Client Stories: Registered Nurse Charlene Platon
Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about what you do?
I'm Charlene Platon. I'm a registered nurse and nurse practitioner by background, and have been a healthcare leader for the past 8 years. I am currently Director of Ambulatory Nursing at an academic medical center, and I am CEO & Co-Founder of Fifth Window, a nursing well-being platform and community. For the past four years, my main focus has been on advocating for and prioritizing nursing well-being, especially in light of the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. I am dedicated to reducing the stigma around mental health to encourage clinicians to access much-needed care.
What motivated you to get a new headshot? How old was your previous headshot?
I had never sought a professional headshot before, so the ones I had didn't truly capture my identity. Getting a new headshot was a way for me to start the new year with a portrait that truly resonates with who I am. Now, I see this headshot as a symbol of a fresh beginning and a new phase in my personal and professional life.
How did you feel about your old headshot, and what were you looking for in your new one?
I wasn't satisfied with my previous portrait from 2019 because it felt too staged and didn't capture the look I wanted. For my new headshot, I wanted to present myself as more confident and purposeful in my life. Overall, I aimed to embody the inner strength that I have been nurturing over the past decade while advancing in my professional career and accomplishing my personal goals.
In what ways do you think your new headshot has impacted your business, visibility or job search?
In addition to boosting my confidence and enhancing my social media presence, my new headshot has significantly improved my visibility. I have utilized it as my profile photo for video conferencing and work-related accounts, catching the attention of my colleagues and helping me make a positive first impression.
Have you received any feedback on your new headshot?
Definitely. The feedback on my new headshot has been overwhelmingly positive, with numerous individuals asking about where I had it taken. After seeing my headshot, many have been inspired to update their own portrait, recognizing the potential benefits that a fresh headshot can offer.
How important do you think a professional headshot is for someone in your field?
It is extremely important. While nurses and healthcare professionals may not frequently prioritize obtaining a professional headshot, it plays a crucial role in showcasing your identity to colleagues, employers, and your social media audience, especially while establishing your personal brand. Nurses are often perceived to work in the background, but a professional headshot can help boost the visibility of professions like nursing and other healthcare-related careers, allowing us to better amplify our stories and voices.
What advice would you give to someone considering getting a new headshot?
A professional headshot can make a much bigger impact than you might think. When getting a headshot, consider how you want to be perceived and the emotions you want to convey to your audience. Getting a professional headshot is also incredibly uplifting, and can make you feel better knowing that it reflects your true self, on your terms.
Were you nervous or uncomfortable with the idea of having your photos taken and if so how was the experience in the end?
During the whole process I felt at ease, and excited about the idea of having a portrait that truly met my expectations. The photo session itself was empowering, and I was grateful and happy to see how stunning the photos turned out in the end.
How did you prepare for your headshot session, and do you have any tips for others on how to get ready for theirs?
I selected my outfits ahead of time, and also had my hair and makeup professionally done before the photoshoot so that I would not have to stress. While getting ready for the photoshoot, I recommend getting your hair and makeup done in a way that reflects your true self and makes you feel good. Feeling good before the shoot can positively influence the outcome of the photos.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience or the impact of your new headshot?
If you are on the fence about getting a new headshot and have never had a professional portrait before, I say to go for it! There is so much to gain from a professional headshot that brings out your confidence and shows your authentic self.
How was your experience working with S72 for your headshot session?
Jeff is truly a professional. Collaborating with him was seamless, and he ensured that all my questions were addressed before the photoshoot. Jeff's excellent communication and professionalism stood out, and I was impressed by his ability to highlight all of the characteristics that I wanted to have portrayed in my photos. Jeff is a talented photographer and knows what he is doing - you will not be disappointed!
