Publicity Photo
Tell a visual story to maximize attention—for creative professionals, PR and marketing purposes.
Publicity photography is about capturing attention from your audience and tell them a visual story, so that they remember your personal brand. Unlike audition headshots, there is no hard rules, so feel free to project personal character in creative ways.
You could use an editorial style photography that goes with a written story or biography, or a candid documentary style photo that captures the moment. Generally speaking, editorial style photography is used to show experience, expertise or personal character, such as people who offer professional services. Documentary photography is useful to show the customer experience in a more objective viewpoint.
Examples:
- Magazine articles
- Online content marketing
- Print materials
- Social media
- Personal branding
- Dating profile photo
- VisualCV, about.me
- Senior portraits
Swap the backdrop
It is possible to take your headshot in the studio, and swap the backdrop with another picture, for example, a scenic image. There are pros and cons of this approach, so if you think this is your route, please make sure to discuss this option with the photographer in advance.
Pricing
If you are an individual or small business looking for a publicity headshot, and other creative type or media oriented headshot, the photography fee is usually 400–1600 range, but it could be tailored higher or lower. Professional makeup artist is available at prices starting at $150. Through a brief telephone consultation, you’ll get a basic price estimate. Depending on the type of work and scheduling, booking may require advance payment. All major credit cards accepted.
Commercial media editorial
If you are a magazine photo editor, advertising or marketing agency’s art buyer, please refer to commercial and fashion photography on Silvergrain.com for creative commercial portfolio.
If you are a corporation, PR or media agency looking for a more elaborate project, the price will be presented to you through the planning process. One day of shooting is usually 2500 to 6000 range, depending on the complexity of the job. Also available are post production service, professional makeup artist, hair stylist, and wardrobe stylist.
Why photography?
When you can hire a talented copywriter or make a video clip, why do you need a still photography? The answer is simple. When there are many options (which is the case on the internet) and limited time, people look at pictures first, to decide whether they want to read the text or watch the video. If there’s no good photography, other materials are less likely seen.
The resume is dead, the bio is king
Michael Margolis said in his article:
People work with people they can relate to and identify with. Trust comes from personal disclosure. And that kind of sharing is hard to convey in a resume. Your bio needs to tell the bigger story. […] share more of what you really care about. And then write your bio in service to your reader, not just ego validation. Imagine that: A compelling reason to tell your story beyond bragging to the world that you’re “kind of a big deal.” Embrace the holy-grail of storytelling: tell a story that people can identify with as their own – and the need to persuade, convince, or sell them on anything disappears.
Publicity photography is one way to facilitate “personal disclosure.” If your picture already show your point of view or tell a story, the picture validates your bio, and you’ll look a lot more credible. That’s why VisualCV and about.me have become important among high-profile professionals.
Visual code is powerful
If you are an author, composer, or anyone involved in creating a piece of intangible art, think about a way to include a visual code of your talent in your picture. Your audience will be instantly interested to learn more about you and your work.
Testimonials
Since we received so many reviews from former clients, please visit a separate testimonials page. Here’s one randomly chosen testimonial:
