Headshots for Branding/Website Upgrade
We often take manufacturing for granted – we buy something, it’s delivered, and it works (most of the time!). But today’s manufacturing processes are incredibly complex, involving the orchestration of raw materials, processes, inspection/quality control, and so on.
Tulip is likely a company you haven’t heard of, unless you’re in manufacturing. They provide a cloud-based platform to digitally connect discrete manufacturing processes, guide operators, track production, and gain a real-time, holistic view of manufacturing operations.
They were interested in new headshots for their website that reflects their brand and their target audience/customers. Quality is an essential ingredient for manufacturers, and so it’s important that their headshots show attention to detail, as well as a high level of quality. Their staff includes software engineers, scientists, sales/marketing/finance, and manufacturing industry veterans in a culture that emphasizes work/life balance, a passion for their work, and diversity. It’s important their headshots reflect not only the expertise of their staff, but their culture as well.
Because of the level of quality and need for brand oriented images, creating headshots for a corporate website is a different process than a photo booth at a trade show, or where you’re concerned more about volume. Many people are uncomfortable being in front of a camera, and not only require more direction from the photographer, but also simply need a bit more time to adjust, relax – and the photographer also needs some time to “read” each person, and adjust his/her approach to best suit that person’s level of comfort. It’s often said we’re 80% psychologists/20% technicians.
It’s also important for the photographer to have a process that supports a wide variety of not just people’s physical features, but emotional states as well. I’ve found that making the process one of collaboration, feedback, support, and a learning experience works well.
The people at Tulip were great to work with, and it’s very clear they are passionate and confident in how they approach their work, and that translated into their work in front of the camera. Looking at their headshots, you can feel the energy – and as a potential customer, partner, or candidate (they’re hiring!), you feel like you’d like to meet and work with them. Mission accomplished!
