Two approaches to establishing authority in images
Need to establish your authority visually without being cheesy?
Here are two images of artist, writer, and former college professor Laura, both positioning Laura with authority, but in different ways.
Align with the Implicit Values of a Significant Setting
The first image bespeaks formality, seriousness, alignment with tradition and institutions. The photo is structured around a single vertical Greek column. Laura maintains a level gaze and a sense of equanimity, though her blouse is casual. It's an Authority image with much of the authority carried by her implied alignment with the stability of the column. Almost like standing under the wing of your older, bigger brother.
Use Provocative Body Language, Gesture and Expression
The second image is a provocative image. In the background is an I-beam jutting out at an angle, a section cut away, like a doorway, offering additional sharp angles. Laura's legs-crossed pose on the bench is all sharp angles too, knees and elbows jutting out. Even the way she cups her chin in her hand has an angularity about it. The angles of Laura's body play with and dominate the angles and planes of the i-beam, sometimes aligning, sometimes crossing. Combined with her penetrating gaze and Mona Lisa smile, Laura comes across as dynamic, delightfully mysterious, self-possessed and even challenging. It's an Authority image as well, but the authority lies entirely within Laura. There’s a kind of take-me-as-I-am insouciance to her.
These strategies can help to position yourself authoritatively with your clientele/audience.
