As an event photographer in DC who captures numerous speakers in action, I've learned the importance of helping speakers present their best selves both on stage and in photos. Here are some valuable tips to ensure you're well-prepared for your next speaking engagement:

• Opt for solid colors. Elevate your style by choosing solid colors for your attire. If patterns are a must, keep them subtle to maintain a polished appearance.
• Utilize two-handed counting. Avoid unintentional visual cues by adopting American Sign Language numbers—where '1' is represented by the index finger and '2' by the middle finger. This way, you can steer clear of gestures that may be misconstrued (e.g., using '1' as your thumb and '2' as your pointer finger, which ends up looking like a gun). 
• Face your palms up while speaking. Convey openness, honesty, and trustworthiness by positioning your palms upwards during your presentation. This subtle gesture enhances your overall connection with the audience.
• Conceal water bottles and labels. Minimize distractions by placing any plastic water bottles on the floor or inside the podium. Ensure that labeled bottles are out of sight, and opt for a plain or on-brand porcelain cup if available.
• Ditch the name badge. As the speaker, your identity is already known. Removing the name badge eliminates potential distractions and allows the audience to focus solely on your message.
• Maintain eye contact. Engage with your audience by looking up and around while speaking. Avoid reading verbatim whenever possible, as this allows for dynamic and visually appealing DC event photos capturing your connection with the audience.
• Mind your posture. Stand tall and maintain a confident posture. A strong and upright stance not only exudes confidence but also contributes to a more captivating stage presence.
• Practice vocal variety. Capture your audience's attention by varying your tone, pitch, and pace. A dynamic vocal delivery keeps listeners engaged and enhances the overall impact of your message.

By implementing these tips, not only will your public speaking skills shine, but the resulting DC event photography will capture the essence of your message and leave a lasting impression on your audience.