The Creation of an Author’s Headshot
Photography by Jeff Cable. Modeling and text by Marc Jedel.
My book, Uncle and Ants: A Silicon Valley Mystery, is a humorous murder mystery. As the marketing blurb goes: “If you like clever humor, sassy side characters, and average Joes facing extraordinary circumstances, then you’ll love this twisty mystery.” At least, I hope you will. Buy the eBook (or paperback) from Amazon.
Jeff Cable is an awesome photographer (his blog here). When he agreed to take my author photos, I was ecstatic. I knew if anyone could make a nearly bald, middle-aged man look good, it would be Jeff (see his picture here). We had a blast brainstorming ideas for a photo shoot to help me create my author’s persona. Then, we realized we didn’t have a corporate budget behind us so the exotic location shots, expensive aerial stunts, and special effects were out. Settling for the next best option, we drove 10 minutes to the nearest Redwoods and he shot the pictures below.
Before Jeff’s photoshoot
Here was my portrait before Jeff worked his magic. Note shameless plug of my book.
The portrait I wanted to use
Marc in another Hawaiian shirt. Jeff is not responsible for the hat, but he did approve it. My brother-in-law vetoed the pic. (I know, I know, who asks their brother-in-law? See my Contact page)
The one Jeff and me wanted to use
Vetoed as the author profile. Apparently it isn’t smart to scare away readers.
Even my Dad said this looked like his father’s portrait
Too boring. Don’t want it to look like it’s from a photo studio in a strip mall.
Way better crossed arms
Ok, I used that pose a lot. This is the “if the NY Times calls” option. (Although I’ll probably still use the Hawaiian shirt one.)
I want YOU … to read my book
Jeff plays with lenses. Even in California, the redwoods don’t grow this wacky.
Clearly my better side
I plan to save this shirt and image for my second book. Nothing like shaking up my loyal readers.
Note compelling new stance
Ok, so it’s the same arm cross. But I am standing on a rock.
Note the sunburst
Seeing is believing. Yes, Jeff will contort his body in unbelievable poses (i.e. he crouched) for the sake of a cool shot.
For the monochromatically-inclined
Jeff thought it was arty. I guess it will come in handy if websites charge me for color.
Almost the winner
Some days this is the winner. Other days I switch to the next one. Many new ways to deal with writer’s block in the modern age.
Marc Jedel Portrait – the “Winner”
It’s like a completely different, more handsome, and much funnier author. It’s on my Amazon author page and elsewhere.