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Why Authentic headshots matter

Authentic headshots matter because they create a genuine first impression, build trust, and convey professionalism. In a world where online presence is crucial, a headshot that reflects your true personality can help you stand out. Here’s why authenticity in headshots is so important:

First Impressions Count People form opinions quickly. An authentic headshot ensures that their first impression aligns with who you are—whether you’re approachable, confident, or creative.

Trust and Credibility A natural, unforced expression fosters trust. Authentic headshots show you as you are, which is especially important in fields like healthcare, consulting, or client-facing roles.

Professional Branding Your headshot is often part of your personal or professional brand. Authentic images that represent you accurately can help you attract the right opportunities and connections.

Connection and Relatability People connect with people, not posed photos. An authentic headshot makes you more relatable, whether on LinkedIn, your company’s website, or other professional platforms.

Standing Out in a Crowded Market Stock-like photos can blend in. A headshot that genuinely captures your personality helps you stand out in a sea of overly polished or generic images.

Would you like tips on how to get an authentic headshot or what to communicate to your photographer? Email [email protected] .

#headshots #professional #galway

Great coverage for a A Stitch in Time: An Post celebrates iconic Irish staple with latest stamp collection

New Aran Jumper stamp issue available online at www.anpost.com/Shop

From the Aran Islands to the world, An Post’s Aran Jumper stamps capture the skill and heritage of this much-loved Irish garment

Latest set of stamps form part of ‘Stamp for Ireland’ issue, which highlights resilience, creativity, and Irish identity

An Post’s new stamp issue celebrates sustainability, with Aran jumpers at the heart of sustainable fashion

Wednesday, 18th February 2026: Tomorrow, An Post launches its charming new Aran Jumper stamp issue. Issuing ahead of St. Patrick’s Day, the stamps celebrate a garment, recognised worldwide as a staple of Irish identity.

Designed by illustrator Sally Caulwell, these latest stamps from An Post mark the endurance of the timeless garment, which exudes history and has helped put Ireland on the map internationally.

Originally designed and handknit on the Aran Islands as a water-repellent outer layer for the fisherman of Aran, this iconic jumper has been famously worn by celebrities including Taylor Swift, Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, and the Clancy Brothers.

Aran jumpers have become renowned within the global fashion industry for their deeply symbolic stitch patterns. The garments, which are known for containing around 100,000 stitches per piece, are making a comeback as seen at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games. Irish Winter Olympians are sporting traditional Aran knitwear at the event, which is currently underway.

The Aran Jumper stamp collection features two designs, the N stamp for postage within Ireland features the Aran jumper in mid-knit, with needles and wool. The W stamp for worldwide postage illustrates a completed garment, showcasing Irish craftsmanship to the world.

This latest An Post stamp issue celebrates sustainability, with Aran jumpers offering a long-lasting alternative to fast fashion. They are made with 100% wool, a natural, biodegradable product, making them a timeless garment, offering something old and new. Designed to last, Aran jumpers can be repurposed and repaired, supporting the circular economy in return. In addition, the famous Irish garments are also water-repellent and can absorb 30% of their weight in water before feeling wet, a must-have with recent Irish weather conditions.

Commenting on the launch of the Aran Jumper stamps, Julie Gill, Commercial Marketing Director, Mails & Parcels at An Post, said:

“The Aran jumper has always been one of the most prized garments in Irish households. This stamp issue celebrates the heritage of islands that are rich in culture and storytelling. It also recognises the enduring love and attention Aran jumpers continues to receive from the global fashion industry, renewed once more by people looking for sustainable and long-lasting fashion.

At An Post, supporting SMEs is at the heart of everything we do: we are working continuously to support small business dedicated to Irish knitwear, promoting Irish craft and sustainable fashion to reach new, international audiences.”

This latest stamp issue is available to purchase online at www.anpost.com/Shop and in selected post offices nationwide.

#stamps #arann jumper #aran islands #an post

The Power of Staff Testimonials and Professional Photography in Recruitment and Retention

In today’s competitive job market, businesses are constantly seeking innovative ways to attract top talent and retain their best employees. According to a 2023 LinkedIn report, 75% of job seekers consider an employer's brand before even applying. One highly effective, yet often overlooked strategy, is using staff testimonials alongside professional photographs. This authentic, relatable content not only humanizes the company but also serves as a compelling tool for recruitment, retention, and cost savings.

1. Building Trust and Authenticity

Job seekers today are more discerning than ever. They want to know what it’s truly like to work for an organization, beyond the polished corporate pitch. Testimonials from real employees, paired with genuine, high-quality photos, provide an authentic glimpse into the workplace culture.

Human Connection: Seeing the faces behind the stories fosters a sense of trust and relatability.

Credibility: Prospective employees trust their potential peers more than corporate messaging.

For instance, a testimonial from a long-term team member about growth opportunities, alongside a professional photo of that person in their work environment, can be far more persuasive than any corporate brochure.

2. Enhancing Employer Branding

A strong employer brand is crucial for attracting high-quality candidates. Employee testimonials and photos serve as social proof that the company delivers on its promises.

Website Careers Page: A dedicated section featuring employee stories can significantly boost engagement.

Social Media Impact: Visual content performs better on social platforms, making testimonials with photos more likely to be shared and noticed.

Recruitment Materials: From brochures to presentations, these testimonials become versatile branding assets.

3. Improving Recruitment Efficiency

Employee testimonials act as a pre-screening tool by setting realistic expectations about the workplace culture and job roles. Candidates who resonate with the stories are more likely to apply, while those who don’t are less likely to waste time in the recruitment process.

Higher Quality Applicants: Testimonials attract candidates who align with the company’s values.

Faster Hiring Process: Authentic content helps candidates self-assess their fit for the organization.

4. Boosting Staff Morale and Retention

Recognizing employees by featuring their stories and photos shows that the company values their contributions. This recognition can lead to higher job satisfaction and engagement.

Sense of Pride: Employees feel valued when their experiences are showcased.

Positive Workplace Culture: Sharing positive stories reinforces a strong, supportive company culture.

5. Cost Savings in Recruitment

Recruiting new staff can be expensive, with costs including job advertisements, recruitment agency fees, and time spent on interviews. Average Costs in Ireland In Ireland, recruitment agency fees generally align with these models. For standard positions, fees can range from 15% to 20% of the candidate's first-year salary, increasing to 20% to 30% for specialised or executive roles. (28 Feb 2024). By leveraging existing staff testimonials and professional photos, companies can significantly reduce these expenses.

Reduced Advertising Costs: Authentic stories organically attract candidates through social media and the company website.

Lower Turnover Rates: When new hires have realistic job expectations from the start, they are more likely to stay long-term.

Conclusion:

Incorporating staff testimonials and professional photography into recruitment efforts is a cost-effective, impactful strategy. It builds trust, strengthens employer branding, improves recruitment outcomes, boosts staff morale, and ultimately saves money. In a world where job seekers are inundated with options, showcasing the real faces and voices behind your company can make all the difference in attracting and retaining top talent.

What to Wear for a Professional Headshot: XPOSURE’s Guide

As a photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how wardrobe choices can make or break a professional headshot. The right outfit not only enhances your appearance but also communicates confidence, professionalism, and personality. Whether you’re a man or a woman, here are my top tips for choosing the perfect attire for your headshot session.

https://www.andrewdownes.net/gallery/Head-shot-examples/G0000fVFJmLYIfZg

1. What Men Should Wear for a Professional Headshot

Men’s headshot attire should be classic, timeless, and tailored to their industry. Here’s what I recommend:

Tops:

- Button-Down Shirts: A well-fitted dress shirt in solid colors like white, light blue, or gray is a safe and polished choice. Avoid loud patterns or overly bright colors that can distract from your face.

- Blazers or Suit Jackets: If you want to convey authority or professionalism, layer a blazer or suit jacket over your shirt. Stick to neutral tones like navy, charcoal, or black.

- Polo Shirts: For a more casual yet professional look (ideal for creative industries), a fitted polo in a solid color works well.

Bottoms:

- While your headshot may not show your pants, wearing tailored trousers or dress pants can help you feel more put-together and confident during the session.

Accessories:

- Ties: A simple, solid-colored tie or one with a subtle pattern can add sophistication. Avoid overly bold or distracting designs.

- Watches: A classic watch can add a touch of elegance, but keep it minimal.

Fit and Fabric:

- Ensure your clothing fits well—nothing too tight or too loose. Wrinkled or ill-fitting clothes can detract from your professionalism.

- Opt for fabrics that photograph well, like cotton or wool, and avoid shiny materials that can create glare under studio lights.

Grooming:

- Pay attention to grooming details like a fresh haircut, trimmed facial hair, and clean nails. These small touches make a big difference in the final image.

2. What Women Should Wear for a Professional Headshot

Women have a bit more flexibility when it comes to headshot attire, but the key is to keep it professional and flattering. Here’s my advice:

Tops:

- Blouses or Button-Downs: A tailored blouse in a solid color or subtle pattern (like pinstripes or small florals) is a great choice. Stick to neutral tones like white, cream, or soft pastels.

- Blazers or Structured Jackets: A blazer adds a professional touch and helps define your shoulders, creating a strong silhouette.

- Dresses: A simple, well-fitted dress in a solid color can be both elegant and professional. Avoid overly busy prints or plunging necklines.

Bottoms:

- If you’re wearing separates, opt for tailored pants or a pencil skirt. Even if they’re not visible in the headshot, they’ll help you feel confident and polished.

Accessories:

- Jewelry: Keep it minimal and classic. Stud earrings, a delicate necklace, or a simple bracelet can add a touch of elegance without distracting from your face.

- Scarves: A lightweight scarf in a complementary color can add interest to your outfit, but avoid overly bold patterns.

Fit and Fabric:

- Choose clothing that fits well and flatters your body shape. Avoid anything too tight or too loose.

- Opt for fabrics that drape nicely and don’t wrinkle easily, like silk, cotton, or knit blends.

Makeup and Hair:

- Keep makeup natural and polished. Focus on enhancing your features rather than going for a dramatic look.

- Style your hair in a way that feels authentic to you, whether it’s down, in a sleek ponytail, or a soft updo.

General Tips for Both Men and Women

1. Know Your Industry: Dress for the role or industry you’re in. A corporate lawyer’s headshot will look different from a creative director’s.

2. Avoid Distractions: Steer clear of busy patterns, logos, or overly bright colors that can take attention away from your face.

3. Bring Options: If you’re unsure, bring a few outfit choices to your session. Your photographer can help you decide what works best under the lighting and backdrop.

4. Focus on Fit: Ill-fitting clothes can ruin an otherwise great headshot. Tailored outfits always look better in photos.

5. Be Yourself: Your headshot should reflect your personality and brand. Choose clothing that makes you feel confident and authentic.

Final Thoughts

As a photographer, my goal is to capture your best self in a headshot. The right wardrobe plays a huge role in achieving that. By following these tips, you’ll ensure that your clothing enhances your professional image rather than detracting from it. Remember, a great headshot is an investment in your personal brand—so dress the part!

If you’re still unsure about what to wear, don’t hesitate to consult with your photographer beforehand. We’re here to help you look and feel your best!

Ready to book your professional headshot session? Contact me today to schedule your appointment! [email protected]

#headshots #head shots #profile photo #professional #studio #remote studio #in office #on site #portable studio

Banana bread, selfies and social distancing:

the first major English-Irish dictionary in over 60 years published

Foras na Gaeilge‘s Concise English-Irish Dictionary published

In an online event at 1pm today Friday, on Foras na Gaeilge’s Facebook Page, President Michael D. Higgins will officially launch the Concise English-Irish Dictionary.

Joining us will be personalities and household names such as, Dara Ó Briain, Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh, Mary McAleese and many more as they share their experiences with, and grá for our national language.

The new dictionary contains 1,800 pages, over 30,000 entries, 85,000 word senses and 1.8 million words in contemporary English and Irish. Produced by Foras na Gaeilge, the dictionary is the first major English-Irish Dictionary to be published in over sixty years (since Tomás de Bhaldraithe’s seminal English-Irish Dictionary in 1959).

The entries are derived from the hugely popular New English-Irish Dictionary website, www.focloir.ie, which attracts over two million visitors a year.

The aim of the dictionary project is to produce a comprehensive modern dictionary which would represents

current usage not only in Irish but also in English as it is spoken in Ireland;

the main dialects of contemporary Irish;

a broad range of language from the most technical to the most informal.

Chief Editor Pádraig Ó Mianáin said of the new dictionary:

“The New English-Irish Dictionary brings Irish-language lexicography into the third millennium with its emphasis on currency in both Irish and English and its coverage of all levels of language use, from formal to informal and from written to spoken. The New English-Irish Dictionary has been online since 2013 and now attracts over 2 million users worldwide annually, with over a quarter of them from overseas.

“When the online version was completed, production of a printed version began. In order to produce a one-volume dictionary, over a third of the content in the online dictionary (which contains 48k entries and 145k word senses) had to be left out and the remaining content had to undergo significant editing and reformatting. We are delighted that the dictionary is now available, and to have this opportunity to launch it with the President today.”

Interesting Entries and Translations

To celebrate this milestone, Foras na Gaeilge are highlighting some of the newer and more interesting entries and translations, including some that have recently come to prominence during the coronavirus pandemic:

home office – oifig bhaile

fake news – bréagnuacht

selfie – féinín

he’s a savage player – is imreoir den scoth é

banana bread – arán banana

social distancing – scaradh sóisialta

pandemic – paindéim

coronavirus – coróinvíreas

cyberbullying – cibearbhulaíocht

online banking – baincéireacht ar líne

Brexit – Breatimeacht

the latest political wrangle – an t-aighneas polaitiúil is déanaí

to make a hames of something – praiseach a dhéanamh de rud

it’s at your own risk – ar do phriacal féin atá sé

it was nothing to write home about – bhí sé cuibheasach gan a bheith maíteach

I wouldn’t hold it against her – ní bheinn anuas uirthi mar gheall air

to make a laughing stock of somebody – ceap magaidh a dhéanamh de dhuine

to rest on your laurels – do mhaidí a ligean le sruth

The printed dictionary also contains a substantial Language and Grammar section with essays and tables covering topics such as style, translation and grammar information.

It is available in bookshops and online now with an RRP of €30/£25.

Contact: For additional information, interviews and imagery please contact:

Cormac Breathnach, Foras na Gaeilge,

Tel: 086 194 5633

Email: [email protected]

Loretta Ní Ghabháin Lorg Media, Baile Nua, Maigh Cuilinn, Co. na Gaillimhe

Phone - 087 799 7981 Email - [email protected]

Banana bread, selfies and social distancing:

the first major English-Irish dictionary in over 60 years published

Concise English-Irish Dictionary Fhoras na Gaeilge foilsithe

In ócáid ar líne inniu, Dé hAoine, ar leathanach Facebook Fhoras na Gaeilge, seolfaidh an tUachtarán Micheál D. Ó hUigínn an Concise English-Irish Dictionary go hoifigiúil.

In éineacht linn ag an ócáid beidh daoine mór le rá amhail Dara Ó Briain, Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh, Mary McAleese agus go leor eile. Roinnfidh siad linn a gcuid taithí leis an nGaeilge agus an dáimh atá acu leis an teanga náisiúnta.

San fhoclóir nua tá 1,800 leathanach, breis is 30,000 iontráil, 85,000 aonad céille agus 1.8 milliún focal i mBéarla agus i nGaeilge na linne seo. Foras na Gaeilge a d’fhoilsigh an foclóir, an chéad cheann Béarla-Gaeilge dá leithéid a foilsíodh le breis is seasca bliain anuas (ó foilsíodh English-Irish Dictionary Thomáis de Bhaldraithe in 1959).

Bunaíodh na hiontrálacha ar an ábhar atá ar shuíomh mór-ráchairte an Fhoclóra Nua Béarla-Gaeilge, www.focloir.ie, a mbíonn breis is dhá mhilliún duine in aghaidh na bliana á úsáid.

Sprioc an tionscadail ná foclóir cuimsitheach nua-aimseartha a tháirgeadh ina mbeadh:

cumhdach cuimsitheach ar Ghaeilge agus ar Bhéarla na linne seo mar a labhraítear in Éirinn iad;

cumhdach cothrom ar phríomhchanúintí na Gaeilge;

réimse leathan teanga ón gcuid is teicniúla go dtí an réim is neamhfhoirmeálta.

Arsa Príomheagarthóir an Fhoclóra, Pádraig Ó Mianáin:

“Tugtar tús áite don teanga bheo, sa Bhéarla agus sa Ghaeilge, san Fhoclóir Nua Béarla-Gaeilge, rud a thugann foclóireacht na Gaeilge isteach sa tríú mílaois. Clúdaítear gach uile leibhéal d’úsáid na teanga, ón réim fhoirmeálta go dtí an chuid is neamhfhoirmeálta, ón fhocal scríofa go dtí an focal labhartha. Tá an Foclóir Nua Béarla-Gaeilge ar líne ó 2013 agus tá breis is dhá mhilliún duine ag tarraingt ar an suíomh gach bliain as gach cearn den domhan.

“Nuair a cuireadh críoch leis an leagan ar líne, cuireadh tús le táirgeadh an leagain chlóite. Chun foclóir aon imleabhair a tháirgeadh, ba ghá níos mó ná aon trian den fhoclóir ar líne (ina bhfuil 48k iontráil agus 145k aonad céille) a fhágáil ar lár, agus ba ghá eagarthóireacht agus athfhormáidiú suntasach a dhéanamh ar an chuid eile. Is mór an sásamh dúinn an foclóir a bheith foilsithe agus an deis seo a bheith againn é a sheoladh in éineacht leis an Uachtarán inniu.”

Iontrálacha agus Aistriúcháin Spéisiúla

Seo thíos roinnt iontrálacha suimiúla atá san fhoclóir nua, cuid acu atá tagtha i dtreis le linn phaindéim an choróinvíris:

home office – oifig bhaile

fake news - bréagnuacht

selfie – féinín

he’s a savage player – is imreoir den scoth é

banana bread – arán banana

social distancing – scaradh sóisialta

pandemic – paindéim

coronavirus – coróinvíreas

cyberbullying – cibearbhulaíocht

online banking – baincéireacht ar líne

Brexit – Breatimeacht

the latest political wrangle – an t-aighneas polaitiúil is déanaí

to make a hames of something – praiseach a dhéanamh de rud

it’s at your own risk – ar do phriacal féin atá sé

it was nothing to write home about – bhí sé cuibheasach gan a bheith maíteach

I wouldn’t hold it against her – ní bheinn anuas uirthi mar gheall air

to make a laughing stock of somebody – ceap magaidh a dhéanamh de dhuine

to rest on your laurels – do mhaidí a ligean le sruth

Tá forlíonadh mór teanga agus gramadaí san fhoclóir chomh maith, áit a bhfuil aistí agus táblaí a chlúdaíonn cúrsaí stíle, aistriúcháin agus gramadaí.

Tá sé ar díol i siopaí leabhar agus ar líne anois. An PMM atá air ná €30/£25.

Teagmháil: chun agallaimh a eagrú nó chun tuilleadh íomhánna a fháil, déan teagmháil le

Contact: For additional information, interviews and imagery please contact: Cormac Breathnach, Foras na Gaeilge, Fón: 086 194 5633 Ríomhphost: [email protected]

Loretta Ní Ghabháin Lorg Media, Baile Nua, Maigh Cuilinn, Co. na Gaillimhe

Fón - 087 799 7981 Ríómphost - [email protected]

#English-Irish dictionary #dictionary

Might be a while before an tone comes to take off the green (#stpatricksday ) Filter’s . #dunguairecastle @kinvara #covid_19 (at Dunguaire Castle) https://www.instagram.com/p/B-QNjfbJ7G0/?igshid=19z82tqfws1bm

#stpatricksday #dunguairecastle #covid_19

Looking forward to opening ceremony @galway2020 sat evening! https://www.instagram.com/p/B8Pdt_HpB5N/?igshid=1k2ls8dmdzm9n

The brilliant @rofijames playing a blinder in portumna @galway2020 launch https://www.instagram.com/p/B8PdZHbpItD/?igshid=qddykoltl1uy

Thanks @irishtimesnews images of the day alway worth a look 👀. Congrats to the organizers of @galwaysciencefestival for another exciting and interesting expo (at Nuig Main Campus (Beside The College Bar)) https://www.instagram.com/p/B5SStw8Joc1/?igshid=oytgjy2ywhv3

locked ! So sad really https://www.instagram.com/p/B5JERCpJ0Wh/?igshid=2e1ciwj2cq0f

Hibernation! https://www.instagram.com/p/B5JD9a5p6Dy/?igshid=kzqk01k1eacf

It’s an upside down world we live in ! #new York photo (at New York, New York) https://www.instagram.com/p/B5JDLdDJn_3/?igshid=g973va2md3ga

#new

17/06/2019 Young adults' author Catherine (Cat) Doyle

08/07/2019 Gathering in Galway for the 31st Galway Film Fleadh which opened last night (TUESDAY 9/7 )Dara Devaney ( An Klondike (2015), An Bronntanas (2014) and Corp & Anam (2011) who stars in Finky at this year's Galway Film Fleadh surrounded by stalwarts of the profession with six Emmy Awards for her television work and a Tony Award, Tyne Daly known for Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017), Judging Amy (1999) and Cagney & Lacey (1981) and our very own Fionnula Flanagan IFTA Lifetime Achievement Award winner in 2012. Flanagan is known for her roles in the films James Joyce's Women and The Others, for the latter of which she won a Saturn Award.

Daly is in Galway to promote small town comedy drama 'A Bread Factory', which she is starring in.

She is also attending a special screening of 'Cagney and Lacey' at the Town Hall Theatre on Thursday afternoon, where there will also be a discussion on the connection between feminist film theory and the iconic series.

This year there are 95 feature films, ten world premieres and 150 short films on the fleadh's line-up, and more than 40% of the cinematic material is by female filmmakers.

Photo:Andrew Downes, xposure.

Love this image I took in Uganda while over there with @self_help_africa . (at Uganda) https://www.instagram.com/p/BuJUPKtnsWO/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=3qbkt8061o2q

Irish CEOs are taking a new approach and looking at ways to help each other grow their businesses internationally. The latest event in the ‘How to’ of Going Global series organised by KPMG and supported by Business Achievers, Ulster Bank and Enterprise Ireland was held in Galway on 19th February 2019.

Science Week 2018 - Teagasc Athenry

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