Three Reasons Why Men Need Great Photos; An MTM Father's Day Special

I’ve been a professional photographer for the past eight years and if I’m completely honest, my female to male client ratio is well … yeah…

Men don’t like to take pictures… 

For the most part, the man prefers to make sure everyone else in his family is straight. He doesn’t have a problem paying for his lady to get all dolled up and strike a pose in front of the camera. If it's for his daughter, trust me, he’ll show up with balloons, tutus, cupcakes and confetti because it's what his baby girl needs. 

No one will argue that a supportive man / father is golden, right? Right!

But here’s what I’ve found to be the norm. If a man’s woman pushes (or nags) him enough, he’ll give in eventually. He’ll show up as best as he can and make it through the session. If he doesn’t do it then, it's unlikely that he’ll follow through (even if he really needs new photos).

Contrary to popular belief, I strongly believe men need as much (or even more) attention than women. This has nothing to do with being “soft men”, but I understand that they’re human. They have feelings, want to be catered to and feel like they matter (because they do).

Some of my best friends are males. They’re practically my brothers at this point and I’ve witnessed (more than I’d like to lol) when they start to feel themselves. If we hang out or go for lunch, I somehow become the official iPhone photographer because someone needs something to post to IG (rolling eyes emoji). 

Maybe it's wishful thinking, but I’d like to see a change in the overall narrative.

I think there’s something special when a man gets a fresh cut, has a suit that perfectly fits him, he sprays a bit (or a lot) of his favorite cologne and organically lets his confidence go through the roof!

Ladies, I want to remind you of the role you play in all of this. Imagine booking a photo session for your man. He could be a business owner or has dreams of becoming one. What are you -the influential voice in his ear- doing to invest in him, his future, his dreams? Imagine telling him how you set everything up and all he has to do is get ready and show up. I know they’re not the most vocal, they may never verbally say how much your support means, but one small act could mean the world to him. Why? Because you’re showing him that you believe in him. 

If I haven’t done a good job convincing you why you should book a headshot session for the male / father in your life yet, then let me bring it home for you:

1. Regardless of what he does, the image he puts out for the world to see matters. We live in a time where people will judge you based on your online presence. Fellas, are you an entrepreneur? Do you have dreams of participating in conferences? Maybe you’re trying to get that promotion at work. The reality is, it's never too late to turn over a new leaf and start fresh. Even if it's with a LinkedIn account, Facebook or IG page, I'll even go out on a limb and say a new WhatAapp profile photo. How do you want people to perceive you? Let your photos do the talking.

2. Ladies, I alluded to this previously, but how you show up for the men in your life matters. In Bahamian culture, crab and rice and a decent Sunday dinner is the norm on Father’s Day. Try something different this year. I know from experience that men don’t like being photographed, but I’ve seen couples show up at my studio and leave with a rekindled fire to their relationship. The fact that you took the time to do something different, would mean the world to him. Try it. You never know what could happen … 

3. Lastly, although I’m a photographer, I’m in the people business. I’m far more invested in helping people to see their worth. Photography and camera stuff is only a small fraction. I’m interested in letting clients (men included) know that hey, I see you and if I can help anyone feel valued through photography, then my work is done.

It’s more than just a photo, right?

I know this post is a little lengthy but if you made it this far then I have a treat for you. I’m giving a HUGE discount to the first three people who have read this post entirely. Go to http://www.themtmbrand.com/bookings and fill out the form. In the section that says specify what you want, type: “I READ THE WHOLE FATHER’S DAY POST” and someone from our team will tell you what the discounted rate is on your next session.

Let’s change the narrative, guys. Men need great photos too!

-Ray