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Elevate Your Team’s Presence: Professional Headshots for Your Entire Company

Executive summary

Company-wide headshots are more than a photo day—they’re a brand system. Done right, they unify your people across websites, pitch decks, LinkedIn, press, sales enablement, badges, and recruiting. Below is the playbook we use at Saint Louis Business Portraits to deliver consistent, authentic portraits at scale—fast—while protecting likeness, diversity, and brand standards.

Why company-wide headshots matter to marketing & comms leaders

  • Brand cohesion at scale: One visual language across offices, roles, and hiring waves.
  • Speed to publish: Frictionless approvals, batch deliverables, and pre-built crops for every channel.
  • Recruiting & sales lift: Polished, consistent profiles build trust and raise response rates.
  • Risk reduction: Documented edit policies, privacy controls, and optional content credentials.
  • Operational sanity: Centralized scheduling, mobile studio setups, and turnkey post-production.

The framework: how we roll out headshots across an organization

1) Stakeholder alignment (60–90 minutes)

  • Define usage map (web team pages, PR, internal directory, ATS/HRIS, ID badges, Zoom/Teams).
  • Lock visual spec: background, focal length, crop rules (circle-safe and square), color vs. B/W.
  • Establish retouching policy (natural, likeness-preserving; opt-in for minor cosmetic fixes).
  • Choose SLA tier: same-day, standard (2–3 business days), or executive/PR rush.

2) Pre-production: the “Look Bible”

We create a one-page guide you can send to every participant:

  • Wardrobe & grooming by department/brand palette.
  • Do/Don’t examples (glare, patterns, lanyards, posture).
  • Accessibility & inclusion notes (mobility, neurodiversity comfort cues, religious attire).
  • Calendar links with reminders and prep checklist.

3) Logistics & scheduling

  • On-site micro-studio(s): We bring identical lighting kits to each location (or set up in our studio).
  • Throughput planning: 6–10 minutes per person with overlapping buffers; dedicated walk-ups lane.
  • Executive timeboxing: 5-minute VIP flow with live tethered review and instant selects.
  • Remote hires: Rolling studio days monthly/quarterly plus secure mail-in backdrop kits when needed.

4) On-set capture & quality control

  • Tethered capture to calibrated displays; real-time expression coaching and pose micro-adjustments.
  • Expression series: neutral → approachable smile → confident smile (coverage for all use cases).
  • Data hygiene: Structured filenames on ingest (e.g., Brand_Loc_LastFirst_Role_YYYYMMDD_v01).
  • Consent & usage: Optional on-set release forms and alt-text prompts gathered with the subject’s input.

5) Post-production: AI-assisted, human-guided

We use modern tools to accelerate, not to fabricate.

  • Smart culling surfaces the sharpest, best-expression frames; editor has final say.
  • Skin-texture–aware retouching: Temporary blemishes and lint cleanup; no identity reshaping.
  • Glasses/glare fixes while preserving frame geometry; flyaway hair cleanups with fine masks.
  • Background unification via precision matting; brand-approved backplates with realistic shadowing.
  • Relight harmonization for multi-site consistency; exposure/white balance normalization.
  • Audit trail & provenance: Versioned edits and optional C2PA Content Credentials.

6) Proofing & approvals

  • Private proofing galleries with @mentions, side-by-side A/B, and per-file approvals.
  • Teamwide status dashboard: who’s shot, who’s approved, who needs reschedule.
  • Automated reminders keep projects moving without adding PM load to your staff.

7) Delivery & integration

  • Channel-ready exports:
    • LinkedIn 1:1, directory 3:4, website hero 16:9, PR 5:4, and circle-safe crops.
    • JPEG/WebP (web), TIFF (print), PNG (transparent background).
  • Metadata & accessibility: IPTC fields (name/role/rights), suggested alt-text, release linkbacks.
  • Handoffs: Structured folders + checksum manifest; push to DAM/SharePoint/Google Drive/Dropbox.
  • Maintenance cadence: Quarterly or biannual “new hire days” to keep your universe current.

Governance, privacy, and inclusion you can trust

  • Likeness policy: We enhance clarity and polish while preserving identity and natural skin texture.
  • DEI-minded color: Calibrated workflows across diverse skin tones; brand look applied consistently.
  • Privacy & security: Access-controlled portals, limited retention windows, and on-prem options for sensitive clients.
  • Clear rights & usage: Licensing summaries delivered with your assets; optional talent releases stored alongside files.

KPIs to measure impact

  • Time-to-publish from shoot to live page.
  • Coverage rate (% of staff with approved headshots).
  • Consistency score (background/crop/grade conformance).
  • Stakeholder satisfaction via lightweight post-project pulse.
  • Recruiting enablement (profile completeness, candidate response lift—where tracked).

Sample rollout timeline (100–300 employees)

  • Week 0: Look Bible, scheduling links, pilot test (5–10 people).
  • Week 1: On-site shoot(s), exec block, remote slots opened.
  • Days 2–4: Proofs delivered, comments resolved.
  • Days 4–7: Final exports, DAM ingest, rights summary shipped.
  • Ongoing: Monthly “new hire” mini-sessions; biannual refresh.

Frequently asked questions

Can you match our current headshot style?
Yes. Provide references and we’ll build a brand LUT/background library for perfect continuity.

What if teams are hybrid or fully remote?
We schedule rolling studio days and provide alternative capture options with our traveling kits and guided remote sessions, then unify looks in post.

Will AI make faces look fake?
Not in our pipeline. We use AI for speed (masking, glare, batch conformance) while enforcing texture-preserving retouch standards. No bone-structure changes—ever.

Can you handle executive PR needs on short notice?
Yes—same-day or next-day executive finishing is available with prioritized QC and PR-friendly crops.

Do you support content authenticity?
We can embed Content Credentials (C2PA), documenting edits/provenance on request.

Why partner with Saint Louis Business Portraits

Saint Louis Business Portraits is a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company with the right equipment and creative crew service experience for successful image acquisition. We offer full-service studio and location video and photography, as well as editing, post-production and licensed drone pilots. Saint Louis Business Portraits can customize your productions for diverse types of media requirements. Repurposing your photography and video branding to gain more traction is another specialty. We are well-versed in all file types and styles of media and accompanying software. We use the latest in Artificial Intelligence for all our media services. Our private studio lighting and visual setup is perfect for small productions and interview scenes. Our studio is large enough to incorporate props to round out your set. We support every aspect of your production—from setting up a private, custom interview studio to supplying professional sound and camera operators, as well as providing the right equipment—ensuring your next video production is seamless and successful. We can fly our specialized drones indoors. As a full-service video and photography production corporation, since 1982, Saint Louis Business Portraits has worked with many businesses, marketing firms and creative agencies in the St. Louis area for their marketing photography and video.

314-913-5626

stlouisphotos@gmail.com
Mike Haller

Studio – 4501 Mattis Road St Louis, MO 63128

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How to Prepare for Your Headshot Appointment.

A powerful headshot is more than just a photograph — it’s a strategic marketing asset that tells your story before you even speak. Whether it’s for a corporate website, LinkedIn profile, marketing campaign, or press release, your business portrait must project confidence, credibility, and approachability.

At Saint Louis Business Portraits, we understand that preparation is key to achieving a truly impactful image. In this guide, we’ll share expert advice to help you prepare thoroughly for your headshot appointment, ensuring you present your best self to your clients, colleagues, and audience.

1. Understand the Purpose of Your Headshot

Before stepping in front of the camera, think carefully about how and where your headshot will be used. Different industries and marketing channels may call for slightly different styles. A law firm might prefer formal, traditional portraits, while a tech startup may opt for a more casual, approachable look.

Tip: Clarify your intended use and target audience with your photographer beforehand so we can tailor the lighting, background, and mood to fit your brand image perfectly.

2. Choose the Right Wardrobe

Your outfit plays a crucial role in setting the tone of your headshot.

  • Solid Colors Over Patterns: Solid, neutral, or muted colors generally photograph better and keep the focus on your face.
  • Professional Fit: Wear clothes that fit well without sagging or pulling. Ill-fitting garments can appear sloppy in photos.
  • Industry-Appropriate Attire: Match your outfit to your professional industry standards. Formal businesses may require suits, while creatives might opt for business casual.

Tip: Bring a few options to the studio. Our experienced crew at Saint Louis Business Portraits can help you choose what looks best under professional lighting conditions.

3. Pay Attention to Grooming and Personal Care

In headshots, small details are magnified. Preparing your grooming ahead of time ensures you look polished and professional.

  • Hair: Get a haircut or trim about a week before your appointment to allow for a natural look.
  • Facial Hair: Keep facial hair neatly trimmed or clean-shaven, depending on your style.
  • Makeup: Keep makeup natural and matte to minimize shine. Bring powder for touch-ups.
  • Hands and Nails: If your hands might appear in the photo (crossed arms, holding props), ensure nails are clean and manicured.

Tip: Moisturize your skin well the night before to achieve a healthy, natural glow without looking oily.

4. Get Plenty of Rest

A well-rested face naturally appears more vibrant and alert. Lack of sleep can lead to dark under-eye circles, dull skin, and an overall tired look.

Tip: Try to get a full night’s sleep before your appointment and stay hydrated in the days leading up to your session.

5. Relax and Trust the Process

Feeling nervous before a headshot session is normal, but the best portraits come when you feel comfortable and authentic. Our experienced team will coach you through poses, expressions, and positioning so you don’t need to worry about the technical aspects.

Tip: Practice smiling naturally in front of a mirror the night before. Think about a positive memory or success moment to bring genuine warmth to your expression during the session.

6. Communicate with Your Photographer

A great headshot is the result of collaboration. Don’t hesitate to communicate your preferences, brand guidelines, or insecurities with your photographer. Whether it’s a specific side you favor or a unique brand style you need to match, telling us early ensures we can customize your session perfectly.

Tip: Bring a list of any creative direction or examples you admire. It helps streamline the session and aligns your expectations with the final product.

Why Saint Louis Business Portraits Is the Right Partner for Your Professional Headshots

At Saint Louis Business Portraits, we believe that every business portrait should be a strategic visual asset — crafted with expertise, artistry, and attention to detail. Since 1982, we have been the trusted choice for businesses, marketing firms, and creative agencies throughout the St. Louis area.

We are a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company equipped with the right gear, creative crew, and service experience for truly successful image acquisition. We offer full-service studio and location video and photography, editing, post-production, and even licensed drone pilots for truly unique projects.

Our services can be customized for diverse media requirements, whether for websites, marketing materials, internal communications, or large-scale campaigns. We’re experts at repurposing your photography and video branding to help you gain even greater traction across platforms.

At Saint Louis Business Portraits, we are well-versed in all file types, media styles, and accompanying software, ensuring seamless delivery no matter your project scope. We embrace the latest Artificial Intelligence technologies to enhance every aspect of our media services.

Our private studio lighting and visual setup are perfect for small productions and interview scenes. With a spacious studio that can incorporate custom props and set pieces, and the ability to fly our specialized drones indoors, we provide everything you need to make your next business portrait or video production truly outstanding.

When you partner with Saint Louis Business Portraits, you’re choosing decades of expertise, creative vision, and a full-service team committed to making you look your absolute best.

314-913-5626

stlouisphotos@gmail.com
Mike Haller

Studio – 4501 Mattis Road St Louis, MO 63128

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How to Plan Your Day for Great Event Videos and Photos

When planning for event videos and photos, particularly for corporate events, the key to success lies in preparation. Whether you’re hosting a conference, a company celebration, or a professional seminar, capturing the right moments on video and in photos requires careful planning. Event photography and videography are powerful tools to preserve memories and convey messages, and the best way to ensure your event looks polished and professional is by planning every detail of the day. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan your day for great event videos and photos.

A shot list is an invaluable tool for keeping track of what has been captured and what still needs to be acquired.

1. Define the Purpose of Your Event Media

Before you even pick up the camera or set up your equipment, you need to understand the purpose behind the event media. Are you looking to document the event for internal purposes, like company memories? Or is the event meant for external use, such as marketing materials or press releases? The purpose of the photos and videos will help determine the style, angles, and focal points of your shoot.

2. Identify Key Moments to Capture

Every event has key moments that should be highlighted. Whether it’s the keynote speaker, awards ceremony, or the first toast of a celebration, identifying these moments beforehand will allow the videographer and photographer to be ready for them. Make sure to communicate these moments with your production team so they can prepare accordingly.

3. Plan for the Right Lighting

Lighting is essential for high-quality photography and videography. Poor lighting can result in dark, grainy images or low-quality video footage. At Saint Louis Business Portraits, we understand the importance of lighting and use customized setups to enhance your production. We can create lighting designs to fit various settings, whether in a small room or a large venue. From our private studio setups to on-location productions, we ensure optimal lighting to capture the best images and video.

4. Prepare Your Venue for Filming and Photography

The location of your event is key to the overall look of your photos and videos. If you’re hosting the event at a venue, do a walkthrough with your production team to identify the best locations for filming and photography. If you’re planning to hold an event at your office or another business location, make sure to clean and prepare the space for optimal shots. At Saint Louis Business Portraits, we offer location scouting and can help you set up for the most effective and attractive shots.

5. Coordinate with Your Event Team and Speakers

It’s crucial to work closely with your event planners, speakers, and anyone involved in the event to make sure everyone is on the same page regarding timing and expectations. Whether you’re filming an event panel or taking formal portraits of the event speakers, being aligned with the event timeline will help capture all of the key moments.

6. Create a Shot List

A shot list is an invaluable tool for keeping track of what has been captured and what still needs to be filmed. A professional photographer and videographer will create a list of essential shots based on the event’s schedule and key moments. This includes wide-angle shots of the venue, close-ups of speakers or guests, candid shots of attendees, and other essential angles. The production team will stay organized and ensure they capture everything you need.

7. Plan for Interviews and Testimonials

Many corporate events include interviews with key speakers, panelists, or guests. These interviews are valuable assets for creating content that can be repurposed for marketing materials, social media, or internal use. Make sure to plan for dedicated times to conduct interviews. Saint Louis Business Portraits has the ability to set up custom interview spaces that look professional and are perfect for video. Our private studio setup provides all the lighting, sound, and camera equipment necessary for smooth and high-quality interviews.

8. Repurpose Your Media for Future Use

One of the most beneficial aspects of event photography and video is its long-term potential. Instead of just letting your media sit unused after the event, repurpose your photos and videos for marketing, internal communications, social media, or future events. Saint Louis Business Portraits specializes in repurposing event photography and video branding to gain more traction. We can help you creatively use your media to engage with your target audience across various platforms.

9. Be Ready for Unexpected Moments

Despite careful planning, unexpected moments will happen during your event, and you’ll want to capture them as they unfold. Whether it’s a surprise announcement, a guest interaction, or a spontaneous moment, having an experienced videographer and photographer ready for anything ensures that these impromptu events are documented.

10. Review the Footage

After the event, it’s crucial to review the footage to ensure that everything you wanted was captured. With the right editing and post-production services, you can enhance your photos and videos to produce polished content. At Saint Louis Business Portraits, we offer full-service editing and post-production to ensure your media meets the highest quality standards.

Why Choose Saint Louis Business Portraits for Your Event Photography and Video Production?

Saint Louis Business Portraits is an expert in capturing high-quality event photos and videos. With decades of experience working with businesses, marketing firms, and agencies in the St. Louis area, we are well-equipped to handle all of your corporate media needs. Our team utilizes state-of-the-art equipment and has the creative expertise to make your event look polished and professional.

We offer full-service studio and location video and photography, as well as editing, post-production, and licensed drone services. Our team can customize productions to meet diverse media requirements and has extensive knowledge of all file types and styles of media. Additionally, our private studio lighting and visual setups are perfect for small productions, interviews, and other intimate events.

Since 1982, we’ve worked with companies to provide high-quality photography and videography that is not only professional but adaptable to a wide range of media uses. Whether you need a custom interview setup, sound and camera operators, or specialized drones for unique shots, we have everything you need to make your next event production perfect.

Let us help you elevate your next event with exceptional photography and videography that you can use to engage your audience and repurpose across various channels for maximum impact.

314-913-5626

stlouisphotos@gmail.com