24/08/2026
I’ve started exploring a new dichotomy and this interview is the first time I’ve said it publicly.
I believe we are being poisoned by the current push for “Visibility”. Photographers and ‘personal brand’ types are all talking about being more visible. And I guess that’s interpreted as bigger, bolder… which to me translates as ‘more obvious’.
So most people getting headshots seem to want what I call the ‘Mic Drop’ moments. And we do that (if that’s what you want). But what absolutely blows people away are the ‘Pin Drop’ moments that no one is expecting.
I’m talking about images of such simple, quiet clarity that actually express a thousand times more than a big, ‘nuclear smile’ ever will.
Bigger and bolder and more audacious is a weird race that I’m not interested competing in. But subtle precision… laser-like presence… a quiet, warm wisdom… The pin drop moments. Thats who I love working with. Because that’s what grabs the right people’s attention.
Thanks for having me Richard Triggs!
How do you create a professional image that genuinely feels like you?
In this episode of the Arete Podcast, Richard Triggs sits down with Jason Malouin, founder of Superpower Portraits, to explore personal presence, professional identity and the power of showing up authentically.
Jason shares his journey from live theatre and wilderness guiding to becoming a highly specialised professional photographer in Australia.
The conversation covers why powerful portraits need to communicate more than appearance, how Jason helps people move through discomfort in front of the camera, and his approach to capturing both the “mic drop” and “pin drop” sides of a person.
A fascinating conversation for executives, business owners and professionals stepping into a bigger chapter of their careers.
Listen now on our website or via your podcast streaming platform. Watch the full video podcast on our YouTube.
https://youtu.be/3t2NspK09gY