Susan Jefferson

Princeton University recently published the results of work modelling first impressions from 1,000 photographs. Not only did the researchers discover that perceptions of trustworthiness, attractiveness and dominance were entirely predictable but that earlier work at Princeton discovered that 'first impressions' were made within milliseconds of seeing a portrait. Perhaps more worryingly, staring at the picture for longer only re-inforced first impressions. The commercial implications are clear: we are visual creatures and in today's connected world, often the first impression we make is through our portrait on the firm's website. What image is right for your target market? It is tempting to believe that smiling broadly creates a warm, approachable impression. In some cases it does; but is it appropriate for the whole team? Often 'camera smiles' are forced; necks and shoulders are a little tense and seeing an uncomfortable smile on everyone's face can create t...

Facial recognition software, combined with CCTV and increasing connectivity represents perhaps the greatest threat to personal freedom. The ability for a complete stranger to download your full personal history whilst you queue for a Latte is a technical reality. Facebook recently decided not to offer its  photo-sharing app Moments in  Europe because of regulator concerns over its facial recognition technology. Photography: Grey. Make Up: Hattie Florey, Model: Chloe Wainwright, Published: The Upcoming. But it is available elsewhere and not everybody plays by the rules. So how to protect yourself from unwanted intrusion? Camouflage make-up, designed to fool high definition CCTV cameras and software? It may be before a night out we don't just get 'glammed up' we also camm-up. Photography: Grey. Make Up: Hattie Florey, Model: Lewis Good, Published: The Upcoming. Camera Unfriendly  is part of an ongoing project to explore how camouflage makeup and fashion combine to complete a ...