What if your photos are the reason event planners are not booking you?

In this episode of Path to the Main Stage, host Li Hayes pulls back the curtain on one of the most overlooked secrets to a thriving speaking career: your visual brand isn’t about you—it’s about them! Forget everything you thought you knew about headshots. Li sits down with acclaimed photographer John DeMato, whose images don’t just capture a face, but the soul and brand behind the speaker. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve got years on the stage, this conversation reveals the essential ways your photos can either propel you into the spotlight or leave you invisible in a crowded market.

Key highlights include:

• Why your photos must speak to the audience’s needs, not your own vanity
• The critical difference between a headshot and a comprehensive visual library (and why you need both!)
• How to spot red flags when hiring a photographer—and the one tip that might save your reputation
• The magic of “visual evidence” images (spoiler: it’s more than just you on stage)
• Practical hacks for capturing your essence—even if you’re DIY’ing with a smartphone
• Why updating your image is non-negotiable (stop hiding behind that 10-year-old photo!)
• Actionable advice for gathering branding, live event, and candid shots that make you relatable—and bookable

Whether you want to stand out at a glance or build lasting relationships with decision makers, this episode delivers the goods on how to visually show up with credibility, authority, and authenticity.

Timestamped Overview:

[00:00:00] – Li Hayes introduces the importance of visual branding for speakers

[00:02:38] – John DeMato shares his journey from TV producer to speaker photographer

[00:06:17] – The power of “it’s about them, not you” in photography and branding

[00:09:04] – What makes up a speaker’s essential visual portfolio

[00:11:32] – How to build (and evolve) your portfolio over time

[00:16:22] – Tips for getting headshots that capture your true essence—and common mistakes

[00:21:31] – Red flags to watch out for when hiring a photographer

[00:24:43] – Turning one branding session into months of marketing content

[00:28:15] – Incorporating color, style, and personality into your branding photos

[00:31:03] – The importance of capturing pre/during/post-event images

[00:33:41] – Leveraging candid smartphone photos to create authentic connection

[00:36:15] – DIY hacks for getting your first decent headshot

[00:38:22] – John’s advice to his younger self—and the importance of making it about the client

[00:40:00] – Where to find and contact John DeMato

Ready to finally let your photos open doors to bigger stages? Tune in, take notes, and step up your visual game!