Client Stories: Marketing Agency Owner & Founder Stuart McFaul

Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about what you do? 

I’m Stuart McFaul, I am the founder and owner of a marketing agency that has been around for over 30 years. We primarily help emerging tech companies, but have worked with others and governments across the world.

What motivated you to get a new headshot?  How old was your previous headshot?

My most recent headshot was 10 years old. I changed it because the foundation of my marketing philosophy is authenticity. A picture of me 10 years ago is no longer an authentic representation of who I am.

How did you feel about your old headshot, and what were you looking for in your new one? 

I have never virtually liked any photos that have been taken of me. The last one stayed for so long because it was the only one I liked. However, I needed something to represent who I am today. After looking through a number of photographers, I found the aesthetic sense of this photographer to map best to what I wanted to achieve.

In what ways do you think your new headshot has impacted your business, visibility or job search? 

In the past few years, social media has brought far too many people to rely on façades; me just being myself has always proven to be an advantage. Since my approach to business rests on always being authentic and genuine, my looking like my photo shows others that I walk my talk.

Have you received any feedback on your new headshot?

I have had many people say "Thank god that picture looks how you do and it looks good". To me, that is probably the highest praise I could have received.

How important do you think a professional headshot is for someone in your field? 

I am in the business of packaging and presenting people and companies. A good photo and image that resonates with who I am is core to what I do.

What advice would you give to someone considering getting a new headshot? 

Know yourself. Know the look and feel you want to achieve. Find the photographer that best maps to that. It has been my experience that many photographers are very talented but have limited flexibility in their styles. In the case of this photographer, I found that he had the unique style that I was looking for... even if I didn't know it.

Were you nervous or uncomfortable with the idea of having your photos taken and if so how was the experience in the end? 

I didn't sleep the night before. Having my photo taken is horrific to me. Partially because I despise the sense of being vain and partially I despise the sense that I won't be happy with it. In this case, the speed and confidence in the way the photographer worked, made the experience extremely pleasurable.

How did you prepare for your headshot session, and do you have any tips for others on how to get ready for theirs?

First, get as much rest as you can and relax before coming. Second, wear clothes that not only look good on you, but you are comfortable wearing, that best represent who you are. Thirdly, listen to the photographer.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience or the impact of your new headshot?

The general response has been overwhelmingly favorable. It gave a fresh new look and mood that many felt mapped much better to my personality.

How was your experience working with S72 for your headshot session?

Since I lacked assuredness, I don't think anybody could have made me feel comfortable in advance. However, upon meeting the photographer and jumping right into action, I felt the process mapped how I want to do things; quickly, professionally, and with a great sensitivity to what the other party needs.