Capturing Leadership: Photographing Gary Jones as Basildon Council’s New Chief Executive
Recently, I had the incredible honour of photographing an old friend of mine, Gary Jones, who has just been appointed as the Chief Executive of Basildon Council. It’s not every day you get the opportunity to help an old friend prepare for such a prestigious role, and I was thrilled when Gary reached out to me for his new headshots. As someone who knows the value of a great first impression, Gary understood the importance of having professional images that reflect his leadership qualities, personality, and professionalism.
Gary and I go way back, so when he called to discuss the shoot, it felt more like catching up with an old friend than planning a professional session. He explained that his new role came with the need to update his online presence, from LinkedIn to the council’s official website. We both agreed that the headshots should strike a balance between authority and approachability, projecting him as a confident leader but also someone who’s grounded and relatable.
The Location and Setup
We decided to conduct the shoot at Basildon Council’s offices. The modern architecture and clean, professional interiors provided the perfect backdrop for the kind of imagery Gary needed. By using his workplace as the location, the photos would not only look professional but also have a sense of authenticity, connecting him to the organisation he now leads.
I arrived early to scout the location and decide on the best spots to shoot. Lighting is everything in photography, so I brought my portable studio setup, complete with softboxes, reflectors, and backdrops, just in case.
Preparing for the Shoot
Before the shoot began, we took some time to chat about his vision for the photos. Gary mentioned that he wanted the images to convey professionalism and confidence without appearing overly formal or intimidating. As someone stepping into such a high-profile role, he wanted his headshots to resonate with both his team and the wider community.
Capturing the perfect shot
One of the things I love about photographing old friends is the ease and comfort that comes with it. Gary’s natural charisma and sense of humour made the entire shoot enjoyable. We started with some traditional head-and-shoulders shots, ensuring that his posture, expression, and eye line were all spot-on. Gary has a great smile, so we captured a range of expressions—from friendly and approachable to more serious and focused.
As the session progressed, I occasionally showed Gary some of the shots on the camera’s screen. This collaborative approach not only helped us fine-tune the poses and expressions but also ensured that Gary was happy with the direction we were heading in.
The Final Results
Once the shoot wrapped up, I couldn’t wait to start editing the photos. Post-processing is where the magic really happens. I focused on enhancing the natural light, fine-tuning the colours, and retouching minor details to ensure a polished yet authentic result. The final images were a perfect blend of professionalism and approachability, capturing Gary’s personality and the gravitas of his new role.
When I delivered the final set of headshots to Gary, his reaction was everything I could have hoped for. He was thrilled with how the photos turned out and felt they perfectly represented him and the message he wanted to convey. Seeing a friend so happy with the results reminded me why I love what I do.
Why a Good Headshot Matters
In today’s digital age, a good headshot is more important than ever. Whether it’s for LinkedIn, a company website, or a press release, your headshot is often the first impression you make on others. For someone in a leadership role like Gary, a professional headshot isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a necessity.
A high-quality headshot communicates who you are before you even say a word. It can convey confidence, professionalism, and approachability, all of which are essential traits for someone in a position of influence. A poorly lit or outdated photo, on the other hand, can send the wrong message, making you appear unprofessional or out of touch.
Investing in a professional photographer ensures that your headshot aligns with your personal brand and the image you want to project. It’s about more than just looking good; it’s about creating a connection with your audience and building trust from the very first glance.
Reflecting on the Experience
Photographing Gary for such an important milestone in his career was a truly rewarding experience. Not only did I get to catch up with an old friend, but I also had the chance to play a small role in helping him step into this exciting new chapter with confidence. Seeing his reaction to the final images was a reminder of how powerful photography can be in shaping perceptions and telling a story.
Gary’s new role as Chief Executive of Basildon Council is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and leadership skills. I have no doubt that he will excel in this position and make a positive impact on the community. And while I can’t take credit for his success, I’m glad I could help him start this new journey on the right foot with a set of headshots that truly capture the essence of who he is.
To anyone considering updating their professional headshots, I can’t stress enough how valuable it is to invest in a session with a professional photographer. Whether you’re stepping into a new role, building your personal brand, or simply looking to refresh your online presence, the right headshot can make all the difference. Just ask Gary Jones.