Unlocking Local SEO Power: The New "Add Update" Feature on Google My Business
In the landscape of digital marketing, one often-overlooked SEO tool holds immense power for businesses aiming to dominate local search results: Google My Business (GMB). We all know that an SEO optimized website is extremely important, but local map and search results on Google are becoming increasingly vital. Despite their importance, many businesses neglect to harness their full potential, missing out on critical tools for improving their local SEO and connecting with potential customers.
#SEO #DigitalMarketing #GoogleMyBusiness #GoogleMaps #LocalSEO #SEOTips
In the landscape of digital marketing, one often-overlooked SEO tool holds immense power for businesses aiming to dominate local search results: Google My Business (GMB). We all know that an SEO optimized website is extremely important, but local map and search results on Google are becoming increasingly vital. Despite their importance, many businesses neglect to harness their full potential, missing out on critical tools for improving their local SEO and connecting with potential customers.
The Crucial Role of Google My Business
Want your company to rank higher in local Google search results? Claiming, optimizing, and consistently developing your Google My Business Profile is one of the most crucial things you can do for visibility. GMB gives you access to local customers and drives engagement and interest. If you want Google to take your business seriously and outrank your competitors in local search results, investing in GMB profile optimization is a must.
The New "Add Update" Feature is a Game-Changer
Recently, Google rolled out a game-changing feature on GMB: the "add update" option. This feature transforms your GMB profile into a mini-blog, allowing businesses to regularly share updates, stories, and offers directly on their listing. Here's why this feature is a game-changer for local SEO:
How to find the “Add update” feature on your Google My Business Profile Listing
Storytelling Opportunity: The "add update" feature isn't just about posting updates; it's about storytelling. Businesses can now share behind-the-scenes glimpses, success stories, customer testimonials, and industry insights, creating a compelling narrative that resonates with potential customers. Although there isn’t much space for text, use the opportunity to organically integrate keywords. Visuals are at the play a pivotal role in captivating your audience and telling compelling stories and Google places great emphasis on this.
Connection Building: By sharing authentic and engaging content, businesses can forge deeper connections with their audience. This humanizes the brand, fosters trust, and encourages customer loyalty. Use the power of visuals to tell captivating stories about your business, sharing behind-the-scenes moments, client interactions, and testimonials made into graphics. Allowing your audience to get to know you through visuals allows you to increase your likeability and trust factors.
Visibility and Ranking Boost: Google values fresh and relevant content and will consider a GMB profile that consistently shows up to be one of greater authority.
How to Rank on Google Maps
We’ve all seen search results on Google Maps show up alongside website results. It’s no secret that Google is changing the way we find local businesses. Google often adds “near me” suggestions to the search user, helps Google know that search user’s intent. They want to find a business (like yours!) that is in their local area to help them solve their problem.
To get your Google My Business profile to rank when people near you search for your products or services, it’s important to understand the way Google’s Local SEO algorithm works.
According to Google, the three main local ranking factors are: Distance, Relevance, and Prominence.
You may not be able to control close you are to the search user, but you can absolutely improve your Relevance and Prominence with regular updates.
Search Relevance is all about how closely you are matching the searcher’s query. Can you solve their problem, and do your updates show them how you are able to do that? Prominence is about how well liked and trusted your business is. With the add update feature, demonstrate your likeability, creating familiarity with photos of you, your employees, and your office. Show social proof by sharing testimonials and client reviews.
Leveraging the Power of "Add Update" for Business Growth
To get the most out of the "add update" feature and enhance your local SEO strategy consider implementing:
Consistent, Short, and Impactful Updates: Posting once or twice a week is optimal for maintaining engagement. Keep your posts short, keyword rich, with concise captions that complement your visuals and convey your message effectively. Focus on delivering content that resonates with your audience and encourages them to engage with your services. Be sure to mention your local area to show up in relevant local map packs.
Keyword Optimization: Incorporate relevant keywords and location-specific phrases in your updates to improve visibility for local searches, while highlighting your expertise and trustworthiness.
Visual Appeal: Use high-quality images and videos to make your updates visually appealing and attention-grabbing. Hire a local professional photographer so your audience knows that you and your business are committed to a high level of quality and professionalism. Ask your photographer to cross-promote your business!
Call-to-Action (CTA): Make it easy for potential clients to connect with you directly from your GMB profile. Include clear CTAs in your updates to encourage actions such as visiting your website, contacting you, or making a purchase. The “Add Update” has many different Calls-to-Action to choose from. Help your audience take that all-important next step and have them reach you directly.
Respond: Respond promptly to reviews, messages, and comments to demonstrate your commitment to customer satisfaction.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the "add update" feature on Google My Business is a game-changer for businesses serious about dominating local search results and connecting with their target audience. By embracing this feature and crafting compelling updates with professional visual content, businesses can strengthen their online presence, improve rankings, and attract new customers. Don't overlook the power of GMB in your local SEO strategy—it's the key to unlocking success in the digital age.
Capturing Moments of Influence: Insights from the US India Business Council - US Chamber of Commerce Meetings in St. Louis
Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft's presence added gravitas to the event, highlighting the importance of international business relations and India-US relations.
#eventphotography #chamberofcommerce #stlouisbusiness #businessleadership
I had the honor of being part of a prestigious event that brought together some of the most influential figures in business and politics in St. Louis this past week. The US India Business Council meetings were a gathering of minds that aimed to strengthen relationships and create new opportunities for collaboration between the two countries.
One of the highlights was the luncheon at the Ritz Carlton, where the US Chamber of Commerce convened with business leaders from St. Louis. This gathering served as a platform for insightful discussions on Missouri governance and politics, strategic collaborations among Missouri business leaders, and the forging of new partnerships.
Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft's presence added gravitas to the event, highlighting the importance of international business relations and India-US relations.
Missouri Secretary of State John R. (Jay) Ashcroft addresses the concerns of business leaders in St. Louis
Rhonda Hamm-Niebruegge, Director of St. Louis Lambert International Airport, was also in attendance, bringing her wealth of experience in aviation management to the discussions. She has been at the helm of STL since January 2010, overseeing its role as the primary air carrier facility for the St. Louis region, serving more than 14.7 million passengers annually.
My goal as a corporate event photographer was to not only document the event but to also capture the emotions and interactions that were unfolding before me. More than just taking pictures, my role was about telling a story and immortalizing important moments. Challenges were inevitable, as the event was fast-paced and dynamic. I had to be quick on my feet, constantly adjusting my settings to ensure that each shot was perfect. However, these challenges only fueled my passion for photography, pushing me to strive for excellence.
As the day turned to evening and the guests moved to The Four Seasons for dinner, I knew that I had a unique opportunity to capture the magic of the event in a different light. The ambiance was elegant and sophisticated, with candles flickering and glasses clinking as toasts were made.
The evening continued with a dinner at The Four Seasons, where conversations delved deeper into economic opportunities, global partnerships, and the future of commerce between the US and India. Ambassador Atul Keshap led engaging discussions that explored avenues for growth and cooperation, emphasizing the role of diplomacy in fostering business ties.
Vivek Malek, State Treasurer of Missouri and a prominent figure in Missouri politics and business, sharing his inspiring vision and immigrant experience.
Looking back on the experience, I am filled with gratitude for being able to be a part of such a significant event. The connections made, the conversations had, and the moments captured will stay with me for a lifetime. Corporate event photography has a way of bringing people together, forging alliances, and creating lasting impressions. I am honored to have played a small role in this grand scheme of things, and I look forward to the next opportunity to capture moments that matter.
Architectural Inspiration: Melissa's Stunning St. Louis Portrait Session
Working with Melissa was a reminder of the power of photography to capture not just images, but emotions and memories. Through her portraits, we were able to blend her love for interior design, architectural beauty, and artistic expression into a series of photos that truly captured her essence.
Natural Light Portrait at Pagoda Circle, Forest Park #stlouis #portraitphotography #architecture #forestpark #stlouisphotolocations
Working alongside Melissa to craft her portrait photographs was an absolute delight. As an interior designer with a deep passion for classic St. Louis architecture, Melissa's love for beautiful aesthetics and pleasing compositions was truly inspiring.
We decided on a few great locations in St. Louis’s iconic Forest Park, including the iconic Muny, the picturesque Pagoda Circle, and the stunning classic Vandeventer Gates. Each spot provided a unique backdrop that perfectly complemented Melissa's sophisticated style and love for elegant design.
Natural Light Portrait at The Muny, Forest Park #leadinglines #stlouis #portraitphotography #architecture #forestpark #stlouisphotolocations
Natural Light Portrait at The Muny, Forest Park #leadinglines #stlouis #portraitphotography #architecture #forestpark #stlouisphotolocations
One of the most exciting parts of our collaboration was when Melissa mentioned that she planned to have one of the portraits painted by an oil painter. The thought of our work together being transformed into a timeless piece of art was truly humbling, and I can't wait to see the final result!
Working with Melissa was a reminder of the power of photography to capture not just images, but emotions and memories. Through her portraits, we were able to blend her love for interior design, architectural beauty, and artistic expression into a series of photos that truly captured her essence.
It's moments like these that remind me why I love what I do - the ability to create something truly special and meaningful with each client I work with. Melissa's portraits will always hold a special place in my heart, as a reminder of the beauty that can be found in the intersection of passion, creativity, and photography.
The Buyer’s Journey: Building Your Know, Like, Trust, and Delight Factors
"The Buyer’s Journey" isn't just a roadmap—it's a narrative of connection, trust, and satisfaction. By optimizing each phase with personalized content, including professional photography and compelling storytelling, you craft an experience that resonates with your audience, fosters loyalty, and drives continued success for your business.
#branding #marketing #businessphotography
Introduction
Marketers use a term called "The Buyer’s Journey" to model how customers make purchasing decisions.
Why is the Buyer's Journey important? As a marketer, it helps you to understand your prospect and look for new ways to improve your marketing.
When a prospective client is considering your company, your goal is to help them experience four critical phases: KNOW, LIKE, TRUST, and DELIGHT. With an understanding of these stages, marketers can better empathize with their prospects and refine their marketing strategies for optimal results.
Know: Creating Awareness
If potential customers are unaware of your existence and the solutions you provide, the challenge is to stand out amidst the noise, capture attention, and ignite curiosity.
Create engaging social media posts that spark curiosity and drive traffic.
Conduct market research to understand your audience's pain points and tailor your messaging to meet their needs.
“Don’t Explain, Show.” Professional photography is a powerful tool that communicates in seconds. This visual storytelling not only creates an initial spark of awareness but also fosters a connection and trust with your audience.
Show your team: Let people see who they might work with, from the receptionist and billing team to the sales people, and key leadership. This helps create a personal connection. If you are a marketer, you know that when it comes to sales, it's still about personal relationships.
Share your workspace: What does it look like to work with you? Even if it's a normal office to you, your prospects will feel more familiar with your company by having a glimpse inside your office.
Display what you offer: Show meetings, presentations, and behind-the-scenes work, to explain your services better.
Like: Establishing Differentiation
As you progress into the "Like" phase, you step into the spotlight where potential customers are curious to learn more. However, at this stage, they're also evaluating your competitors. This phase is about differentiation—showcasing why you're not just another option but truly the best choice.
What is your “Unique Selling Point” (USP)? Craft a narrative that highlights your unique strengths, value proposition, and resonates with your audience. This narrative helps create a preference for your brand and sets you apart from the competition.
Highlight what makes you unique: Show why customers should choose you over others by focusing on your special qualities. Is it your product, your service, or your experience? Demonstrate this in your visuals.
Show how it's like to work with you: Are you friendly, detail-oriented, or collaborative? Show that in your images to reinforce your brand.
Craft compelling storytelling content that showcases your brand's personality and values.
Offer personalized experiences or incentives to encourage engagement and loyalty
Trust: Building Credibility
Moving into the "Trust" phase, the focus shifts to fostering trust and confidence that your company will deliver. Your audience likes what they see, but they need assurance and credibility before committing.
Who else have you worked with? Share testimonials, success stories, and demonstrate authority and expertise to instill confidence in your ability to deliver on promises.
Nurture relationships and showcase a track record of customer satisfaction, reinforcing the trust established in previous phases.
Showcase industry certifications, awards, or partnerships to demonstrate expertise and reliability.
Offer guarantees or warranties to alleviate risk and increase confidence in purchase decisions.
Delight: Ensuring Satisfaction
The final, but ongoing phase of the journey is the "Delight" phase, where the goal is to ensure satisfaction and inspire loyalty. Going above and beyond to exceed expectations, creating unexpected moments of delight, and reinforcing the value you’ve provided is key. This final phase is really a continual phase, one that transforms customers into loyal brand ambassadors who not only return but also want to promote your company to others, driving sustained success.
Implement post-purchase surveys or feedback mechanisms to gather insights and improve the customer experience.
Surprise and delight customers with exclusive offers, personalized recommendations, or loyalty rewards.
Foster community engagement through user-generated content, forums, or events. Post collaboratively about your work on LinkedIn.
Continuously innovate and update your offerings to exceed expectations and stay ahead of competitors.
Encourage satisfied customers to share their experiences on social media or refer others to your brand.
Conclusion
"The Buyer’s Journey" isn't just a roadmap—it's a narrative of connection, trust, and satisfaction. By optimizing each phase with personalized content, including professional photography and compelling storytelling, you craft an experience that resonates with your audience, fosters loyalty, and drives continued success for your business.
Creating your own library of photographs that showcase your team in their real working environment can go a long way in developing long-lasting business relationships.
Targeting both logical and emotional aspects is crucial, but if we only focus on appealing to the "logical side" of our audience's brain, our message may lack the emotional connection needed to drive people to take action.
Portrait of an Artist: Professional Photography for Violinist and Suzuki Teacher Trainer Susan McDonald
Professional photography for Susan McDonald was a collaborative journey that was about more than capturing pretty photos: it was about unraveling the layers of a talented musician, violinist, and experienced pedagogue.
I recently had the pleasure of working with Susan McDonald, an incredibly talented violinist, teacher, and passionate Suzuki teacher trainer.
It was a collaborative journey that was about more than capturing pretty photos: it was about unraveling the layers of a talented musician, violinist, and experienced pedagogue.
Artist Portrait of Susan McDonald, photo by Henry David Photography
Photoshoot Planning
Although initially camera shy, Susan's innate love for music became the focal point of our work together.
When it comes to artist profiles and headshots, capturing the essence of the individual is crucial. This was Susan’s first professional photoshoot and she came in feeling more than a little nervous.
Feeling apprehensive about having your photos taken is completely normal. Part of my job as a professional photographer is to help my clients get feeling comfortable before we start taking photos.
Getting to know each other as fellow artists helped Susan relax, and our love for the musical arts set the tone for a relaxed photoshoot. This process started even before we met in the studio. Susan is a great communicator, and after she reached out by email we started to discuss what she was hoping to get out of the session.
She showed me references of musician portraits she liked, sent me a few selfies, and shared with me the headshots she was currently using. I appreciated that she was willing to openly share her insecurities and concerns, because it allowed us to be mindful of these aspects as we planned our photoshoot.
We spoke in detail on how we could improve upon her previous headshots at her session, what she could expect from the editing process that would come after the photoshoot, and how we would best collaboratively execute on her vision, going from concept, to studio, and finally into post-production.
Professional Hair & Makeup
Many people worry about looking too glamorous or not like themselves when they hire a professional makeup artist, and rightly so! Finding a balance between looking your best and still looking like you is really important for professional headshots. It's okay to look a better than usual, but it's not good if you look completely different.
Knowing Susan had this concern, I suggested she work with a makeup artist who understands the importance of keeping things looking authentic.
That's when Alexis B from AB Beauty STL came in. She did a great job with Susan's makeup and hair, making sure it looked just right and stayed true to Susan's genuine self.
Makeup Artist and Stylist Alexis B of AB Beauty STL, putting the final touches on Susan’s hair
Studio Photography
Moving in the studio, we took the time to work together, ensuring that every detail was perfect. We knew how important it was to create timeless images that Susan could use to promote herself as a musician and music educator.
Musician photography requires a unique approach. It's about capturing the artist's passion and talent in a visual medium. As a photographer, my goal was to showcase Susan's skills and dedication to her craft through the images we created together. As a photographer with a classical music background myself, I understood her audience and the messaging that would be resonate best with them.
Susan wanted to be sure we’d capture a range of photos and poses for diverse use cases. Our must-have list included a professional headshot, shots with and without the violin, a performance snapshot, and a full-body shot. We also wanted to capture a variety of vibrant outfit options.
“The collaborative conversation Susan and I shared allowed me to have a thorough understanding of her vision and helped us craft great results.”
Editing and Retouching
Reviewing Susan’s photos, I selected the shots that had the best expressions, those with a sparkle and drama that jumped off the screen and communicated something emotional with the viewer. I wanted to pick only the photos that would leave a lasting impression. A great photo isn’t just about high resolution and good lighting, it needs to connect with the viewer and tell a story about the subject.
Susan was delighted with her photos, even with out any editing. She then chose her favorite shots from among her proofing gallery and I went to work on editing.
We went back and forth with a few rounds of editing until we got each image perfect.
Communication is key: The collaborative conversation Susan and I shared allowed me to have a thorough understanding of her vision and helped us craft great results.
Our multiple rounds of editing allowed us to retouch the photographs to perfection, enhancing her features while keeping the authenticity intact.
Working with Susan McDonald was very artistically rewarding: we were able to capture her natural radiance and essence as a musician and create captivating, timeless images that will undoubtedly help her in her career as a violinist, teacher, and Suzuki teacher trainer.
Investing in professional photography is investing in your future as an artist. A well-crafted image has the power to convey your artistry and professionalism before you even step foot on stage. Take the time to find a photographer who can help bring your vision to life and create compelling images that represent you and your talent.
ERAS Medical Residency Headshots: Requirements and Pro Tips for Success
When Amelia Mangan, a dedicated 4th-year medical student at Saint Louis University, approached me for assistance with her ERAS® headshots, she recognized the importance of a successful headshot in giving her an edge with her Plastic Surgery residency application.
She was explicitly told that if there were two equally qualified candidates, the quality of the headshot would be the determining factor in selecting the winning candidate.
ERAS® Headshot Photos for Medical Residency Applicants
Technical Requirements:
According to ERAS® your photo file needs to be no larger than 150kb, with dimensions of 2.5 inches x 3.5 inches, and a resolution of 150dpi.
It's essential that the image is a recent, full-color photograph snapped within the last six months. The head and shoulders should be in the frame with a light gray or plain white or and uploaded in JPEG format.
Why is it important to get your ERAS® photo correct?
ERAS® Headshot for Medical Residency Applicant
When Amelia Mangan, a dedicated 4th-year medical student at Saint Louis University, approached me for assistance with her ERAS® headshots, she recognized the importance of a successful headshot in giving her an edge with her Plastic Surgery residency application.
She was explicitly told that if there were two equally qualified candidates, the quality of the headshot would be the determining factor in selecting the winning candidate.
Understanding that her headshot could have considerable influence over the evaluation of her applications, she sought out professional assistance to get the highest quality results.
To set herself apart from the competition, she aimed for a headshot that not only captured her unique personality but also radiated professionalism and poise.
When Is the Best Time to Take your Medical Residency Headshot?
Residency programs review applications in October, it’s best that you take your ERAS® photos well in advance of the deadline.
Enlisting Professional Help
To craft a successful ERAS® headshot, it’s important to enlist the help of a professional photographer. Look for a headshot photographer with the experience, equipment and skills needed to guarantee a high-quality image that's perfectly lit and in sharp focus. Come to their studio dressed professionally with a warm and inviting smile, and you will be sure to leave a positive impression on residency program directors.
If you are in the St. Louis area, contact Henry David Photography to schedule your ERAS® headshot session.
Should I have my ERAS® photo retouched?
Absolutely. Retouching is crucial to any successful headshot, as long as it is not overdone. ERAS® encourages that your headshot photo be professionally retouched, as it shows that you take your presentation seriously. Editing and retouching refines your presentation by addressing common touch-ups, including but not limited to: blemish removal, skin smoothing, removing flyaway hairs, color correction, teeth whitening, and more.
Njabulo Blom's Journey into Modeling
Njabulo’s natural talent in front of the camera shined through, and he effortlessly showcased his ability to transition from athlete to model. I believe he has a promising future in both the worlds of modeling and professional soccer.
Njabulo Blom is a gifted professional soccer player for St. Louis City SC who recently reached out to me because he wanted to explore modeling and developing his portfolio to submit to modeling agencies.
Despite having no previous experience, we planned a fashion photoshoot that would blend his background as a professional athlete with fashion elements from his home country of South Africa.
During the shoot, we focused on capturing Njabulo's unique fashion sense and and personality. He brought clothing and accessories that represented his South African heritage, adding an authentic touch to the images. We captured a clean fashion look as well as more casual, street style portraits.
Njabulo’s natural talent in front of the camera shined through, and he effortlessly showcased his ability to transition from athlete to model. I believe he has a promising future in both the worlds of modeling and professional soccer.
Studio Photography for Modeling Agencies
Studio photoshoots are always the best way to start a modeling portfolio. The controlled environment allowed us to focus on creating stunning visuals without the distractions that come with natural light shoots. The studio lighting backdrops all played a large part in bringing our vision to life with clean, crisp images, ready for him to submit to modeling agencies.
Overall, this photoshoot was a resounding success. I look forward to seeing the exciting trajectory of his career, which promises to shine brightly on both the soccer field and in the world of modeling.
Rebranding with Golden Hour Headshots: How to use natural lighting to change your visual messaging
Benjamin wanted to convey a more approachable image to his audience. That's where we stepped in to help transform his visual messaging.
Personal branding is essential in today's competitive world, regardless of your profession. Taking the time to reassess your visual messaging can lead to a more approachable and authentic personal brand.
One recent project involved working with Benjamin P. Davis, Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of African American Studies at Saint Louis University and author of numerous books and scholarly works in political philosophy.
Known for his willingness to tackle polarizing subjects, Benjamin wanted to convey a more approachable image to his audience. That's where we stepped in to help transform his visual messaging.
During the rebranding session, we focused on capturing a warm and inviting first impression. A key aspect of this process was the headshot. Benjamin needed a professional photograph that would accurately represent him to potential readers, students, and colleagues. We wanted to showcase his expertise and approachable personality.
Through the use of simple natural lighting techniques, we were able to capture Benjamin's genuine smile and friendly demeanor, creating headshots that exude approachability, while still emphasizing his professional background and status in the academic world.
The end result of the rebranding session was a collection of photos that captured Benjamin's essence as a scholar and writer. The images conveyed a warm and inviting feeling, while still maintaining a professional tone. Benjamin now had a visual presence that would help him connect with his audience and make a strong first impression.
Golden Hour Backlighting
Photographers love to shoot at Golden Hour, and for good reason. The light available an hour before the sun sets allows for artistic expression and evocative storytelling that hints at dreaminess and mystery.
Benjamin wanted a photo option with a blurred out background, and in particular, the kind of photo that had "bokeh bubbles." These beautiful and cinematic circles of light are created by using a shallow depth of field. To get the maximum effect, we held our photoshoot at Golden Hour, about an hour before sunset.
The filtered light through the trees gave us not only the perfect background, but also added a flattering rim light that outlines and separates our subject from the dreamy background.
Golden Hour Portrait by Henry David Photography
Location Spotlight:
Washington University in St. Louis
Washington University in St. Louis offers an ideal portrait photo location for academics and professionals. The beautiful Danforth campus and its iconic Brookings Hall exudes of history, grandeur and prestige, creating a truly collegiate Ivy League aesthetic. The classic architecture adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to the event, with leading lines that make for naturally captivating framing of the subject.
A Medium Format Film Fashion Shoot with the Pentax 6x7, SMC Takumar 105mm F/2.4, and Kodak Tri-X 400 Film
The process of shooting film slows me down in the best possible way, making me think more about composition, expression, and making each image count.
It may not have the sharpness of digital, but for painterly portraiture, film is able to achieve a look that can take a lot of processing and editing to get out of a digital image.
Pentax 6x7, Takumar 105mm F/2.4 shot wide open. Model: McKenna Vereeke
The Camera
After some months of shooting on digital only, I was excited to bring out my beloved Pentax 6x7 again, this time for a fashion and beauty studio shoot with the very talented McKenna Vereeke (West Model Agency).
I started out in digital photography and I’m just now discovering the world of film photography. For someone who has only used DSLRs, the Pentax 6x7 offers a body style that is familiar, unlike a Hasselblad medium format camera or a Twin Lens Reflex camera like the Rolleiflex. The Pentax 6x7 is built like a tank, it’s easy to operate, and the built in light meter is very accurate.
The Lens
The Pentax Super Multi Coated Takumar 105mm F/2.4 is one of the most sought after medium format lenses. A perfect focal length for portraits, it’s a legendary lens that is sharp (enough) wide open with exceptionally beautiful rendering. Yes, it can be a challenge to nail focus at at F/2.4 but it’s worth taking the time to try! I highly recommend mounting the camera on a tripod.
The Film Stock
Kodak Tri-X is quickly becoming my favorite film stock. It is high contrast, but not in a way that overpowers the microcontrast transitions between highlights and shadows. The rendering is painterly, with deep shadows and blacks that have an dark, syrupy richness that I’ve found hard to achieve with other film stocks.
At the start of this photoshoot I was finishing off a roll of Ilford HP5 400 - here’s that image:
Pentax 6x7, Takumar 105mm F/2.4 shot wide open with Ilford HP5 400.
Comparing the Ilford HP5 look to Kodak Tri-X, you can see a big difference in the rendering:
Pentax 6x7, Takumar 105mm F/2.4 shot wide open with Kodak Tri-X 400.
Film vs. Digital
The process of shooting film slows me down in the best possible way, making me think more about composition, expression, and making each image count.
It may not have the sharpness of digital, but for painterly portraiture, film is able to achieve a look that can take a lot of processing and editing to get out of a digital image.
Film photos have an organic bloom to the highlights, giving a beautiful glow not unlike a Pro Mist filter on a modern lens.
Digital - Fujifilm XT4 with Fujifilm XF33mm F/1.4 shot wide open
Pentax 6x7, Takumar 105mm F/2.4 shot wide open with Kodak Tri-X 400.
Here are a few more film shots from our session:
Thank you for reading.
What is your favorite medium format camera, lens, and film stock combination?
Please share your thoughts!
How does Lensa AI work? Why do people have serious concerns
It’s taken social media by storm. No doubt you’ve seen the incredibly vibrant and detailed artwork of your friends, flooding your feeds. Millions of people downloaded the app in the first week it became available, and just by looking at the eye-catching images, it’s no surprise why this new technology has gained so much popularity in such a short period of time.
Lensa AI, Stable Diffusion, and TrueDepth Technology
It’s taken social media by storm. No doubt you’ve seen the incredibly vibrant and detailed artwork of your friends, flooding your feeds. Millions of people downloaded the app in the first week it became available, and just by looking at the eye-catching images, it’s no surprise why this new technology has gained so much popularity in such a short period of time.
Lensa is a product of the US based Prisma Labs, and the pictures you’ve seen on social media are a result of the “Magic Avatar” functionality inside the app.
At its core, the app’s artificial intelligence system employs a recombinatory approach known as “Stable Diffusion.” Scraping billions of images across the internet to train algorithm’s neural network.
This data set is then combined with TrueDepth API technology, which analyzes the user-provided photos ("face data"), projecting thousands of points on to the face and creating a “depth map” to then, according to the developers, “train our algorithms to perform better and show you better results."
You may already be familiar with this technology, since it is the engine behind Face ID, the system that detects, recognizes and matches your face to the registered facial data and unlocks your Apple device.
Digital artists, intellectual property, and privacy concerns
Is there a price to paid for this technology? Even though the digital artwork which the artificial intelligence is trained on is publicly available on the internet, many artists say that these images are copyrighted and that the app is allegedly violating their copyright by using their intellectual property without permission, credit, or compensation.
Furthermore, for the user of the app, there are concerns about the ownership of this image and what that means for your privacy:
The perpetual ownership of this information has many people concerned about data security.
Although the terms and conditions say that users “retain all rights in and to your user content," using the app gives them “perpetual, revocable, nonexclusive, royalty-free, worldwide, fully-paid, transferable, sub-licensable license to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, translate, create derivative works.”
To assuage users, the company has recently stated on Twitter that “As soon as the avatars are generated, the user’s photos and the associated model are erased permanently from our servers."
What are your thoughts about this new extremely popular visual technology?
Apple iPhone 13 and 14 Cinematic Mode Explained
The neat thing about the Cinematic Mode effect is that if you have multiple subjects, the iPhone camera will figure out which subject you want to have in focus, and seamlessly shift focus between your subjects. That’s a trick that usually requires an on set “focus puller” to manually monitor and adjust in real-time. With the iPhone Cinematic Mode, simply re-center the camera towards the subject you want to have in focus, or have them walk into the frame, and the camera will smoothly pull focus to the new subject, making them sharp and blurring out the background.
If you’ve recently picked up an Apple iPhone 13 or 14, you may have noticed a new Cinematic Mode which allows you to record videos with automatic focus racking and blurred backgrounds.
How does Cinematic mode work?
“With Cinematic mode, your iPhone camera can record videos with a shallow depth of field and add beautiful focus transitions for a cinema-grade look... Cinematic mode applies a depth-of-field effect that keeps the subject of your video sharp while creating a beautifully blurred foreground and background. iPhone automatically identifies the subject of the video and keeps it in focus throughout the recording; if a new subject is identified, iPhone automatically transitions the point of focus. You can also manually adjust the point of focus while you record, or change it later in the Photos app. Cinematic mode is available on all iPhone 13 models and iPhone 14 models.”
What is the depth-of-field effect?
In photography and cinematography, depth of field is the distance between the nearest and farthest objects in a scene that appear in sharp focus. A shallow depth of field means that only a small part of the scene is in focus, while a deep depth of field means that most or all of the scene is in focus. Depth of field is controlled by the aperture of the lens, which determines how much light is let in and how much of the scene is in focus.
What Apple is referring to as a depth-of-field effect is the blur or soft “bokeh,” in stark contrast to the sharpness of the subject.
“Bokeh balls,” soft blurring of the background from the depth-of-field effect
The neat thing about the Cinematic Mode effect is that if you have multiple subjects, the iPhone camera will figure out which subject you want to have in focus, and seamlessly shift focus between your subjects. That’s a trick that usually requires an on set “focus puller” to manually monitor and adjust in real-time. With the iPhone Cinematic Mode, simply re-center the camera towards the subject you want to have in focus, or have them walk into the frame, and the camera will smoothly pull focus to the new subject, making them sharp and blurring out the background.
Will my videos really look like a film just by using Cinematic Mode?
While filmmakers and photographers often do make use of shallow depth of field, it’s not the only technique that can make a video or photo look cinematic.
There are many factors that can make a video look cinematic. Some of these include:
The use of a wide-angle lens to capture a scene, which can give the image a more expansive and immersive feel.
Careful composition of the shots, with the use of techniques such as the rule of thirds or leading lines to create a sense of depth and movement within the frame.
The use of color grading to create a specific visual aesthetic, such as a cool blue tone for a dramatic scene or a warm golden hue for a romantic one.
The use of creative lighting techniques, such as backlighting or rim lighting, to add depth and dimension to the images.
The use of visual effects and other post-production techniques to enhance the overall look and feel of the video.
Overall, achieving a cinematic look often involves a combination of these and other techniques, as well as a strong artistic vision and attention to detail.
Studio Lighting for Portrait Photography: Mastering the Single Light
The best way to learn about lighting is to experiment with a single light and learn how to use it effectively.
In this article we will discuss how to study light, reverse engineer lighting setups, and how to vary a single light source to create a wide range of looks.
Photography is all about lighting.
Lighting is an important aspect of portrait photography because it helps to create a mood and bring out the best features of the subject. Different lighting techniques can be used to flatter the subject and create a desired effect.
For example, using soft, diffused light can help to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, while using hard light can create a more dramatic and intense effect. Good lighting can also help to reduce the appearance of blemishes and imperfections, and bring out the natural beauty of the subject.
Additionally, lighting can help to set the tone of the photograph and convey a specific message or emotion.
Natural vs. Studio Light
When we shoot portraits outdoors without the use of flash, we are only able to use available light.
Natural light can be very beautiful and effective, and some forms of natural light are very difficult to recreate in the studio.
However, if we want to have ultimate control over what a portrait communicates, it’s imperative that we master studio lighting.
Start with a Single Light
As a beginner photographer, the best way to learn about lighting is to experiment with a single light and learn how to use it effectively.
In the fashion photography world, using a single light is standard. That’s right - most of the magazine covers you’ve seen use just a single key light.
In this article we will discuss how to study light, reverse engineer lighting setups, and how to vary a single light source to create a wide range of looks.
Study the reflection in the eyes
We can reverse engineer the lighting just by looking at the reflection in the eyes. Let’s learn how to recreate most any lighting setup just by looking at the resulting photo.
The reflection made in the eyes (known as a “catch light”) of the subject gives us a lot of information about what lighting setup was used.
Let’s dive in!
In this first example, we see a relatively large reflection that is slightly off center.
The large size indicates that this is a soft light source, which should produce a very blended fall-off from highlights to shadows.
The centering of the light should yield even lighting across the face, with perhaps a bit more shadow on the left (subject’s right-hand side) - opposite the side of the light source.
Here’s what we get:
Soft Overhead (slightly off-center) Lighting Example - Full Photo. Model: Emma Sweeney
Let’s try another one:
The catch light shows a large light source on the very left of the subject's left eye. What should the full photo look like?
Soft Side Lighting Example - Full Photo. Model: Taylor Natvig
Did you guess correctly?
Study the transition between highlights and shadows to determine whether a hard light or a soft light was used.
In photography and lighting, the terms "soft light" and "hard light" refer to the quality of the light source. Soft light refers to light that is diffused and creates soft, gentle shadows. This type of light is often described as warm and inviting. Hard light, on the other hand, is more direct and creates sharp, well-defined shadows. Hard light is often described as cold and harsh. Harsh lighting may sound unflattering but in certain instances, particularly in fashion and contemporary beauty publications, it can be used to great effect, producing bold, eye-catching images.
Examine the size of the catch light. This shortcut reveals a universal rule of photography. As a light source becomes smaller relative to the subject, the light turns from soft to hard.
There are two ways to achieve a smaller light source: 1. use a smaller light modifier, or 2. move the light away from the subject (in this case you will need to turn up the power to correct for exposure).
Notice how tiny the white catch light appears in the model’s eye. Without seeing the shadows and highlights in the rest of the photo, we can expect to see defined harsh shadows.
From the placement of the light (in the upper left hand side, but not on the extreme left) we can also predict that the lighting will be “Rembrandt” lighting, resulting in the characteristic “triangle shadow” on the opposite side of the nose.
Hard Lighting Example - Full Photo. Model: Sasha Emiri
Here’s the triangle shaped shadow that invariably results from using a Rembrandt lighting setup where the key light is positioned/angled 45 degrees toward the subject, both from above and on either side.
Rembrandt Lighting Shadow, abrupt transition from highlight to shadow
I’ll leave you with a slightly more advanced single light setup. Can you tell where the light is positioned relative to the subject, just by looking at the reflection of the eyes and the pattern of highlights and shadows?
What type of light source was used? Where was it positioned?
Model: Emma Sweeney
The Gear
The question I’m most often asked is what gear do I use? Although I love cameras, lenses, and lighting equipment as much as the next photographer, it’s important to remember that the gear is not nearly as important as how you make use of it and what you put in front of the lens.
All the photos above were taken with the Fujifilm X-T4 using the Fujinon 90mm f/2 shot wide open, and the light modifier used was a 7 foot Westcott Parabolic Umbrella (with diffusion for the soft light shots) and the Godox AD600 Pro Flash Strobe.
Instagram Worthy Spots in St. Louis: “A Not So Secret” Guide - Vol. 1
What makes it so special, you ask? Well, you couldn’t ask for better natural lighting…
It may sound overdone, but there are many good reasons why parking garages make for great Instagram-worthy spots: the urban-industrial concrete, neutral colors, leading lines, and rooftop access for city skyline views, the list goes on and on.
That said, the not so secret spot I’d like to recommend to you is not your average parking garage!
Located across the street from the U.S. Bank building in downtown St. Louis, the 7th Street Parking Garage is quickly becoming a favorite photo location of this St. Louis based portrait photographer.
What makes it so special, you ask? Well, you couldn’t ask for better natural lighting…
Check out the amazing, flattering, soft light you get through these floor-to-ceiling panel windows. They’re frosted in a way that diffuses the sunlight as if a photographer were consulted to design them.
Fitness Model Morganne Venters, lifestyle portrait photoshoot at the 7th Street Parking Garage in downtown St. Louis. Natural diffused light from floor to ceiling frosted window panels.
Fitness Model Morganne Venters, lifestyle portrait photoshoot at the 7th Street Parking Garage in downtown St. Louis. View with backlighting from the west wall.
If that weren’t enough, there is a giant greenhouse-style arched roof that makes for some wonderfully compelling portraits with soft, beautiful overhead lighting.
Model Mya Toennies, fashion photoshoot at 7th Street Parking Garage in Downtown St. Louis
Directions: Enter the parking garage on 7th street. The entrance is nearest to the intersection of Locust St and 7th St. Drive up to the top floor and have an awesome time shooting at this very special location!
Pro tip: Try this location in the fall or spring, I highly recommend avoiding going at the peak of summer as it can get extremely hot!
First Impressions and the Importance of a Great Headshot
"First impressions are lasting" understates the actual case. The first impression, with startling frequency, is also the final decision.
"First impressions are lasting" understates the actual case. The first impression, with startling frequency, is also the final decision.
-You, Inc.: The Art of Selling Yourself, by Harry Beckwith and Christine K. Clifford
A 2006 study by Janine Willis and Alexander Todorov showed that people make a judgement about a person's likeability, trustworthiness, and competence, in one-tenth of a second. Furthermore, their research confirms that this first impression does not change with time.
In 2016, Vivian Zayas, professor of psychology at Cornell University, and her colleagues found that first impressions were formed simply from looking at a photograph predicted how people felt and thought about the person after a live interaction that took place one month to six months later.
This is an incredibly powerful argument for making sure your headshots are the best they can possibly be.
Headshot Impression Test on Photofeeler.com
I recently discovered Photofeeler.com and I think it’s a fun way to test out what kind of impression your headshot is making. Photofeeler crowdsources votes from real people who will score the photo on metrics like competency, likeability, and influence. Disclaimer: I’m not in any way associated with this service, but I do think it’s a useful tool.
Written by Henry David, St. Louis Headshot and Portrait Photographer
Top 5 Places to Take Photos in St. Louis
Best photo spots in St. Louis, Missouri
As a photographer based here in St. Louis, I’m continually amazed by the incredible variety of great photo locations in and around St. Louis. The Gateway to the West offers a seemingly endless number of instagrammable locations.
Best photo spots in St. Louis, Missouri
As a photographer based here in St. Louis, I’m continually amazed by the incredible variety of great photo locations in and around St. Louis. The Gateway to the West offers a seemingly endless number of instagrammable locations. If you’re looking for a good place to take pictures in the St. Louis area, consider the following spots:
1. Laclede’s Landing
Settled in 1764, this historic area of the city offers a stunning view of the St. Louis Arch, framed by beautiful 19th century architecture and original brickwork.
Laclede’s Landing, the oldest district in St. Louis, is situated on the Mississippi riverfront. It’s known for its cobblestone streets, historic warehouses, and my personal favorite, Eads Bridge. This area is perfect for capturing an urban look.
The Landing is also home to The Old Spaghetti Factory, which boasts original woodwork and sumptuous turn-of-the-century décor. Definitely worth a visit!
Pro tip: Tucked away between Lucas Ave and Morgan street, look for Clamorgan Alley, which offers an iconic view of the Gateway Arch
2. Forest Park
No list of the top photo spots in St. Louis would be complete without the mention of Forest Park. In fact, this sprawling oasis in the midst of the city is perhaps the most photographed location in all of St. Louis. I’m constantly finding new spots within the park, but my current favorites are:
The Muny
Model Sasha Emiri at The Muny, Forest Park - Photo by St. Louis Photographer Henry David
Art Hill
Portrait Photo at Art Hill, Forest Park
3. Castlewood State Park
A 25 minute drive from the city, Castlewood State Park offers one of the most breathtaking views in the St. Louis area. Expect a moderately challenging climb up the nature trail to the summit to catch a view of the river down below.
Golden Hour photography here can produce remarkably beautiful results. The filtered backlight that the woods provide year round can make for very cinematic imagery.
Slow Motion Video Test Lifestyle Portrait Photoshoot in Castlewood State Park, Missouri
4. Pulitzer Arts Foundation & Spring Church
Pulitzer Arts Foundation is one of the best places to take pictures in St. Louis, especially if you like modern architecture, clean lines, and a dynamic contemporary look that doesn’t go out of style.
The Foundation’s courtyard is home to one of the most Instagrammed spots in St. Louis - Richard Serra’s Joe, is an imposing earth-toned spiral sculpture that can’t be missed.
Pulitzer Arts Foundation allows for non-commercial photography without the use of flash.
The nearby roofless Spring Church (just across the street from Pulitzer Arts Foundation) which re-opened in the Fall of 2022, also makes for a very unique photo op:
Inside Spring Church, model Bejda Kaktic
5. Missouri Botanical Garden
Originally founded by businessman Henry Shaw, the Missouri Botanical Garden is a must-visit for tourists and St. Louis residents alike. My favorite spot is at The Japanese Garden, which has traditional bridges and a beautiful waterfall.
Bonus Photo Spot!
Set in the heart of Downtown St. Louis, this spot is perfect for those seeking a one-of-a-kind backdrop for their shoots. Check it out in our feature of the 7th Street Garage in our first volume of Instagram Worthy Spots in St. Louis.
Photography Copyright Henry David 2023. All Rights Reserved.
Studio Lighting and Mood
Simple but powerful, small changes in studio lighting can dramatically change the mood of a portrait.
Small changes in studio lighting can dramatically change the mood of a portrait.
I recently had the pleasure of working with author Dr. Tahir Rahman, Associate Professor of Psychiatry at Washington University in St. Louis.
Clamshell Lighting for Commercial Portraiture
Oxford University Press needed an approachable, commercial looking headshot to promote Dr. Rahman’s newest book.
We used a clamshell setup with a soft key light source above the subject’s face (the top part of the “clamshell”), and a broadly curved reflector for the lower part of the shell.
The key light above provides flattering wrap-around light, while the bottom fills in the shadows and smooths out the skin. I often find that adding a hair light opposite the key light adds depth and provides subtle background separation:
Commercial Portrait with Clamshell Lighting (Angler 48 inch BoomBox + Westcott Eyelighter + Gridded Hair Light)
Single Light Dramatic Portrait
By removing the reflector and hair light, we are left with just the key light. Moving the key light to one side of the subject’s face creates a classic Rembrandt lighting setup with deep shadows cast on the other side of the face. Removing a few light modifiers and changing the placement of our key light creates a profoundly different mood:
Single Light Dramatic Portrait (Angler 48 Octobox, feathered)
Post-Production
Lighting is paramount to controlling the mood of a portrait, but we can go one step further with editing and retouching in Photoshop. Black and White conversion, exposure reduction, contrast rebalancing, and detail enhancing all work together to add a sense of mystery and deepen the drama of the portrait:
Black and White Edit, Adobe Photoshop