There was a Toronto photographer who did “three-S” portraits. When someone arrived at her studio for a business portrait, which she hated doing, she would tell them to “sit down, shut-up and smile.” She would then proceed to photograph them as quickly as possible.
Most companies know that business portraits are important. When a business hires a corporate photographer to produce portraits of its key employees, these people should be warned that they will be asked to smile. This is not meant to be cruel and unusual punishment.
A smile need not be a big, toothy grin. But a friendly appearance is important and that comes not just from the mouth but also from the eyes.
By having the employees smile, the photographer is following proven science.
A recent study at Penn State University found that when you smile, you don’t only appear to be more likable and courteous, but you actually appear to be more competent.
– Ron Gutman CEO/founder of HealthTap
