After realizing I worked a little too much last year, I decided to change a few things around for 2024. I've come to enjoy working, but I've also learned not to focus solely on work and neglect other crucial aspects of my life.
Today, it was time to set up my portable headshot studio and practice. The upcoming racing season was already starting to occupy my thoughts more than it probably should.
One of the things that stresses me out a little is being responsible for many precise headshots for the series I work in. It's not that it's complicated, but it does require precision. I want the process to be flawless so that I can concentrate on other matters that may arise in my studio while I'm working.
For instance:
- You only have a few minutes to complete this before these drivers need to be somewhere else.
- The place you requested for your studio is occupied, so we've arranged a spot for you outside.
- You're going to Photoshop this to make me look good, right?
My goal when setting up a studio is that, when I press the button, everything is lit exactly as it should be. It's like the assembly line at Coca-Cola, where the cap is screwed on the next bottle, working perfectly, as it has millions of times.
I ensure this part is perfect because it's within my control, allowing me to focus on my work. Afterward, it becomes a dance between me and whomever steps in front of my lens. That's what makes each photo unique. That's what imbues each expression with meaning, and that's what transforms every moment into an opportunity to create a meaningful photograph.
Interestingly, my subjects rarely notice this. Everything in the picture revolves around them. I'm not in the picture, and after the setup, I have minimal control over the basics. That's okay; it was part of my plan from the beginning.
For the next 10-15 seconds, it's all about me. I scrutinize for any imperfections or issues. There could be something in their smile, a misaligned sponsor patch, or, worse, the wrong sponsor. I make minor hair adjustments and inquire about their confidence in wearing glasses for the photo. I may even suggest a quick hair touch-up or encourage them to remove their ballcap.
Finally, it's time for the show. I've had a brief moment to establish some rapport, although it's usually not much. It's natural for people to feel nervous when posing for pictures, and that's where my role comes in. I need a picture of you, and you want a picture of yourself, but all I can see is what you think you want me to capture.
That's when we both need to let go of our thoughts about the camera, lights, fear, pressure, and all other distractions in this fragile moment. I do my best to ignite that spark in your eyes and capture the world-brightening smile before I press the shutter button.