COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. -- In a day and age where the vast majority of Department of the Army photographic services are performed under contract, a Colorado Army National Guard Soldier stands as one of only a few military photographers in the region who perform such services, along with the rest of his duties.
Staff Sgt. Benjamin Crane, who has taken hundreds of photos each year since his assignment to the 100th Missile Defense Brigade (Groundbased Midcourse Defense) offers some advice to get oneself or subordinates ready for this critical event.
"The DA photo is more than just a picture to a Soldier. It is a representation of the Soldier's pride, and discipline," Crane said. "In many instances, your DA photo may be the only representation of you to a hiring, promotion or review board. If you look shoddy or are missing pieces of the uniform or awards, board members may assume your level of discipline or work ethic is similarly low whether that be fair or not."
For those who are required to have DA photos (promotable officers and noncommissioned officers), a little research will go a long way to make sure the photograph is done correctly. Aside from having one's uniform dressed-out in accordance with AR 670-1, Crane highly recommends a quick review of AR 640-30 (Photographs for Military Human Resources Records).
He indicated that although most human resource and company/battery headquarters are familiar with the sections of that regulation pertaining to how often photos are required and under what circumstances they have to be updated, most do not delve into the more technical aspects of how the photographs are set up and taken.
Crane said that most Soldiers know they can have someone come with them to assist, making last-minute spot checks, etc., but beyond that, they are not sure what is allowed. According to 640-30, it is perfectly acceptable for pockets, lapels or the front of the jacket to be taped. However, any measure that will alter the appearance of the uniform to make it fit properly such as stuffing, clipping or cinching is specifically prohibited.
Crane also said that many Soldiers indicate to him that their command requires the photo to be shot a particular way, which can be contrary to the regulation.
"One of the most common misperceptions Soldiers come to me with, is how they must be able to see the blue background between their elbows and their waist area. I guess some units think that pose shows how fit or trim the Soldier is," said Crane. "The problem is that the Soldier must turn their body more toward the camera than the required 15 degrees, which distorts the shot. They end up looking like they are trying to emulate a body-builder with their elbows sticking out. When I show them the difference on the camera they understand right away that the specified 15 degree stance is more complimentary."
Another misunderstanding Crane said he frequently experiences is questions about a photographer's ability to "tweak" the photos in some way using computer software. Photographers are authorized to electronically improve image contrast, color balance, and light levels. Soldiers should understand that this is only done to compensate for lighting or camera deficiencies. Altering the appearance of the Soldier or uniform by the use of cloning or healing tools to add or delete items, alter waistlines, or eliminate wrinkles is expressly prohibited.
Crane said that Soldiers can be assured photographers will ensure the best possible settings for the photograph are made, but cannot alter the appearance of the Soldier or their uniform. Asking the photographer to make such alterations is unethical and not appreciated by photographers.
The DA photo is a very important item for nearly every Soldier. Any experienced senior NCO in a Soldier's chain of command who has sat on multiple boards will certainly be able to illustrate this point, and likely tell you how a bad DA photo negatively affected a board's decision about a particular Soldier, indicated Crane.
Aside from a review of AR 640-30 before having a photograph made, Crane recommends these five tips for Soldiers and supervisors to ensure the best possible photograph for this critical event.
1. Do not wait until the last minute to schedule an appointment. In some locations there may be as much as a 60-day backlog. Many boards are cyclic so plan the photo in advance.
2. Review Officer Record Brief, Enlisted Record Brief or other pertinent documents with the orderly room or supervisory personnel to ensure your decorations and devices are up to date and correct.
3. Guard and Reserve unit leadership should attempt to coordinate with photographers in advance to schedule their Soldiers in a single block/group. This can be done during Annual Training when Soldiers will be on duty during the photo studio's work week.
4. If a first line leader hears of a Soldier having an appointment, he or she should personally inspect the Soldier's uniform, or arrange for someone experienced to inspect it before the appointment.
5. Come prepared! Crane recommends uniform bags for all Soldiers as items such as ties or small accoutrements are often forgotten.
"Many times Soldiers will have their uniform dry-cleaned prior to their photo and forget to put items back on it or forget their tie," said Crane. "If Soldiers just kept everything in a uniform bag, they wouldn't forget those things in their sock drawer at home and ruin their appointment."
Editor's Note: In digital cameras, printers and computers, black and white imagery is represented by 256 differing shades of grey known as "Greyscale."
Related Links:
Colorado National Guard website
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