Research proves that eye contact activates the limbic mirror system in our brains, so the same neurons firing in someone else’s brain, will also fire in yours when you share eye contact. I craft all my portraits to bring the viewer’s attention to my subject’s eyes. The thing I spend the most time on is conjuring emotions from my subject, because what they are feeling in the moment I press the shutter, IS the picture. Simon came to me, desperate to stand apart from his actor competition. He booked our session knowing I charge more than most other actor headshot professionals in Atlanta.  He had seen my recent actor clients posting about how my work got them a new agent, or opened doors that led directly to a lucrative booking. He banked on having the same return on his investment, and he got just that.  Within weeks of our shoot… a new more powerful agent, then the lead in an independent film that paid his bills for months. 

“Smize,” or “squinch,” wide open eyes convey fear, or surprise, or insecurity. Not really the look you’re going for. A very slight narrowing of the eyes, conversely, conveys confidence, surety, mystery, and a host of other things we DO want to convey. Try it in the mirror, and go ahead and laugh, but if you get this right, it will take your photographs to another level. I’m not talking about getting all Clint Eastwood squinty, like you’re about to mow down bad guys in the street… just a hint of narrowed eyes, paired with a hint of a smile, for both men and women, the combination can be electric and memorable.