How I Helped an IT Executive Overcome Camera Shyness for Powerful Corporate Headshots in Mexico City
As an English-speaking corporate headshots photographer based in Mexico City, I’ve worked with professionals from all walks of life—but few experiences are as rewarding as helping someone overcome their fear of the camera and walk away with confidence.
Now, let me tell you a beautiful story. Recently, I had the opportunity to work with a high-level IT executive in Mexico City. Like many professionals, he was confident in the boardroom but self-conscious in front of the lens. “I always feel awkward in photos,” he admitted during our pre-shoot consultation. “I never know what to do with my face or my hands, and to be honest, I’m here only because Alan requested.” (Alan, being the CEO, whom I previously photographed during another session in my photo studio.)
Table of contents:
Understanding the Person Behind the Title
Before I even picked up the camera, we spent a few minutes chatting—not about work or poses, but about his journey in the tech industry, his role in the company, and learning that he hates being in front of the camera. His headshots were pushed out by the CEO Alan, who used my photo services for his entire team, ensuring a homogenous image throughout the various shoots.
Having prior experience with men in my studio, I knew Darren would benefit from more talking rather than shooting until exhaustion. This is how we got to talk about how Alan discovered my services and how that helped the company.
Saying that Darren was anxious about this headshot shoot would be a total understatement. It took a few glasses of water, a coffee, and a lot of talking about everything. Over time, as I explained what I do during the shoot, he came to realise that I don’t just snap a picture. The whole session, although it had the goal of creating 6 images, was about coaching Darren to look his best.
Creating a Safe and Relaxed Environment
After a good 30 minutes of talking, explaining technical details, jokes, I got Darren where I wanted: he understood I am a professional just like him, who tried his best to overcome his fear and get him relaxed. I even confessed that I am camera-shy, too. Ok, maybe just self-conscious, but after taking hundreds of thousands of photos, I guess I shouldn’t call myself camera-shy. 😉
From the entire session, the last 10 minutes were gold: that’s when I created the images I was looking for the whole time. If you think this was too little (or too late) for a premium corporate headshots session, let me stop you right there: it happens a lot more often than you think. A headshot is a very personal experience. Because I use professionally grade equipment, it can capture even the slightest hesitation.
Take a look at the series of images below. Although it appears there are many images, these are various crops designed to help the company utilize them across multiple platforms, including a square format for LinkedIn. Do you notice the photos where Darren was less than relaxed? I bet you do see him smiling!
If you’re looking for a corporate photo session, click the button below and let me know how I can help. I’m prepared to help you craft a beautiful experience during a studio headshot in Polanco, anywhere in Mexico City, or beyond.
Gallery
PS: Darren allowed me to use his images for my portfolio.
