Business Desk

Business professionals and executives are understandably not typically enthusiastic about devoting much time to sit for a portrait that supports their interview. Since I despise corny desk shots, where a subject is parked behind a desk with a phone attached to their ear, I must show-up with two or three options and set-ups in mind–without knowing what spaces and props will be at my disposal.

Oftentimes, I must visualize the portrait with just a few ounces of insight on the subject: name, professional title, type of business and key responsibilities. The best portraits–the ones I like most–come from sessions where I can call the subject a day or two before of our shoot date, ask a few questions to inspire my approach, then suggest we shoot after work on a soccer field, during the rush of lunch hour, or in front a pizza oven getting piping hot pies ready for delivery.

In my 10 years of photographing business professionals and executives, I have never had a subject who didn’t feel comfortable with my personality from the front door. Mind you, I’m not the joke-cracking type, instead I rely on my awareness of current affairs and various cultures to stir cordial conversation.

Knowing how to manipulate light and a camera is pointless if I’m not also professional, courteous, resourceful, punctual and gently persuasive to negotiate with time-sensitive business professionals. Some would rather not leave their office just to support my need to meet the creative expectations of editors; it’s a delicate balancing act that I now master.

I have encountered corporate attorneys, airline executives and a host of CMOs, CFOs and CEOs who refused to enter an elevator to leave their floor just for a photograph. So I ask an assistant or receptionist for a tour of their library, lounge and boardroom and work what I can access.

My eyes search for accessories such as decor embellishments or architectural elements that add interest to the portrait’s atmosphere. When I deliver a portrait of the subject on their desk, it’s a sign that I hit the last resort button, which I execute with a smile.

I am always conscious of visual balance, when I location scout I survey the flow of lines, impact of light and weight that colors bring to a shot. I choose where I will place a black blazer and striped tie, and visualize the subject standing, sitting or walking through the space. I never ask busy professionals to demo a pose.

I have immense admiration for situations that make me sweat to get the shot. It’s true, challenge grants greater reward. I am always psyched and game for the challenge.