Casey’s Photos, And Yours
My son-in-law, Casey McCorison is a great photographer, as you can tell by seeing the photos on this site. I wish you could see his photos enlarged, framed and displayed as he and Shannon have done for their home. You can see them decorating your own home by purchasing them on his website! You may also want to find a photo that reminds you of someone and have it made into a clever gift. Both the photos and gifts are offered through Shutterfly, with whom Casey has partnered.
I’ve given many gifts that were perfect for the friend receiving them by finding an image that fits the friend’s traits, hobbies, pets, or a concept about our friendship, and using Casey’s website to order a mug, magnet, mousepad, calendar, notes, desk accessories–and sometimes even a plain photo!
I often suggest that the supervisors, managers and others in my classes take a camera to work and grab a few photos: Before or after staff meetings, in the coffee room, at lunch, at special events, and any other time a camera and flash won’t be disturbing or inappropriate. If someone says he or she doesn’t want to be photographed, honor that request. Maybe you can set up another time when they’re better prepared. Or, consider telling everyone that you’re going to take photos the next day and promise you won’t take a photo if someone really doesn’t want to participate. That way people can come to work better prepared about what they’re wearing and how they look.
Many people feel they must protest about having their picture taken, so you may need to ask twice. After that, you should only ask again if it appears they’re hanging around hoping you will. Photographing someone who has asked you not to do it is not only rude, it could result in a complaint about your behavior. However, you’ll probably find most people will grimace at you but smile at the camera. The key is to take it when they’re ready, no matter how you feel about posed photos. You can’t blame people for hating candid shots where they are immortalized while talking, eating or sitting in a way that makes them cringe everytime they see it! When you send people a file of their photo by email, thank them for being a good sport. That may make it easier next time!
Taking and distributing photos is a good way to develop a reputation for being helpful and fun–and it will lighten up the work environment as well. You can also use the photos for gifts, as part of training or in PowerPoint presentations (done in a professional way, not to make fun of people or to use the photos inappropriately), and in memory books for those who transfer or retire.
You may never have the skill with a camera Casey has, or his eye for color and composition, or the patience he has to sit and wait for the perfect photo. But you can have the willingness to share yourself and your time that he does. Take a camera to work tomorrow! And, send me a photo or two, to let me see your workplace and your work group. You know how to contact me!
