Public Speaking Tips from a Washington DC Event Photographer

As a Washington, D.C. event photographer, I’ve had the privilege of photographing countless keynote speakers, panelists, and presenters at everything from high-level conferences to grassroots fundraisers. I’m often just feet from the stage, capturing the energy, expressions, and gestures that define a speaker’s presence. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: how you present yourself on stage doesn’t just affect your audience—it shows up in every photo, too.

Whether you’re addressing a room of industry peers or delivering a message to potential donors, how you carry yourself visually is just as important as what you say. Great public speaking photos can elevate your personal brand, add polish to your professional portfolio, and give your event lasting impact on social media and marketing materials.

Here are some key tips—many learned firsthand from behind the lens—to help you shine on stage and look great in every frame.

Make it stand out

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

1. Stick to Solid Colors

When it comes to clothing, solid colors photograph best. Bright, saturated colors like royal blue, emerald green, or rich burgundy tend to pop without overwhelming the frame. Neutrals like navy, charcoal, and beige are also strong choices.

Avoid busy patterns, stripes, or tiny prints—they often “buzz” in photos or create visual clutter, especially in event lighting. If you love prints, choose subtle ones and make sure they don’t distract from your face or gestures.

Also, be mindful of the backdrop or event colors. If you’ll be speaking in front of a branded step-and-repeat or colorful LED wall, choose clothing that contrasts enough to stand out clearly.

Bonus Tip: Make sure your outfit is wrinkle-free and fits well. Ill-fitting clothing, bunching, or pulling fabric can be surprisingly noticeable in photos.

2. Count with Two Hands

Many speakers instinctively use one hand when counting out their points—starting with a closed fist and raising a thumb for “one,” then a finger for “two.” But this can look awkward or even confusing from certain angles.

Instead, try using both hands—or better yet, use American Sign Language numbers. Holding up your index finger for “1” and your index and middle finger for “2” (a peace sign) is more universally recognized and more photogenic.

Why does this matter? Photos of speakers holding up a single thumb or making an ambiguous gesture can easily be misinterpreted or feel less polished. Using intuitive hand gestures helps reinforce your message in an engaging, clear way.

3. Use Palms-Up Gestures

Gestures can make or break your presence on stage—and in photos. One of the best ways to appear confident, approachable, and honest is to use palms-up gestures when speaking.

Palms-up gestures are subconsciously associated with openness and trust. They also allow your hands to be clearly seen in photos, which adds dimension and energy to the frame. Compare this to pointing or closed-fist gestures, which can seem aggressive or tense, especially in still images.

Try this: Practice speaking with your hands open at about waist or chest height, palms facing up or slightly outward. It’ll feel natural with time, and your photos will look far more dynamic and expressive.

4. Hide Water Bottles with Labels

Hydration is important, but clutter on stage is not. If you’re bringing water with you, avoid branded or crinkled plastic bottles. The shiny plastic and bright labels tend to catch the light—and the viewer’s eye—in ways that draw attention away from you.

Instead, place your water bottle behind the podium, on the floor, or in a discreet spot out of frame. If you prefer to have a drink visible, opt for a sleek, unbranded water bottle or a cup that aligns with the event’s aesthetic (bonus points if it’s your brand’s color or logo).

Photos of an otherwise polished speaker holding a half-empty plastic bottle? It happens more than you’d think. A small detail, but one that really matters.

5. Ditch the Name Badge

This one is easy to forget—but incredibly noticeable in photos. If you’re a featured speaker, your name has likely already been printed in the event program, displayed on screen, or introduced by the emcee. You don’t need a name badge.

And unfortunately, badges can ruin an otherwise professional look. They might twist sideways, reflect light awkwardly, or cover part of your outfit. They’re also hard to Photoshop naturally, especially if the lanyard creates shadows or cuts across your neckline.

Take it off before stepping on stage. Hand it to a staff member or tuck it in your bag—you’ll thank yourself when you see the photos.

6. Look Up and Engage

Your eye contact—or lack of it—can completely change the tone of a photo.

If you’re reading from notes, looking down, or glued to your slides, it limits the photographer’s ability to capture powerful, engaging images. On the other hand, when you look up and connect with the audience, your posture improves, your face is more animated, and you’re more likely to be caught in flattering, dynamic angles.

You don’t have to memorize your speech—but rehearse enough so you can lift your gaze frequently. Make moments for natural eye contact and interaction. It’ll resonate with your audience and with your future audience who sees you through event photos later.

7. Step Away from the Podium

Whenever possible, move beyond the podium. Walking and gesturing naturally makes you appear more confident, creates better visual interest, and gives photographers more opportunities to capture compelling angles.

Podiums can be restrictive, especially for shorter speakers, and they often block part of your body. They also anchor you in one spot, which can result in a series of nearly identical photos. A little movement goes a long way in making your talk—and the photo gallery—feel more vibrant.

If your talk is being recorded, check with AV staff to confirm your microphone setup will still pick up your voice while walking.

8. Smile—But Not Constantly

You don’t have to smile the entire time, but a warm, genuine expression can help soften your features and show your personality.

The key is variation. A thoughtful moment while explaining something serious, a burst of laughter during a light-hearted story, a confident smirk when landing a key point—these are the kinds of expressions that tell a story and photograph beautifully.

Practice your talk with a friend or record yourself to see how your facial expressions come across. Are you unintentionally furrowing your brow? Clenching your jaw? A little awareness can go a long way.

9. Mind the Mic

If you’re wearing a lavalier mic or headset, make sure it’s clipped securely and positioned in a flattering, functional place. Avoid tangled wires, poorly placed clips, or mics that flap when you move.

For handheld mics, hold them at chest level, angled slightly up. Don’t grip them too tightly, and keep your hands relaxed.

Awkward mic placement or a tense grip can be distracting in photos—and audio. A little prep beforehand ensures both your voice and visual presence are at their best.

10. Ask for Photos Ahead of Time

This one’s less about what you do on stage and more about how to ensure you’re seen at your best. If you’re a featured speaker, check in with the event organizers to confirm that a professional photographer will be capturing your talk—and ask if you can receive a few key images afterward.

Many speakers never see the photos taken of them. If you’re investing time and energy in your talk, make sure you get quality visuals to use on LinkedIn, your website, or future speaking engagements. It’s a missed opportunity if you don’t.

If you’re organizing the event, be sure to hire a photographer who knows how to photograph speakers effectively—not just people standing still, but professionals who understand storytelling through imagery.

Final Thoughts

Public speaking is a powerful way to connect with your audience, share your message, and build your brand. As someone who captures these moments for a living, I can say with certainty: the best speakers don’t just sound good—they look good, too.

With a few thoughtful adjustments, you can elevate your presence on stage and walk away with photos that you’re proud to share. Whether you’re stepping onto a TEDx stage, addressing colleagues at a conference, or speaking at a nonprofit gala, these small details can make a big difference.

Need event photos that capture your confidence and charisma? I specialize in photographing speakers in Washington, D.C.—and I’d love to help you shine.