Capturing Authentic Portraits: Because Fake Smiles Are So Last Year

By Alan McAleavey Photography – Portrait & Personal Branding Photographer, Wirral

Let’s have a quick word about portraits.

We’ve all been there. Standing awkwardly in front of a camera, doing that half-smile we hope makes us look both approachable and wildly successful. Spoiler: it usually just makes us look like we’re holding in a sneeze.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. Whether you’re a business owner, freelancer, or someone simply trying to look less “year 9 school photo” and more “professional but still very much a real human,” capturing authentic portraits can change the game for how you present yourself and your business.

So, what do we mean by ‘authentic’?

Authentic portraits are the ones that actually look like you. Not some overly airbrushed, stiff version of you, but the real, relaxed, confident you—the one your clients, customers or colleagues actually work with.

No forced poses.No weird studio lights that make you look like you’re in witness protection.Just simple, professional photography that lets your personality shine through.

Why do authentic portraits matter?

Because people buy from people. Whether you're trying to build trust, land a new client, or just stop using that cropped holiday pic from 2017 on your LinkedIn profile (you know the one), a strong, honest portrait gives your audience a face they can connect with.

Authentic portraits:

• Help build credibility

• Make you instantly more approachable

• Improve engagement across your website and social media

• Support your personal and professional brand

And bonus? They age a lot better than gimmicky trends.

What’s the secret to capturing the ‘real you’?

Honestly? A bit of planning, a bit of chatting, and a photographer who doesn’t say things like “Give me more smoulder.”

When we work together, it’s relaxed. I guide you, we laugh a bit (usually at me), and we capture you in a way that feels natural—not posed or forced. My calm, down-to-earth approach helps even the most camera-shy people feel at ease.

No drama. No pressure. No pretending to be someone you’re not.

🎯 Limited-Time Offer for Wirral Businesses

To celebrate six months of Alan McAleavey Photography (and the fact I’ve finally stopped tweaking my website), I’m offering a limited number of businesses a discounted authentic portrait session—perfect for updating your team photos, personal branding, or professional profiles.

Only 5 sessions available at this special rate. Once they’re gone, they’re gone.

What’s included:

• A relaxed portrait session at your location or mine

• A selection of professionally edited images

• Advice on where and how to use them effectively

• No awkward posing, guaranteed

📅 Book by 15/06/2025 to secure your session📩 Get in touch now or email alan.mcaleavey.photogrpahy@gmail.com

Final thoughts

Authentic portraits aren’t about perfection—they’re about connection. And in a world full of over-polished content, showing up as yourself might just be your biggest advantage.

So if your current headshot looks more “tax return panic” than “trustworthy professional,” let’s change that.