Know the goal: Are you there to (1) book clients, (2) build partnerships, or (3) get content? Pick one primary goal.
Arrive early (15–30 min): You’ll get clean shots of the space, signage, sponsors, and “fresh” guests before it gets crowded.
Have a simple “offer”:
Photo: “2-minute LinkedIn headshot in perfect light.”
Video: “10-second ‘What you do + who you help’ clip.”
Bring a fast setup: One light, one modifier, one lens. Don’t overcomplicate it.
Wide room opener (shows scale)
Step-and-repeat / signage (brands love this)
Handshake + smiles (connection)
Speaker + audience reaction (credibility)
Candids at the bar / mingling (energy)
Hero portraits (2–3 people, clean light)
Find a “good wall” (neutral background) and make it your portrait spot.
If using flash: bounce it (ceiling/wall) for softer luxury light.
If no bounce: keep flash off-axis (small softbox or bounce card).
Photo (flash): 1/200, f/2.8–4, ISO 400–1600
Photo (no flash): f/1.8–2.8, 1/200+, ISO 1600–6400
(Keep shutter fast enough to avoid motion blur.)
Think “warm confidence,” not “big smile.”
Squint slightly (tiny “smize” = stronger eyes, less “deer in headlights”).
Tongue to roof of mouth (tightens jaw/neck subtly).
Blink, then open right before the shot (fresh eyes).
Chin slightly forward + down (sharp jawline, no double-chin).
Relax the shoulders (drop them 1 inch—instant confidence).
Eyes to the lens, not the screen (stronger connection).
Micro-smile (soft mouth, slight cheek lift—friendly, not forced).
Lean in a touch from the waist (engaged posture).
Angle the body 20–30° (more flattering than straight-on).
Hands if visible: light touch on lapel/jacket, no clenched fists.
Breathe out before the shutter (reduces tension in face/neck).
