ensure that you look your best in conference photos, which can be useful for promotion and personal branding later.
Know that Paul’s Vegas Photography has captured speakers in many different lighting conditions and can make your images look amazing. When you want the best photography team you need to look no further. We have you covered! Call or email us to have the best photographers capture you!
