Behind the Scenes at John Hall’s Alaska

John Hall’s Alaska is a tour company based in Lake City, MN. The family-run business offers scenic lodging on Lake Pepin and small-group, guided vacations around the world. We photographed headshots of its managers, drivers, guides, office staff and housekeepers in preparation for the upcoming travel season. Per usual, the best parts of our photo shoot happened before and after the “real” photos were taken. In this first shot, we asked a couple drivers to sit and help us test light.

One employee was extra nervous about having her picture taken because she has Bells Palsy and one of her eyes looks a lot smaller than the other. Scott reassured her he’d take good care of her because he has the same problem. They posed for a pirate photo before Scott snapped her headshot. When she saw her headshot, she cried with relief and happiness. She said it’s the best photo she’s ever had.

These two women are mom and daughter. Clearly, looks, confidence and friendliness run in the family.