Website Rebranding to Stay Current-from a top Toronto Corporate Headshot Event and Branding Photographer and Videographer

Website Rebranding to Stay Current-from a top Toronto Corporate Headshot Event and Branding Photographer and Videographer

Hi!!

It’s Rachel and Liz from Liz Caruana Photography and we’re here today to talk about website rebranding, which is basically a Website makeover. 

For most companies, websites are how they first interact with a client. Web trends tend to change every 2 years so if that’s you, it’s time for a refresh. 

We Work with you to make sure the visual story on your website not only matches what you do but also the culture of your company. This type of project might include headshots, lifestyle photography, CEO Spotlights, company day in the life and company values. 

 If you’d like to know more check out the website and contact us.

 Toronto Corporate Headshot Event and Branding Photographer and Videographer 

https://www.lizcaruana.com/ 

 

The Headshot Station - from a top Toronto Corporate Headshot Event and Branding Photographer and Videographer

The Headshot Station - from a top Toronto Corporate Headshot Event and Branding Photographer and Videographer

Ever wish there were a way to get your whole company’s headshots looking uniform and done quickly? Good news, everyone: the “headshot station” is the solution you’ve been looking for. Your upcoming conference, special event or all-hands is the perfect opportunity! Let’s chat about how your company can look its best.

How does a headshot station work? It’s a relatively contained photoshoot where I set up lighting and backdrop as usual, and you can line up and get your shots done quickly and pick which you like best, all on site and all within minutes. It’s so easy, there’s really no reason not to have up-to-date headshots for your personnel.

There are many reasons to keep your headshots current and looking good, not least because this is how you’re representing your company and your brand, but also the people you work with. The better you all look, well, the better you all look!

As you can see, a headshot can be taken outdoors, which means weather permitting, I can set up a headshot station there too, if you’re holding an outdoor event or if your company’s campus has some nice outdoorsy vistas. The results are often quite striking, and your people will appreciate the quality of the shots that represent them and help you all put your best face forward.

Anytime is the right time to start thinking about booking a professional photographer for your next event. Ask me about setting up a headshot station there; I’m sure you’ll be surprised how easy it is!

If you like what you’ve read in this post, why not visit and subscribe to my blog, my Google page, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn?

If you’d like to book a photoshoot with Toronto’s top Corporate Headshot and Event photographer, contact me today for a quote and a list of locations that’ll make the shoot a success!

Toronto Corporate Headshot, Event and Branding Photographer and Videographer

www.lizcaruana.com

 

How A Stylist Makes You Look Amazing On A Photoshoot-from a top Toronto Corporate Headshot Event and Branding Photographer and Videographer

How A Stylist Makes You Look Amazing On A Photoshoot-from a top Toronto Corporate Headshot Event and Branding Photographer and Videographer

Hi! It’s Rachel from Liz Caruana Photography and I’m here today to talk about some of the tools I use, to make clothes look amazing on set.

My number one and number two tools are clamps, and double stick tape. Double stick tape is the tool I use to fix all sorts of things. Gaping buttons, bulging pockets, from your outfit that you don’t want to steal the shot from you on camera. Clamps are perfect, they’re like tailors without tailoring. I use them to make clothes fit perfectly on a model’s body, so they can move around freely, with the clothes staying in place.

If you want to learn more, visit our website.

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 Toronto Corporate Headshot Event and Branding Photographer and Videographer 

https://www.lizcaruana.com/ 

 

Choosing The Best Corporate Headshot Backgrounds - from a top Toronto Corporate Headshot And Event Photographer

Choosing The Best Corporate Headshot Backgrounds - from a top Toronto Corporate Headshot And Event Photographer

Well, let's face it, dear Readers: none of us is getting any younger! As much as we all might like it to be so -- it's just not happening! So let's just stop using white backgrounds! They are harsh and unflattering, and are probably the most aggressive lighting you can choose for a photo. When we have a photo of ourselves, we want it to be the best possible version of ourselves. But by choosing a white background, you're opting for one of the toughest settings for even the youngest and most attractive among us to look good. Seriously, only babies look good with a white background! 

Light gray is the new black! These days I'm recommending all my clients at least consider a light gray background instead of the harsh old standard white. Light gray is softer and far more flattering, as well as looking more dimensional. On its own it serves as a much less hard and unforgiving background than white. There are no limits on using light gray as a background either, since the subject still stands out from the background. This means that if desired the subject could even be cut out from the background and placed in another (though I don't recommend this treatment - instead, I typically prefer to shoot on location. Like Hawaii! Hint, hint!). 

Early in the planning process, after we determine the location for the shoot, we'll talk in detail about backgrounds. I do recommend mixing it up a bit during the shoot -- a couple different backgrounds, maybe a couple different wardrobe choices -- to keep the energy and interest level up in your photos. But when thinking about background colors be wary of opting for white -- unless you happen to be a bright red pair of headphones, it's unlikely this setting is going to be flattering! Instead, I'll recommend light gray, as this will mean less harsh lighting and I know you'll be much happier with the headshots we take!

If you like this post please consider following my blog as well as my google page.

If would like to book a Toronto Corporate Headshot photoshoot with me, contact me today.

Toronto Corporate Headshot Event and Branding Photographer and Videographer 

https://www.lizcaruana.com/

 

Tip of the Week: Staying in Shape - from a top Toronto Corporate Headshot And Event Photographer

As the weather gets warmer and runners like me get excited to lace up for another marathon season, I'm reminded of just how important physical fitness really is. But you don't have to run marathons to benefit from staying in shape. Small things, like going out for a walk or going to bed earlier, can have a huge impact on your health, your outlook, and your life. 

Being a photographer is a really physical job. Lifting, carrying, climbing, and crawling are all part of a day's work for me. To do my job well, I try to eat right, exercise, and get plenty of rest.  Of course there are days when that doesn’t happen — I’m human! — but I try to see every day as a new chance to get on track (and make up for that dessert yesterday). 

But staying in shape goes beyond just being good at your job. Getting away from the tools that trap us in everyday life - the phone, the computer, the desk - even just for a walk can help you get much needed time for yourself, reduce stress, and get centred. 

Here are some of the ways I incorporate healthy activities into my daily routine:

• Make several smaller trips (on foot!) to the market instead of one big trip in the car

• Take the stairs instead of the elevator at the office

• Or take the stairs instead of the escalator at the mall

• Choose a parking spot waaay the heck away from the entrance to the shop

• Spontaneous dance party in the living room!

Adding even just one or two healthy activities into your regular routine can help you get on the way to a healthier lifestyle. No matter what your job, staying in shape and being healthy can help you be a better, happier, and less stressed version of yourself.

If you like this post please consider following my blog as well as my google+ page.

If would like to book a lookbook or lifestyle fashion photography photo shoot with me, contact me today.

Toronto Corporate Headshot Event and Branding Photographer and Videographer 

https://www.lizcaruana.com/

 

How to get the best headshot: environmental, location, or studio? - from a top Toronto Corporate Headshot And Event Photographer

How to get the best headshot: environmental, location, or studio? - from a top Toronto Corporate Headshot And Event Photographer

I know what you're thinking: A headshot is a headshot, right? Wrong! Where you capture that headshot is a crucial element in the final look and feel of the photos. When creating headshots for a corporate client or pitching a new set of corporate headshots, there are three types of settings to choose from: 

Environmental

An "environmental" shoot is usually shot indoors in the subject matter's own environment. It could be a their office, it could be in a warehouse, a bakery, a kitchen, etc. -- wherever they spend their time. The idea here is that the subject will be at ease in their environment (and with being the subject of the photograph!). When shooting these types of headshots, the subject can either be engaged with the camera or it can be more photojournalistic (ie, capturing them in the moment or action).  When I shoot environmental I tend to shoot both versions and let the client pick what they like as the final photo. 

We don’t always get to see what all the in between photos are but I shoot them because many times a client will also like the alternative image that can be used on the company website, for example. Environmental shoots can be great for these types of natural "in between" photos that really capture the spirit of the subject matter. 

On Location

A shoot "on location" is when the client goes to a location that is not their own. They could be in a  park, or they go to a monument, or they are somewhere they like and want it to represent them -- but ultimately the location is not their own. This is what separates an environmental shoot from an on location shoot. 

For example, an on location shoot could even be the subject with the downtown of their city blurry in the background blurry. This style of photo is frequently used when people want to give the feel of their offices being in a city or downtown. Images shot on location are mostly used for website content, though sometimes can be suitable for corporate headshots as well. 

In a Studio

Lastly, and perhaps most versatile, shooting in a studio will provide you with a truly "multi purpose" photo. Headshots done in a studio can be used on the company website, can represent you and your company, but can also be used for speaking engagements when a neutral white or light grey background is all that is needed. 

Determining which type of shoot is best will depend on the type of headshots needed and where those photos will be posted. When planning a shoot, I usually lay out these options very early in the process so that we can get our location picked out first and work on ideas and themes from there. 

If you like this post please consider following my blog as well as my google page.

If would like to book a Toronto Corporate Headshot photoshoot with me, contact me today.

Toronto Corporate Headshot Event and Branding Photographer and Videographer 

https://www.lizcaruana.com/

 

Boris Sofman of ANKI - from a top Toronto Corporate Headshot And Event Photographer

Boris Sofman of ANKI - from a top Toronto Corporate Headshot And Event Photographer

These days I'm doing a lot of corporate photography and lots of corporate headshots shoots. And while you might think that makes my job less interesting, it's done exactly the opposite. I'm constantly amazed by the unique and exciting companies that thrive here in San Francisco. Each time I accept a new corporate gig I expect something, well, corporate -- dudes in suits, stuffy boardrooms, maybe a spreadsheet or two -- and each time I am blown away by the creativity, originality, and drive that thrives here in this city. 

This was certainly true when I worked with Boris Sofman of Anki, whose Anki Drive and more recently Anki Overdrive systems seek to make physical toys as adaptable (and challenging!) as video games. If you're not familiar with Anki I strongly recommend you check them out - Anki Drive is basically like a slot car racing game that uses artificial intelligence so that the cars actually learn how to beat one another on the track. Super neat!

Co-founder and CEO of Anki, Boris was a super nice guy who was really excited about having his photo taken. This was a nice treat, as some of the executives I work with are a bit uncomfortable in front of the camera. It's always great to shoot for someone who is really jazzed to be having their photo taken. 

Before the shoot, we decided that we would take Boris' photos with his team, but with a focus on the track and the cars. The shoot was for a spot on the Index Ventures Newsroom site, so it was important to keep the emphasis on the product as well as them behind it. The photos turned out great - Boris and his team look very natural, and keeping the focus on the cars (and the fun!) fit well with the article and with the company's spirit. 

If you like this post please consider following my blog as well as my google page.

If would like to book a Toronto Corporate Headshot photoshoot with me, contact me today.

Toronto Corporate Headshot Event and Branding Photographer and Videographer 

https://www.lizcaruana.com/

 

How to Look Best for Your Corporate Headshots - from a top Toronto Corporate Headshot And Event Photographer

How to Look Best for Your Corporate Headshots - from a top Toronto Corporate Headshot And Event Photographer

So it’s Tuesday morning and you’re running out the door, trying to make the bus, and it hits you just as you settle into your seat: headshots today. You glance down and realize the rumpled shirt you opted not to iron this morning is about to be immortalized on your LinkedIn page for years to come. 

Shoot! The shoot is today!

Avoid this kind of sweaty terror — and rumply outcome — with just a bit of preparation: 

• Set a reminder in your calendar that will go off the evening before the shoot. This will make sure you don’t just remember your shoot’s tomorrow, but that you have time to prepare.

• Get some rest! Nothing will help you look your best more than a good night’s sleep, and you won’t be happy with the amount of Photoshop needed to erase a hangover.

• Clean and simple will give you the best results. This isn’t the day to try a crazy new hairdo or to get in touch with your Goth side. Opt for tidy hair, simple makeup, and a plain (clean!) shirt and you’ll be much happier with the resulting photos.

• Practice makes perfect - even for photos. Sounds weird right? But no matter how many selfies you posted to Facebook last week, it’s worth a bit of mirror time before your headshots to make sure you’re happy with the expressions about to be photographed.

Lastly, before the big day, I usually recommend you do a bit of spying. Seriously! This is the fun part —spend a bit of time checking out LinkedIn profiles of professionals you admire and others in your field. This will give you a sense for what’s out there, and help make sure if everyone in your industry is wearing suits, you don’t show up for your shoot without a blazer and tie. 

Professional headshots can give you a serious leg up in your career, whether you’re just starting out, deep in the job search, or just looking to build your network.

If you like this post please consider following my blog as well as my google page.

If would like to book a San Francisco Corporate Headshot photo shoot with me, contact me today.

Toronto Corporate Headshot Event and Branding Photographer and Videographer 

https://www.lizcaruana.com/

 

Headshots on Location: Picture Day for Grown Ups - from a top Toronto Corporate Headshot And Event Photographer

Headshots on Location: Picture Day for Grown Ups - from a top Toronto Corporate Headshot And Event Photographer

Probably one of my favourite types of shoots is going on location to do headshots. When I was based in San Francisco, I was usually headed to really cool offices with incredible corporate cultures — places like SparkPR and Ammunition. But I’m not locked to San Francisco — I travel to my client’s offices and often will attend conferences for corporate shoots. This makes sure the shoot is on their time, which for busy executives at hot start ups is usually at a bit of a premium. 

Wherever we shoot, though, I can’t help but feel like I’m running some kind of crazy Picture Day for grown ups. Especially when young, ambitious folks in their button downs and khakis are lined up out of the conference room door.

I think what separates a corporate shoot from the (often scary!) memory of picture day as a kid is the preparation that goes in, of course, and the wild variety of personalities and different corporate cultures that come out as I go from company to company. 

I still remember shooting with Derek Gillaspy of SmartRecruiters, former VP with Findly. Our shoot started with two shots, but then we added a creative third shot of him showing how he did his job on a white board. We used clear glass and he sketched out his plans — the photos that resulted were so different, and yet so honest. I couldn’t have planned for such a great result. 

More than anything though, I like helping people put their best foot forward. Maybe it’s a promotion at their company, or a new job in a new field. I like thinking that the photo on their LinkedIn page can play a role in helping people look their best for their careers. And that’s really what I love most about Picture Day.

If you like this post please consider following my blog as well as my google page.

If would like to book a Toronto Corporate Headshot photo shoot with me, contact me today.

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Toronto Corporate Headshot Event and Branding Photographer and Videographer 

https://www.lizcaruana.com/