Book launch portrait photography shoot at Ikon Gallery
There is no greater compliment than a client returning to you for an update to their portrait session. It means their images have served them well and they trust me to create a fresh set of images that represent where they are at now in their life, business or creativity. For Birmingham-based Art Critic and Author, Ruth Millington, the timing of the photoshoot needed to happen in preparation for the launch of her first book, Muse, so that she had a collection of shots for press and promotion across social media, online and in print.
It had been two years since our first shoot together and in that time Ruth had experienced the importance of having a selection of professional portraits at her fingertips to elevate her own website and social media but also to add authority and gravitas to media publications. Nothing says ‘I’m serious about what I do’ when being featured than having a a professional portrait that you feel confident and happy to see out in the world.
We returned to the Ikon Gallery for our shoot update. Like any form of visual branding, it’s always recommended that your portrait photography evolves, rather than changes dramatically. If you look at the Coca Cola logo, you don’t really notice it’s changed until you look back, that’s how good visual branding works.
To develop the look and feel, I advised an update in the personal style of the shot, so hair, make-up and fashion are the first giveaways that a photo is not as recent as it could be. In terms of photography, I would use lighting, composition and the locations within the gallery to progress the visual look and feel of the set of photos.
Since the launch of Muse, it’s been wonderful to see Ruth’s photos working hard to support her book launch media activity in many publications both digitally and in print, including, The Independent, Chip Lit Fest and so many more.
“Victoria is a fantastic portrait photographer. I have used the headshots she took of me over and over again - on social media, author pages, promo material and more. She made me feel really comfortable and at ease, ensuring that the photographs all looked natural while professional. I will be booking in with her again!”
Ruth Millington
