My Tips for Speaking at Events.
When you step onto the stage, you aren't just commanding the room, you are also commanding the photographer’s lens. After photographing thousands of speakers, I have realized that the "perfect shot" isn't a stroke of luck; it’s the result of small, intentional choices made during the presentation.
Based on my experience, here some tips to help you feel more comfortable on stage and help me deliver images you will be excited to share.
Be animated. Use open-hand gestures and purposeful movements while speaking to enhance the emotion/importance of your speaking points.
Step away from the podium. Walking around the stage will keep your audience’s attention.
Look up from your notes, and smile when possible. Practice speaking in the mirror, paying attention to your facial expressions as well as the speed and tone of your voice.
Pause at key moments such as after a video, a story or a key statement. A tactical pause lets your message sink in while giving me the perfect window for a composed, thoughtful shot.
Have water nearby. Not only for hydration, but this is another way to pause at a key moment.
Wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident, hit that stage like you OWN it!
If after reading all of the above, you still have sweaty palms:
Use the podium as a comfort zone. Place a hand on the podium, or in your pocket to steady yourself.
Find people you know in the audience and look at them (for comfort) when possible. Looking at your photographer is another option, after all we want you to look good!
And most importantly, even if you aren’t speaking onstage, you are still on stage, in full view of the audience, and my lens. Please stay focused on who is in the spotlight. A great capture of a speaker is instantly ruined if someone in the background happens to be staring up at the ceiling or down at the floor.
To summarize, you don’t need to “pose” to get great photos while speaking. Just be intentional with your pauses, presence, and positioning and I’ll take care of the rest.
Let’s make your next stage moment unforgettable with authentic, usable images!
