Last week the Flying Irish did its annual group photo portrait in Riverfront Park. Even though a lot of people were going to be in the photo, I wanted to make myself stand out above all others. A few days beforehand, I went to the site of the photo shoot and scoped things out to determine the perfect spot and perfect pose.

The Flying Irish group photo site at Riverfront Park.

I analyzed the scene and divided it into quadrants to evaluate for optimal positioning.

Distance from camera is a crucial factor. Most people think being in the front row is the best place. Not necessarily so! I used a tape measure to arrive at the ideal camera-to-subject distance. I also found standing on higher ground will lend greater prominence.

Afterward, I spent a few hours practicing a variety of poses, each conveying one of my many different moods and attributes. Below are ones that made the final cut. I spent the evening before the shoot evaluating them before making my final choice.

Happy, friendly and jolly – that’s me.

I’m one tough running hombre.

I’m having a great time.

I salute runners everywhere.

Hi! Want to run with me?.

I’m a proud soldier of the Flying Irish Army.

Below is the 2015 official Flying Irish group portrait. It turned out great, and I think I look just dandy.

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