Let’s face it not many of us are fans of walking into a room to have our business portrait taken. It’s understandable. It can be, and often is, uncomfortable. Rare is the individual for whom the process is smooth and flowing, may God bless those lucky ones. For the rest of us, it creates a series of thoughts, hesitations, and choices that we hope will work out for the best, primarily with wardrobe, hairstyle, and grooming.
Remarkably and uncharacteristically, the attitude and expectation of a good outcome often can overcome all worry and concern. What are the other solutions that can join with optimism for ways moving forward … 
The number one method for achieving a good result may be merely a short discussion between the photographer and subject for setting goals, “what will this portrait represent about you, your brand, or the company and business?” Gentle but firm coaching follows for postures and expressions that reveal more than just a smiling face. Consider optimism, strength, guidance, or wisdom to meld with other aspects of personality. Choose one to meld with positive thoughts and expressions. Perhaps it’s in the eyes, or the lift or tilt of the face, the hand gently touching the chin or cheek or eyeglasses. All of this will be a pantomime and a bit of a performance.
Part of the time in the studio is exploration and exchanging a subtle back-and-forth. It is an asked and answered question to be present – but also to be affirmed like your business persona. It can be accomplished, and it usually takes more than 5 minutes.
So, if your photographer requests that you be with him or her in the session for 20 minutes or longer it’s not that they are searching, but rather that they are patient to see that your portrait meets your expectation.