A Portrait with Altitude: Photographing Leadership at JFK Airport

As a professional portrait photographer in New York City, I’m always seeking locations that blend visual impact with authentic storytelling. Recently, I had the unique opportunity to photograph Margarita, the Head of Parking Services for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. The images will be used for a transportation magazine. The rooftop of the Terminal 5 parking garage at JFK Airport — a location few would consider or think of considering.

Why Terminal 5’s Parking Garage?

At first glance, a parking structure might seem an unlikely spot for an executive portrait session. But JFK’s Terminal 5 rooftop offers more than just concrete and cars. With sweeping views of runways, planes in motion, and the iconic JetBlue terminal architecture in the background, the location gave us a striking blend of industrial edge and aviation energy — the perfect visual metaphor for leadership in motion.

Final Thoughts

As a NYC-based portrait photographer, I’m grateful for opportunities that get me out of the studio, away from the norm, and celebrate the extraordinary. It’s way I love my job, and it’s why I consider this job the best job in the world! This shoot atop JFK Terminal 5 was one of those moments — blending aviation, architecture, and leadership presence into a portrait session that was truly above the ordinary.

If you’re looking for executive portraits in NYC that tell your story with authenticity and vision, let’s talk. I specialize in environmental portraits that go beyond the surface to capture who you are and what you lead.

Jonathan Heisler is a Professional New York City Photographer specializing in Headshots / Portraits.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HIRING THIS NYC PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER

Portrait Session For a University Alumni Magazine

As a NYC headshot photographer, I have clients of all different types, with all different goals. Sometimes our headshot photos are used for LinkedIn profile photographs, other times for company website sites and branding, and other times to accompany the written word in print/digital magazines. Today’s session highlighted two Binghamton University Alumn and their fantasy sports publication RotoBaller.

Whether you call it a headshot session or a portrait session, we transform your values in to compelling visuals called a photograph.

Jonathan Heisler is a Professional New York City Photographer specializing in Headshots / Portraits.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HIRING THIS NYC PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER

Award Dinner Headshot - Young Voices

At a recent honoree fundraiser in New York City, I had the privilege of photographing professionals, students, and honorees—all with unique stories, outfits, and personalities. My goal was simple: to capture headshots that reveal not just how people look, but how they feel—confident, ready, and true to themselves.

Instead of sticking only to traditional backdrops, this session embraced both classic and environmental settings. Some shots were taken indoors against clean, neutral backgrounds—great for formal portraits. Others used NYC’s streets and architecture to add character and context to each person’s photo. Variety in posing, lighting, and location helped bring out authenticity.

We experimented with different looks: seated portraits, standing poses, relaxed smiles, and serious expressions. I encouraged participants to bring outfits they love—something that reflects who they are. By offering options and switching looks, I helped ensure that after the shoot, each honoree had a headshot that felt like them.

Why Headshots Matter:

• Headshots are often the first impression—whether for bio pages, social media, press releases, or event programs.

• They help convey professionalism, warmth, and credibility.

• In a fundraising/honoree setting, showing individuals in their moment of recognition adds emotional power.

• A well-shot headshot makes people feel seen, confident, and prepared to shine in whatever comes next.

Tips for a Successful Headshot Session at Events:

• Wardrobe & Style: Bring at least 2 outfits—one formal, one more casual. Choose colors you feel good in. Avoid huge logos or patterns that distract.

• Lighting: Make use of natural light when possible. Indoor lighting works, but soft, even light tends to flatter more.

• Locations Matter: Neutral backgrounds are classic, but environmental backdrops (city streets, structures, architecture) add personality.

• Poses & Expressions: Try different moods—serious, smiling, candid. Slight changes in posture or tilt can make big differences.

• Mind the Time & Flow: For fundraisers, schedule time blocks so people aren’t rushed. Group photos should have quick transitions to respect everyone’s schedule.

Every person deserves a headshot that makes them feel confident and authentic. Whether you're being honored, fundraising, or simply looking for a new professional portrait, Jonathan Heisler Photography is here to help you look & feel your best. Ready for your headshot moment? Let’s chat.

Award Dinner Honoree Headshot Session

The following quick headshot session is for a long time non-profit client based in Manhattan. The subject photographed will be honored at their annual award dinner in September. The images I captured will not only be used in print and digital materials throughout the venue this September, but in marketing and advertising material leading up to the event and post event.

Portraits at the NYC Transit Museum

If you’re trying to a make a movie, a television show, or a commercial in New York City with an MTA bus or Subway car, you’ll have to reach out to Ruthie. Ruthie is a SUNY Binghamton University alumni now in charge of MTA casting. Last Friday, I met Ruthie at the NYC Transit Museum in Brooklyn to capture headshots which will be used in an upcoming alumni magazine feature. In Ruthie’s photos I wanted to show off key elements of the NYC subway system (stations, trains, signage) alongside Ruthie’s confident personality.