In the corporate world, Mondays often get a bad rap. But Dr Titia Hensel and her team at coaching agency Sunny Monday are dedicated to positive leadership and workplace happiness – they want the start of the week to be an opportunity. Recently, I had the pleasure of working with them to translate that mission into high-impact visuals.
Beyond the Brief: Elevating Strategy from Behind the Lens
The challenge was to create imagery that reflects a mission of workplace satisfaction and collective synergy. My process starts with an in-depth consultation to align on strategic goals, ensuring we arrive on set with a clear, actionable concept already in place. It is this transition – from rigorous planning to deliberate execution – where as a photographer I provide the most value: by ensuring the final images reflect the heart of the business, we elevate the visual strategy from behind the lens.
The Power of a Strong Network (and Adaptability)
We were fortunate to secure a unique space for this shoot through a professional connection. Utilizing your network can unlock locations that provide a reinforcing backdrop otherwise unavailable and difficult to create in a studio setting. However, a great location often requires heavy lifting – literally. To respect the space, we meticulously documented the original layout so we had the freedom to create the perfect composition while ensuring we left the environment exactly as we found it.
Curating the Professional Environment
The Sunny Monday team has a fantastic bond and a great sense of humor – qualities that are essential for their mission. It also shows that managing the “energy” on set is a vital part of the process. By carefully controlling who is in the room during individual portraits, you ensure the atmosphere remains relaxed and professional. This allows natural confidence to lead the way without the pressure of an unnecessary audience, proving that the right environment is just as important as the right lighting.
