Executive Lens is now Portland’s Headshot Crew Associate (Platinum)
The Headshot Crew is a global community, founded by renowned celebrity photographer Peter Hurley, comprising twenty thousand exceptional headshot photographers who openly share their ideas and techniques. Worldwide, only a select few (183 to date) achieve associate status, which is granted based on their proven ability to meet rigorous standardized requirements in photography, lighting, color, expression, and posing, among other criteria. Legacy-level associates achieved the rigorouse requirements at some point in the past. Platinum-level associates (currently 87 worldwide) however, have the same requirement but also commit to ongoing improvement and regular testing to meet the continually changing and evolving cutting-edge current standards of the community. An associate's dedication of time, expenses, years of training, travel, and equipment to their craft is directly reflected in the high quality of the headshots they provide to clients. However, it also influences the pricing they can offer for their services. By employing techniques and equipment that were once only available in the top studios of New York and L.A., clients frequently include celebrities, top executives, and other individuals at the forefront of their respective fields. These clients fully understand the value of a perfect headshot in shaping the trajectory of their careers and maintaining a competitive edge over others.
The world's most recognized recognition of top headshot photography can vary depending on the context and the specific industry or community in question. There isn't a single universally recognized award or certification for headshot photography, but there are several well-regarded organizations, competitions, and platforms where outstanding headshot photographers can gain recognition. Some of these include:
1. Professional Photographers of America (PPA): PPA is a respected organization that offers certification and resources for professional photographers. They hold competitions and awards for various photography genres, including headshot photography.
2. Portrait Masters: This is an annual photography competition and educational platform for portrait photographers. They recognize excellence in various portrait styles, including headshots.
3. Headshot Crew: Headshot Crew is a community and network for headshot photographers created by renowned headshot photographer Peter Hurley. Membership and recognition within this community can be a significant mark of achievement.
4. WPPI (Wedding & Portrait Photographers International): WPPI is a leading organization for wedding and portrait photographers. They host an annual competition and conference where headshot photographers can gain recognition.
5. International Photography Awards (IPA): While not specific to headshots, IPA is a prestigious photography competition that includes a portrait category. Exceptional headshot photographers may receive recognition through this platform.
6. Fstoppers Headshot Critique Group: Fstoppers is a popular photography community and website. They have a headshot critique group where photographers can share their work and receive feedback and recognition.
7. Online platforms and social media: Platforms like Instagram and 500px, as well as photography-focused forums and groups on Facebook and other social media, can help headshot photographers gain recognition and build a following.
8. Another significant way to achieve recognition for excellence in headshot photography involves receiving personal and challenging mentoring from highly acclaimed professionals in the field of commercial headshots and portrait photography. This would include mentoriring with such renowned figures as Annie Leibovitz, Peter Hurley, Rory Lewis, Ivan Weiss, Glyn Dewis and Joel Grimes for invaluable guidance.
9. Client reviews and referrals: Ultimately, a headshot photographer's success and recognition often come from satisfied clients who refer them to others and leave positive reviews.
The most recognized recognition may also depend on regional differences and personal preferences within the photography industry. Winning awards, achieving certifications, and building a strong online presence through social media and websites are typical ways for headshot photographers to gain recognition for their work.
See also: Best Headshot Studios
