
Once upon a time, only actors, models and executives needed professional headshots. Today, personal branding is more important than ever, as our profile pictures are the first things people see on sites like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. According to LinkedIn, profiles that contain a photo are 7 times more likely to be viewed than those that don't have a photo, and those that contain a professional headshot have even better chances of not only being viewed, but making that perfect first impression. Therefore, professional portraits are the new handshake.
However, many people don't have the budget to invest in a full-blown session with a photographer, as they may be in job transition, in an internship, just graduating, or simply can't justify it. Yes, headshots can cost a pretty penny (ranging from $200-$600), BUT for good reason. Getting a great, professional picture requires way more than someone smiling solo in a suit. It needs the right lighting, angles, backgrounds, framing, and depending on your industry, the pose and feel are crucial as well. So, it's best to bring a photographer into the mix.
When I was first starting Pollinize Media, the only professional images I had of myself on my LinkedIn and about.me page were of me in my, ahem, wedding gown. Hesitant to pay for a full-on session and not sure who to turn to, I simply asked Ali Vagnini of Alison Vagnini Photography to snap some quick photos of me during a mini, post-wedding photo shoot that my husband and I did.
In just minutes of sitting in front of my favorite yellow wall in Denver, she was able to capture at least three usable images. When it comes down to it, you only need one or two great photos from the session, and when paired with the right photographer, you only need 10-15 minutes tops.
However, many people don't have the budget to invest in a full-blown session with a photographer, as they may be in job transition, in an internship, just graduating, or simply can't justify it. Yes, headshots can cost a pretty penny (ranging from $200-$600), BUT for good reason. Getting a great, professional picture requires way more than someone smiling solo in a suit. It needs the right lighting, angles, backgrounds, framing, and depending on your industry, the pose and feel are crucial as well. So, it's best to bring a photographer into the mix.
When I was first starting Pollinize Media, the only professional images I had of myself on my LinkedIn and about.me page were of me in my, ahem, wedding gown. Hesitant to pay for a full-on session and not sure who to turn to, I simply asked Ali Vagnini of Alison Vagnini Photography to snap some quick photos of me during a mini, post-wedding photo shoot that my husband and I did.
In just minutes of sitting in front of my favorite yellow wall in Denver, she was able to capture at least three usable images. When it comes down to it, you only need one or two great photos from the session, and when paired with the right photographer, you only need 10-15 minutes tops.

That's where the Headshots & Blowouts Party comes in. I created this concept to allow for mini sessions with a great photographer (John S. Miller is ah-maz-ing) at a local salon (Fresh is spacious and bright) that offers a wonderful space for mingling and networking. Think about it. You're likely going to get your hair done before you get behind the camera, so why not do it in one spot for an amazing price? And, once you get prettified, your confidence will be high and your networking wheels will be spinning.
Plus, if you're anything like me, taking headshots can be beyond awkward, so a little liquid courage is a must. (Hint: There will be mimosas! And a raffle!)
Plus, if you're anything like me, taking headshots can be beyond awkward, so a little liquid courage is a must. (Hint: There will be mimosas! And a raffle!)

Raffle items:
- 2 free pedicures and 2 glasses of wine at Fresh in Cherry Creek
- Free personal branding consult with Pollinize Media
- Adorable note cards from Lana's Shop
- 1 free month of yoga at The River Power Vinyasa Yoga
- 1 free month at Fitness in the City
- Luxury body care package (in Mandarin) from Zents
- 4 free sessions at Orangetheory Fitness Glendale/Denver , CO
- Free treatment of your choice (valued at $149) at m.pulse
- $25 gift card and other goodies from Silpada Designs
Custom illustrations and invite design by Lana's Shop