Northwest Arkansas Business Journal – Environmental Portraits
Business portraits are a unique challenge for any photographer. It’s easy to fall into the trap of simply taking a traditional, stiff shot in an office, but I always strive to create something more compelling. The goal is to capture the true personality of the person—whether that’s a fun, dynamic moment or a relaxed, authentic look. Achieving this requires a bit of extra effort: helping the subject warm up, get comfortable, and genuinely enjoy the process. It’s all about creating an environment where the subject can be themselves and allow their true character to shine through.
Chef Michael Huefner: A Fun and Dynamic Shoot
One of my favorite recent business portraits was with Chef Michael Huefner from Northwest Arkansas Community College. We had a specific shot in mind—Chef Michael flipping food in the air—but some of the best moments came unexpectedly. While the action shot was fun, I absolutely loved the more candid photos that captured the joy and energy of the moment. The smiles, laughter, and energy we captured during the shoot really stand out to me, and it was a blast working together. Plus, we made a pretty big mess along the way!
Don Bacigalupi: Capturing the Director of Crystal Bridges Museum
Another memorable portrait session was with Don Bacigalupi, the director of Crystal Bridges Museum in Bentonville, Arkansas. Photographing someone in such an iconic role required a blend of professionalism and personality. I aimed to create an image that spoke to Don’s leadership and connection to the art world while maintaining a personal and approachable feel. It’s always fulfilling to photograph people who are so passionate about their work and culture.
Arnold “Tuffy” Lehman: Building Dreams in Berryville
I also had the opportunity to photograph Arnold “Tuffy” Lehman, who is building a beautiful subdivision in Berryville, Arkansas. If you’ve ever floated down the King’s River from Trigger Gap to Hwy 62, you’ve probably noticed the stunning log cabins along the way. Tuffy is the mastermind behind these homes, and it was fascinating to capture him at the entrance to one of the subdivisions. It was one of those rare moments where I got to see the homes he’s built from both a land and a portrait perspective. The personal connection to the work made this session even more meaningful.
The Value of Personalizing Business Portraits
The beauty of business portraits is that they don’t have to be confined to a desk or office setting. By incorporating elements of a person’s profession, surroundings, or personality, these images can tell a much richer story. Whether it’s the chef flipping food, a museum director in a contemplative moment, or a builder with his creations in the background, these portraits go beyond the traditional “corporate” look and reveal the heart of the person behind the title.
If you’re looking for a photographer who can capture your authentic self in a professional yet relaxed environment, let’s talk! I love turning business portraits into dynamic, meaningful images that help tell your unique story.