PARMA, Ohio — They say you never get a second chance to make a first impression. That’s why that headshot photo on your LinkedIn profile or your company website actually matters. Fair or not, presentation is meaningful, and you don’t want to represent yourself poorly.
That’s why when I found out about a local event sponsored by the Young Professionals of Parma and the Parma Area Chamber of Commerce, essentially offering a grown-up picture day, I knew I needed to stop by.
"We were sitting down one day and we were talking about events for the year and we were talking New Year and you make your new resolutions and we got to talking on headshot and I was like, my last headshot, I was in high school and I was a blonde," explained Parma Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Megan Cooney. "So we thought this would be a great opportunity to offer headshots at an affordable price."
The chamber partnered with Parma-based studio Flex Media to handle the well-attended photoshoot at the famed Schnitz Ale Brewery on Pearl Road.
"It's so important for employers as well as to get your name in the community and just for your business. And we have different types of business. We have small businesses, we have large businesses," Cooney said. "You can see some of us are dressed in jeans, some are dressed in full suits. It's just a great way to represent your business."
These movers and shakers lined up to wait for their brisk few minutes under the hot lights. Many stuck around afterwards for a little casual networking and some post-shoot reflection.
Photographer Bill Baraona, of The Flex Media team said he was happy to be a part of this Parma Positive event.
"I feel great. I mean, we got to photograph 38 people and we're going to help more young professionals in Parma get to network and advance their career."
Of course, I have never been one not to take advantage of a solid bargain, so I decided this would be a good opportunity for me to update my own promo shots at an excellent price point.
Personally, I’ve always believed there’s just one key to taking the perfect headshot: Unwavering Confidence. No matter how you have to get there.