Polishing Your Online Portrait

Earlier this week, the New York Times reported on the use of digital photos by realtors on real estate websites: When selling properties online, agents and Web designers say that the pictures buyers see of...

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Earlier this week, the New York Times reported on the use of digital photos by realtors on real estate websites:

When selling properties online, agents and Web designers say that the pictures buyers see of houses and apartments for sale are often the first — and sometimes the only — chance for a seller to make a good impression. Less-than-flattering pictures can turn buyers off and lead to lonely open houses.

The same may hold true for lawyers seeking to market their legal services online as well, as we had discussed in an earlier post. (See Say Cheese.) Make sure the photos you use on your website convey the professionalism and attention to detail that you demonstrate in your daily practice.

Clean the Clutter. To convey the spaciousness of a room for photos or open houses, realtors often tell their clients to clean up the clutter. The same holds true for photos of lawyers and law offices. If you choose not to hire a professional photographer to keep an eye on such details for you, then you will have to do it yourself. Keep a clean desk and do not include in the photo all the files, folders and boxes you keep within arm’s reach.

Timing is Everything. If you are fortunate enough to have an office with windows, you are probably aware that the quality of light changes throughout the day. At sunrise and sunset, natural light exudes a warmer tone. During the middle of the day, the sunlight is stronger and harsher. Take photos at various points of the day and see if you notice any difference.

Portrait or Landscape. If you are not sure how the photos will be placed on your website, take both portraits (vertical) and landscapes (horizontal). This will give your web design team the most options when deciding which photos to use and where to place them on your law firm web site..

The Right Perspective. Experiment with different camera placements and poses. Just because the police take a headshot at eye level against a white wall, it doesn’t mean you have to.