Photography Direction Prompts¶

Prompt templates for stock photo selection, AI photography, and photo treatment with parameterized design system integration

Created: February 2026 Tool: Nano Banana Pro Related: Framework Overview | Visual Identity

Design System Configuration¶

# PHOTOGRAPHY ASSET CONFIGURATION
# Inherits from: ./readme.md (SBK Generative Prompts Framework)
# All {{token}} references resolve from parent design system

asset_category: "photography"
schema_version: "2.0"
parent_config: "./readme.md"

# Default photography settings (override per use case)
photography_defaults:
  active_variant: "{{active_configuration.variant}}"
  color_grading: "{{variant_color_grading}}"
  overlay_style: "{{variant_overlay_style}}"
  frame_treatment: "{{variant_frame_treatment}}"

# Token inheritance
token_sources:
  colors: "{{color_primitives}}"
  typography: "{{typography_tokens}}"
  effects: "{{effect_tokens}}"
  shadows: "{{shadow_tokens}}"
  frames: "{{frame_tokens}}"

Variant-Specific Photography Treatments¶

Color Grading by Variant¶

variant_color_grading:
  trusted_advisor:
    description: "Refined neutral warmth with blue color cast"
    temperature: "+5"              # Slightly warm
    tint: "-3"                     # Reduce green
    highlights: "-15"
    shadows: "+10"
    whites: "-10"
    blacks: "+5"
    vibrance: "-10"
    saturation: "-8"
    primary_tone: "{{sbk_blue}}"   # #2563eb
    shadow_tone: "{{sbk_navy}}"    # #0f172a
    overall_feel: "Professional, balanced, confident"
    color_cast: "subtle-cool-blue"

  modern_partner:
    description: "Warm organic tones with teal undertones"
    temperature: "+12"             # Noticeably warm
    tint: "-5"                     # Slight magenta reduction
    highlights: "-10"
    shadows: "+15"
    whites: "-5"
    blacks: "+8"
    vibrance: "-5"
    saturation: "-3"
    primary_tone: "{{teal_600}}"   # #0d9488
    shadow_tone: "{{teal_700}}"    # #0f766e
    overall_feel: "Approachable, human, collaborative"
    color_cast: "warm-teal"

  bold_challenger:
    description: "High contrast with desaturated cool tones"
    temperature: "-3"              # Slightly cool
    tint: "0"
    highlights: "-25"              # Punchy contrast
    shadows: "+5"
    whites: "-15"
    blacks: "-10"                  # Deep blacks
    vibrance: "-15"
    saturation: "-12"
    primary_tone: "{{slate_900}}"  # #0f172a
    accent_tone: "{{orange_600}}"  # #ea580c
    overall_feel: "Bold, decisive, memorable"
    color_cast: "high-contrast-neutral"

  cyber_shield:
    description: "Cool dark grade with red threat accents"
    temperature: "-15"             # Cool/clinical
    tint: "+3"                     # Slight cyan push
    highlights: "-30"
    shadows: "-15"                 # Crush shadows
    whites: "-20"
    blacks: "-20"                  # Deep blacks
    vibrance: "-25"
    saturation: "-30"
    primary_tone: "{{red_600}}"    # #dc2626
    shadow_tone: "{{dark_bg_primary}}" # #0a0a0b
    accent_glow: "{{red_500}}"     # #ef4444
    overall_feel: "Vigilant, technical, mission-critical"
    color_cast: "cool-dark-with-red-accents"
    special_effects:
      - "selective-red-preservation"
      - "shadow-crush"
      - "scan-line-overlay"

  sentinel_guard:
    description: "Dark purple grade with violet undertones"
    temperature: "-10"             # Cool
    tint: "+8"                     # Push toward purple
    highlights: "-20"
    shadows: "-10"
    whites: "-15"
    blacks: "-15"
    vibrance: "-20"
    saturation: "-20"
    primary_tone: "{{purple_600}}" # #9333ea
    shadow_tone: "{{dark_bg_primary}}" # #0a0a0b
    accent_glow: "{{purple_400}}"
    overall_feel: "Intelligent, futuristic, autonomous"
    color_cast: "cool-purple-shift"
    special_effects:
      - "purple-highlight-bloom"
      - "neural-pattern-overlay"

  clean_developer:
    description: "Clean neutral grade with high clarity"
    temperature: "0"               # Neutral
    tint: "0"
    highlights: "-5"
    shadows: "+5"
    whites: "+5"
    blacks: "0"
    vibrance: "-5"
    saturation: "-5"
    clarity: "+15"                 # Enhanced detail
    primary_tone: "{{indigo_600}}" # #4f46e5
    background_tone: "{{white}}"   # #ffffff
    overall_feel: "Clean, precise, professional"
    color_cast: "neutral-clean"
    special_effects:
      - "high-clarity"
      - "clean-whites"

  creative_clay:
    description: "Warm editorial grade with vibrant accents"
    temperature: "+8"              # Warm
    tint: "-2"
    highlights: "-8"
    shadows: "+12"
    whites: "-5"
    blacks: "+5"
    vibrance: "+5"                 # Slightly boosted
    saturation: "0"
    primary_tone: "{{slate_900}}"  # #0f172a
    accent_tone: "{{orange_500}}"  # #f97316
    highlight_tone: "{{amber_500}}" # #f59e0b
    overall_feel: "Distinctive, creative, memorable"
    color_cast: "warm-editorial"
    special_effects:
      - "film-grain-subtle"
      - "lifted-shadows"
      - "warm-highlight-bloom"

  quantum_enterprise:
    description: "Premium neutral grade with selective color"
    temperature: "+3"
    tint: "-2"
    highlights: "-12"
    shadows: "+8"
    whites: "-8"
    blacks: "+3"
    vibrance: "-12"
    saturation: "-10"
    primary_tone: "{{sbk_blue}}"   # #2563eb
    secondary_tone: "{{slate_800}}" # #1e293b
    overall_feel: "Premium, established, enterprise"
    color_cast: "refined-neutral"
    special_effects:
      - "selective-desaturation"
      - "premium-contrast"

Overlay Treatments by Variant¶

variant_overlay_treatments:
  trusted_advisor:
    gradient_overlay:
      enabled: true
      direction: "135deg"
      from: "{{sbk_navy}}40"       # #0f172a at 25% opacity
      to: "transparent"
      blend_mode: "multiply"
    color_wash:
      color: "{{sbk_blue}}"
      opacity: 0.08
      blend_mode: "soft-light"
    vignette:
      amount: 0.15
      feather: 0.8
      shape: "oval"
    texture_overlay:
      type: "subtle-paper-grain"
      opacity: 0.03

  modern_partner:
    gradient_overlay:
      enabled: true
      direction: "180deg"
      from: "{{teal_600}}30"       # Teal at 19% opacity
      to: "{{cyan_500}}10"
      blend_mode: "overlay"
    color_wash:
      color: "{{teal_500}}"
      opacity: 0.05
      blend_mode: "color"
    vignette:
      amount: 0.10
      feather: 0.9
      shape: "soft-oval"
    texture_overlay:
      type: "organic-grain"
      opacity: 0.02

  bold_challenger:
    gradient_overlay:
      enabled: true
      direction: "90deg"
      from: "{{slate_900}}60"      # Deep charcoal at 37%
      to: "transparent"
      blend_mode: "multiply"
    color_wash:
      enabled: false               # Clean, no wash
    vignette:
      amount: 0.25
      feather: 0.6
      shape: "dramatic"
    texture_overlay:
      type: "none"
    contrast_boost:
      amount: 1.15

  cyber_shield:
    gradient_overlay:
      enabled: true
      direction: "180deg"
      from: "{{dark_bg_primary}}CC"  # Near-black at 80%
      via: "{{dark_bg_secondary}}80"
      to: "{{red_600}}20"            # Red tint at bottom
      blend_mode: "multiply"
    scan_line_overlay:
      enabled: true
      color: "{{dark_text_primary}}"
      opacity: 0.02
      spacing: "4px"
    color_wash:
      color: "{{red_600}}"
      opacity: 0.10
      blend_mode: "color"
      position: "edges"
    vignette:
      amount: 0.35
      feather: 0.5
      shape: "squared"
    glow_accents:
      enabled: true
      color: "{{red_500}}"
      opacity: 0.15
      position: "highlights"

  sentinel_guard:
    gradient_overlay:
      enabled: true
      direction: "135deg"
      from: "{{purple_600}}50"
      via: "{{violet_600}}30"
      to: "{{fuchsia_500}}10"
      blend_mode: "screen"
    neural_overlay:
      enabled: true
      pattern: "network-nodes"
      color: "{{purple_400}}"
      opacity: 0.05
    color_wash:
      color: "{{purple_500}}"
      opacity: 0.12
      blend_mode: "overlay"
    vignette:
      amount: 0.30
      feather: 0.6
      shape: "soft-rectangle"
    glow_accents:
      enabled: true
      color: "{{purple_400}}"
      opacity: 0.20
      position: "key-subjects"

  clean_developer:
    gradient_overlay:
      enabled: false               # Clean, no gradients
    color_wash:
      enabled: false
    vignette:
      amount: 0.08
      feather: 0.95
      shape: "subtle"
    texture_overlay:
      type: "none"
    clarity_boost:
      amount: 1.10

  creative_clay:
    gradient_overlay:
      enabled: true
      direction: "225deg"
      from: "{{orange_500}}20"
      via: "{{amber_500}}10"
      to: "{{sbk_sky}}08"
      blend_mode: "overlay"
    color_wash:
      color: "{{orange_500}}"
      opacity: 0.06
      blend_mode: "soft-light"
    vignette:
      amount: 0.12
      feather: 0.85
      shape: "organic"
    texture_overlay:
      type: "noise-grain"
      opacity: 0.015
    warm_bloom:
      enabled: true
      intensity: 0.08
      color: "{{amber_200}}"

  quantum_enterprise:
    gradient_overlay:
      enabled: true
      direction: "180deg"
      from: "{{slate_800}}30"
      to: "transparent"
      blend_mode: "multiply"
    color_wash:
      color: "{{sbk_blue}}"
      opacity: 0.05
      blend_mode: "color"
    vignette:
      amount: 0.18
      feather: 0.75
      shape: "premium-oval"
    texture_overlay:
      type: "fine-linen"
      opacity: 0.02

Frame Styles by Variant¶

variant_frame_treatments:
  trusted_advisor:
    frame_enabled: true
    frame_style: "{{frame_solid}}"
    frame_color: "{{slate_200}}"
    frame_width: "1px"
    frame_opacity: 0.2
    corner_radius: "{{radius_lg}}"   # 8px
    shadow: "{{shadow_md}}"
    inner_border: false

  modern_partner:
    frame_enabled: true
    frame_style: "{{frame_solid}}"
    frame_color: "{{teal_300}}"
    frame_width: "1px"
    frame_opacity: 0.15
    corner_radius: "{{radius_xl}}"   # 12px
    shadow: "{{shadow_lg}}"
    inner_border: false

  bold_challenger:
    frame_enabled: true
    frame_style: "{{frame_solid}}"
    frame_color: "{{slate_900}}"
    frame_width: "2px"
    frame_opacity: 1.0
    corner_radius: "{{radius_md}}"   # 6px
    shadow: "{{shadow_xl}}"
    accent_line:
      enabled: true
      color: "{{orange_600}}"
      width: "4px"
      position: "bottom"

  cyber_shield:
    frame_enabled: true
    frame_style: "{{frame_glow}}"
    frame_color: "{{red_600}}"
    frame_width: "1px"
    frame_opacity: 0.8
    corner_radius: "{{radius_sm}}"   # 2px
    glow_radius: "8px"
    glow_color: "{{red_500}}"
    glow_opacity: 0.3
    corner_brackets:
      enabled: true
      color: "{{red_500}}"
      size: "16px"
      opacity: 0.6
    scan_line_border:
      enabled: true
      opacity: 0.05

  sentinel_guard:
    frame_enabled: true
    frame_style: "{{frame_gradient}}"
    frame_color_from: "{{purple_600}}"
    frame_color_to: "{{violet_600}}"
    frame_width: "2px"
    frame_opacity: 0.6
    corner_radius: "{{radius_lg}}"   # 8px
    glow_radius: "12px"
    glow_color: "{{purple_500}}"
    glow_opacity: 0.25
    inner_glow:
      enabled: true
      color: "{{purple_400}}"
      opacity: 0.1

  clean_developer:
    frame_enabled: true
    frame_style: "{{frame_solid}}"
    frame_color: "{{slate_200}}"
    frame_width: "1px"
    frame_opacity: 0.3
    corner_radius: "{{radius_lg}}"   # 8px
    shadow: "{{shadow_sm}}"
    inner_border: false

  creative_clay:
    frame_enabled: true
    frame_style: "{{frame_solid}}"
    frame_color: "{{slate_200}}"
    frame_width: "1px"
    frame_opacity: 0.15
    corner_radius: "{{radius_2xl}}"  # 16px
    shadow: "{{shadow_xl}}"
    blob_mask:
      enabled: true
      style: "organic-rounded"

  quantum_enterprise:
    frame_enabled: true
    frame_style: "{{frame_double}}"
    frame_color: "{{slate_300}}"
    frame_width: "3px"
    frame_opacity: 0.2
    corner_radius: "{{radius_lg}}"   # 8px
    shadow: "{{shadow_lg}}"
    inner_border:
      enabled: true
      color: "{{sbk_blue}}"
      width: "1px"
      opacity: 0.1

Photo Style Recommendations by Variant¶

variant_photo_styles:
  trusted_advisor:
    recommended_subjects:
      - "Executive portraits with natural lighting"
      - "Professional office environments"
      - "Collaborative meeting scenes"
      - "Clean technology workspaces"
    lighting_style: "Natural window light with soft fill"
    composition: "Centered or rule-of-thirds, stable framing"
    depth_of_field: "Medium-shallow, subject in focus"
    environment: "Modern professional, established"
    wardrobe: "Business professional, classic"
    color_palette_in_scene: "Neutrals with blue accents"
    mood: "Confident, trustworthy, established"
    avoid:
      - "Overly casual settings"
      - "Harsh shadows"
      - "Trendy or flashy elements"

  modern_partner:
    recommended_subjects:
      - "Collaborative team interactions"
      - "Workshop and brainstorming sessions"
      - "Diverse team photography"
      - "Human-centered technology use"
    lighting_style: "Warm natural light, golden hour preferred"
    composition: "Dynamic asymmetric, flowing"
    depth_of_field: "Shallow, dreamy background blur"
    environment: "Warm, welcoming, modern organic"
    wardrobe: "Smart casual, approachable"
    color_palette_in_scene: "Warm neutrals, teal/cyan accents"
    mood: "Collaborative, human, approachable"
    avoid:
      - "Cold, sterile environments"
      - "Formal posed shots"
      - "Impersonal settings"

  bold_challenger:
    recommended_subjects:
      - "Decisive action moments"
      - "Strong individual portraits"
      - "High-contrast architectural"
      - "Strategic planning sessions"
    lighting_style: "Dramatic with strong key light"
    composition: "Bold, edge-anchored, dynamic tension"
    depth_of_field: "Deep, everything in focus"
    environment: "Modern, minimal, high-contrast"
    wardrobe: "Sharp, contemporary, confident"
    color_palette_in_scene: "Black, white, charcoal with orange accents"
    mood: "Decisive, bold, memorable"
    avoid:
      - "Soft, diffused lighting"
      - "Pastel colors"
      - "Generic stock photo feeling"

  cyber_shield:
    recommended_subjects:
      - "Security operations centers"
      - "Technical monitoring dashboards"
      - "Server room environments"
      - "Cybersecurity professionals"
    lighting_style: "Dramatic, screen-lit, multiple monitors"
    composition: "Command-center density, data-rich"
    depth_of_field: "Medium, contextual detail visible"
    environment: "Dark, technical, operational"
    wardrobe: "Technical professional, ops team"
    color_palette_in_scene: "Dark backgrounds, red accent lighting"
    mood: "Vigilant, protective, mission-critical"
    special_treatment:
      - "Desaturate except reds"
      - "Add subtle scan lines"
      - "Include data/UI overlays"
    avoid:
      - "Bright, cheerful lighting"
      - "Casual environments"
      - "Soft, decorative elements"

  sentinel_guard:
    recommended_subjects:
      - "AI and automation imagery"
      - "Abstract technology visuals"
      - "Intelligent systems"
      - "Data visualization contexts"
    lighting_style: "Ambient tech glow, soft illumination"
    composition: "Flowing, organic tech layouts"
    depth_of_field: "Shallow with bokeh light patterns"
    environment: "Modern, AI-influenced, sophisticated"
    wardrobe: "Contemporary tech professional"
    color_palette_in_scene: "Dark with purple/violet accents"
    mood: "Intelligent, futuristic, autonomous"
    special_treatment:
      - "Add purple/violet color grading"
      - "Include neural network patterns"
      - "Soft glow effects"
    avoid:
      - "Dated technology"
      - "Manual/analog references"
      - "Harsh, clinical lighting"

  clean_developer:
    recommended_subjects:
      - "Developer workstations"
      - "Clean code on screens"
      - "Minimal office setups"
      - "Documentation and technical writing"
    lighting_style: "Even, clean, shadowless"
    composition: "Precise grid alignment, mathematical"
    depth_of_field: "Medium, sharp details"
    environment: "Minimal, clean, organized"
    wardrobe: "Casual professional, developer style"
    color_palette_in_scene: "White, light gray, subtle indigo"
    mood: "Precise, clean, developer-friendly"
    special_treatment:
      - "High clarity"
      - "True neutral whites"
      - "Code-friendly framing"
    avoid:
      - "Cluttered desks"
      - "Busy backgrounds"
      - "Warm color casts"

  creative_clay:
    recommended_subjects:
      - "Creative team collaborations"
      - "Unique workspace environments"
      - "Innovation and ideation"
      - "Distinctive brand moments"
    lighting_style: "Editorial, warm, dramatic shadows"
    composition: "Bold asymmetric, statement-making"
    depth_of_field: "Varied for visual interest"
    environment: "Creative, distinctive, memorable"
    wardrobe: "Creative professional, distinctive"
    color_palette_in_scene: "Neutral base with warm accent pops"
    mood: "Distinctive, creative, bold"
    special_treatment:
      - "Film grain texture"
      - "Warm highlight bloom"
      - "Editorial cropping"
    avoid:
      - "Generic stock photo aesthetics"
      - "Template-feeling compositions"
      - "Boring, forgettable framing"

  quantum_enterprise:
    recommended_subjects:
      - "C-suite and leadership"
      - "Enterprise environments"
      - "Premium office spaces"
      - "Strategic business moments"
    lighting_style: "Refined, premium, subtle drama"
    composition: "Classical with modern refinement"
    depth_of_field: "Medium-shallow, elegant blur"
    environment: "Premium enterprise, established"
    wardrobe: "Executive, premium business"
    color_palette_in_scene: "Rich neutrals, selective blue"
    mood: "Premium, established, enterprise"
    special_treatment:
      - "Selective desaturation"
      - "Premium contrast curve"
      - "Fine texture overlay"
    avoid:
      - "Casual or startup vibes"
      - "Harsh, unflattering lighting"
      - "Generic corporate stock"

Photography Philosophy¶

SBK photography must: - Show real people in authentic work environments - Avoid cliches like handshakes, pointing at screens, generic suits - Support the narrative of trusted expertise - Feel contemporary without being trendy - Align with active design variant using appropriate color grading and treatments

Photography Anti-Patterns¶

Never use or generate: - Handshake photos (overused) - People pointing at screens with data - Empty conference rooms - Stock photo "business people" posing - Overly polished, fake-feeling images - Outdated technology or settings

Portrait Photography¶

Executive/Team Portraits¶

[SBK BRAND DNA]
Professional technology consulting aesthetic. Trustworthy, expert, approachable.

[STYLE: {{active_variant.name}}]
{{active_variant.prompt_prefix}}

[ASSET: PORTRAIT - EXECUTIVE]
Professional headshot for website and materials.

[COLOR GRADING: {{variant_color_grading[active_variant].description}}]
Temperature: {{variant_color_grading[active_variant].temperature}}
Primary tone: {{variant_color_grading[active_variant].primary_tone}}
Overall feel: {{variant_color_grading[active_variant].overall_feel}}

[OVERLAY: {{variant_overlay_treatments[active_variant]}}]
Gradient: {{variant_overlay_treatments[active_variant].gradient_overlay}}
Vignette: {{variant_overlay_treatments[active_variant].vignette.amount}}

[FRAME: {{variant_frame_treatments[active_variant]}}]
Style: {{variant_frame_treatments[active_variant].frame_style}}
Corner radius: {{variant_frame_treatments[active_variant].corner_radius}}

[SPECIFICATIONS]
Aspect ratio: 4:5 or 1:1.
High resolution (min 2000px).
Color-graded to {{active_variant}} palette.

[SUBJECT]
Business professional in contemporary office environment.
Natural expression—confident but approachable.
Eye contact with camera.
Subtle environmental context (desk, bookshelf, window).
Professional attire appropriate to consulting.
Shallow depth of field, subject in sharp focus.

[LIGHTING]
{{variant_photo_styles[active_variant].lighting_style}}
Soft fill to reduce shadows.
No harsh shadows on face.
Slight rim light for separation.

[AVOID]
Stiff formal poses. Arms crossed (defensive).
Dark or dated backgrounds. Flash photography look.
Over-retouched skin. Forced smiles.
{{variant_photo_styles[active_variant].avoid}}

Team Photography¶

[ASSET: PORTRAIT - TEAM]
Group photo for About page and materials.

[COLOR GRADING: {{active_variant}}]
Apply {{variant_color_grading[active_variant].description}}

[SUBJECT]
Small group (3-5 people) in collaborative setting.
Natural interaction—reviewing something together.
Varied poses and eye directions.
Professional but relaxed demeanor.
Authentic diversity in age, gender, background.
Environment suggests expertise (office, tech setting).

[COMPOSITION]
{{variant_photo_styles[active_variant].composition}}
Layered depth—not everyone at same distance.
Some candid, some camera-aware.

[AVOID]
Lined up formally. All looking at camera.
Fake laughter. Obvious posing.
Too casual (no T-shirts, jeans).

Environmental Photography¶

Office/Workspace¶

[ASSET: ENVIRONMENT - OFFICE]
Office/workspace photography for backgrounds and content.

[STYLE: {{active_variant.name}}]
{{active_variant.prompt_prefix}}

[COLOR GRADING]
{{variant_color_grading[active_variant]}}

[SUBJECT]
Modern professional office environment.
Clean, organized workspaces.
Technology present but not dominant.
Natural light through windows.
Subtle brand colors in environment.
Signs of actual work happening.

[STYLE NOTES]
Contemporary but not too trendy.
{{variant_photo_styles[active_variant].environment}}
Professional without being corporate-stuffy.
Could be boutique consulting firm aesthetic.

[OVERLAY TREATMENT]
{{variant_overlay_treatments[active_variant]}}

[AVOID]
Open floor plans with rows of desks.
Visible brand logos (others or generic).
Messy or cluttered spaces.
Empty, staged-looking environments.
Fluorescent lighting.

Client Site¶

[ASSET: ENVIRONMENT - CLIENT SITE]
Photography suggesting client engagement.

[COLOR GRADING: {{active_variant}}]
{{variant_color_grading[active_variant]}}

[SUBJECT]
Professional visiting client location.
Authentic office or business environment.
Laptop or materials visible.
Collaborative posture—leaning in, engaged.
Client industry context visible.

[AVOID]
Recognizable client locations without permission.
Too casual settings.
Technology that will date quickly.

Action/Work Photography¶

Consulting in Action¶

[ASSET: ACTION - CONSULTING]
Professionals doing consulting work.

[STYLE: {{active_variant.name}}]
{{active_variant.prompt_prefix}}

[COLOR GRADING]
{{variant_color_grading[active_variant]}}

[SUBJECT]
Consultant(s) engaged in work activities:
- Whiteboard strategy session
- Laptop analysis with client present
- Presentation delivery
- Document review
- One-on-one advisory conversation

Natural, candid feeling.
Professional attire and environment.
Technology is current but not focus.

[COMPOSITION]
{{variant_photo_styles[active_variant].composition}}
Subject(s) not centered.
Environmental context visible.
Depth and dimension in frame.

[FRAME TREATMENT]
{{variant_frame_treatments[active_variant]}}

[AVOID]
Posed "meeting" shots.
Everyone looking at camera.
Fake collaboration.
Empty gestures.

Technology Work¶

[ASSET: ACTION - TECHNOLOGY]
Technology-focused work imagery.

[STYLE: {{active_variant.name}}]
{{active_variant.prompt_prefix}}

[COLOR GRADING]
{{variant_color_grading[active_variant]}}
{{variant_color_grading[active_variant].special_effects}}

[SUBJECT]
Hands on keyboard, code on screen (blurred).
Server room or data center context.
Network or security monitoring.
Multiple screens, professional setup.
Focus and concentration visible.

[STYLE NOTES]
Modern, clean technology.
{{variant_photo_styles[active_variant].lighting_style}}
Human element present.
Competence and expertise implied.

[OVERLAY TREATMENT]
{{variant_overlay_treatments[active_variant]}}

[AVOID]
Matrix-style code rain.
Hacker-in-hoodie cliches.
Outdated technology.
Unrealistic screen content.

Conceptual Photography¶

Security/Protection¶

[ASSET: CONCEPTUAL - SECURITY]
Abstract or conceptual security imagery.

[RECOMMENDED VARIANTS: cyber_shield, sentinel_guard, trusted_advisor]

[STYLE: {{active_variant.name}}]
{{active_variant.prompt_prefix}}

[COLOR GRADING: {{active_variant}}]
{{variant_color_grading[active_variant]}}

[SUBJECT]
Abstract representations of protection:
- Light through protective structures
- Geometric patterns suggesting barriers
- Calm, protected spaces
- Order emerging from complexity

NOT literal locks, shields, padlocks.
Sophisticated and subtle.
Implies protection without fear.

[COLOR TREATMENT]
Primary: {{variant_color_grading[active_variant].primary_tone}}
Shadow: {{variant_color_grading[active_variant].shadow_tone}}
Overall: {{variant_color_grading[active_variant].color_cast}}

[OVERLAY]
{{variant_overlay_treatments[active_variant]}}

[AVOID]
Literal security imagery (locks, keys).
Fear-based imagery.
Red/warning colors dominant (except cyber_shield variant).
Hacker/threat imagery.

Strategy/Planning¶

[ASSET: CONCEPTUAL - STRATEGY]
Abstract strategy and planning imagery.

[RECOMMENDED VARIANTS: trusted_advisor, bold_challenger, quantum_enterprise]

[STYLE: {{active_variant.name}}]
{{active_variant.prompt_prefix}}

[COLOR GRADING]
{{variant_color_grading[active_variant]}}

[SUBJECT]
Abstract representations of direction:
- Paths, roads, journeys
- Architectural lines suggesting structure
- Light suggesting clarity
- Order and organization

Modern, architectural quality.
Clean lines and spaces.
Suggests methodology without being literal.

[FRAME TREATMENT]
{{variant_frame_treatments[active_variant]}}

[AVOID]
Chess pieces (overused).
Roadmaps or literal maps.
Arrows pointing up.
Puzzle pieces.

Innovation/Transformation¶

[ASSET: CONCEPTUAL - INNOVATION]
Abstract innovation and transformation imagery.

[RECOMMENDED VARIANTS: sentinel_guard, creative_clay, modern_partner]

[STYLE: {{active_variant.name}}]
{{active_variant.prompt_prefix}}

[COLOR GRADING]
{{variant_color_grading[active_variant]}}

[SUBJECT]
Abstract representations of change:
- Light and motion
- Geometric transformation
- Technology + human integration
- Progress and movement

Modern, forward-looking.
Energy without chaos.
Sophistication over flashiness.

[OVERLAY TREATMENT]
{{variant_overlay_treatments[active_variant]}}

[AVOID]
Lightbulbs (overused).
Rockets or launching.
Brain imagery.
Overwhelming technology.

Photo Treatment¶

Color Correction (Token-Based)¶

color_treatment:
  # Universal base treatment
  base_method: "Grade to active variant palette"

  # Token-based grading
  variant_grading: "{{variant_color_grading[active_variant]}}"

  # Common adjustments
  adjustment_values:
    temperature: "{{variant_color_grading[active_variant].temperature}}"
    tint: "{{variant_color_grading[active_variant].tint}}"
    highlights: "{{variant_color_grading[active_variant].highlights}}"
    shadows: "{{variant_color_grading[active_variant].shadows}}"
    whites: "{{variant_color_grading[active_variant].whites}}"
    blacks: "{{variant_color_grading[active_variant].blacks}}"
    vibrance: "{{variant_color_grading[active_variant].vibrance}}"
    saturation: "{{variant_color_grading[active_variant].saturation}}"

  # Variant-specific special effects
  special_effects: "{{variant_color_grading[active_variant].special_effects}}"

Overlay Treatment (Token-Based)¶

overlay_options:
  # Token-resolved overlays
  gradient_overlay: "{{variant_overlay_treatments[active_variant].gradient_overlay}}"

  color_wash: "{{variant_overlay_treatments[active_variant].color_wash}}"

  vignette: "{{variant_overlay_treatments[active_variant].vignette}}"

  texture: "{{variant_overlay_treatments[active_variant].texture_overlay}}"

  # Variant-specific special overlays
  special_overlays:
    cyber_shield:
      scan_lines: "{{variant_overlay_treatments.cyber_shield.scan_line_overlay}}"
      glow_accents: "{{variant_overlay_treatments.cyber_shield.glow_accents}}"

    sentinel_guard:
      neural_overlay: "{{variant_overlay_treatments.sentinel_guard.neural_overlay}}"
      glow_accents: "{{variant_overlay_treatments.sentinel_guard.glow_accents}}"

    creative_clay:
      warm_bloom: "{{variant_overlay_treatments.creative_clay.warm_bloom}}"
      grain: "{{variant_overlay_treatments.creative_clay.texture_overlay}}"

# Legacy defaults (when no variant specified)
legacy_overlay_options:
  gradient_overlay:
    direction: "Bottom-left to top-right"
    colors: "Brand blue to transparent"
    opacity: "15-30%"

  duotone:
    shadow_color: "#0f172a"
    highlight_color: "#f8fafc"
    contrast: "High"
    use_case: "Hero images, feature sections"

  vignette:
    amount: "Subtle (10-20%)"
    feather: "High (soft edges)"
    shape: "Slight vertical oval"

Frame Treatment (Token-Based)¶

frame_treatment:
  # Token-resolved frame settings
  enabled: "{{variant_frame_treatments[active_variant].frame_enabled}}"
  style: "{{variant_frame_treatments[active_variant].frame_style}}"
  color: "{{variant_frame_treatments[active_variant].frame_color}}"
  width: "{{variant_frame_treatments[active_variant].frame_width}}"
  opacity: "{{variant_frame_treatments[active_variant].frame_opacity}}"
  corner_radius: "{{variant_frame_treatments[active_variant].corner_radius}}"
  shadow: "{{variant_frame_treatments[active_variant].shadow}}"

  # Variant-specific frame features
  special_frames:
    cyber_shield:
      corner_brackets: "{{variant_frame_treatments.cyber_shield.corner_brackets}}"
      glow: "{{variant_frame_treatments.cyber_shield.glow_radius}}"
      scan_line_border: "{{variant_frame_treatments.cyber_shield.scan_line_border}}"

    sentinel_guard:
      gradient_frame: true
      inner_glow: "{{variant_frame_treatments.sentinel_guard.inner_glow}}"

    bold_challenger:
      accent_line: "{{variant_frame_treatments.bold_challenger.accent_line}}"

    creative_clay:
      blob_mask: "{{variant_frame_treatments.creative_clay.blob_mask}}"

Stock Photo Selection Criteria¶

Evaluation Checklist¶

Before using any stock photo:

Preferred Sources¶

stock_sources:
  premium:
    - name: "Getty Images"
      strength: "High quality, exclusive content"
    - name: "Stocksy"
      strength: "Artistic, authentic feeling"
    - name: "Offset"
      strength: "Premium, documentary style"

  standard:
    - name: "Unsplash"
      strength: "Free, good quality for backgrounds"
    - name: "Pexels"
      strength: "Free, varied content"

  avoid:
    - "Obvious stock photo sites"
    - "AI-generated faces (uncanny valley)"
    - "Clearly staged business imagery"

Industry-Specific Photography¶

Healthcare¶

[CONTEXT: HEALTHCARE INDUSTRY]
Medical/healthcare environment photography.

[VARIANT RECOMMENDATION: trusted_advisor, clean_developer]

[COLOR GRADING: {{active_variant}}]
{{variant_color_grading[active_variant]}}

[CONSIDERATIONS]
HIPAA sensitivity—no patient identifiers.
Modern medical technology.
Administrative not clinical focus.
Trust and competence emphasized.
Clean, organized environments.

[SUBJECTS]
- Medical office administration
- Healthcare IT infrastructure
- Compliance documentation
- Secure data handling

[OVERLAY TREATMENT]
{{variant_overlay_treatments[active_variant]}}

Legal¶

[CONTEXT: LEGAL INDUSTRY]
Law firm environment photography.

[VARIANT RECOMMENDATION: trusted_advisor, quantum_enterprise]

[COLOR GRADING: {{active_variant}}]
{{variant_color_grading[active_variant]}}

[CONSIDERATIONS]
Traditional with modern touches.
Confidentiality implied.
Professional formality.
Quality and precision.

[SUBJECTS]
- Professional office settings
- Document management
- Secure file handling
- Partner-level environments

[FRAME TREATMENT]
{{variant_frame_treatments[active_variant]}}

Financial Services¶

[CONTEXT: FINANCIAL INDUSTRY]
Finance/accounting environment photography.

[VARIANT RECOMMENDATION: trusted_advisor, bold_challenger, quantum_enterprise]

[COLOR GRADING: {{active_variant}}]
{{variant_color_grading[active_variant]}}

[CONSIDERATIONS]
Trust and security emphasis.
Regulatory awareness implied.
Professional, established feeling.
Data protection visible.

[SUBJECTS]
- Financial analysis work
- Secure data environments
- Compliance activities
- Professional consultations

[OVERLAY TREATMENT]
{{variant_overlay_treatments[active_variant]}}

Technology/Cybersecurity¶

[CONTEXT: TECHNOLOGY/CYBERSECURITY INDUSTRY]
Security and technology environment photography.

[VARIANT RECOMMENDATION: cyber_shield, sentinel_guard, clean_developer]

[COLOR GRADING: {{active_variant}}]
{{variant_color_grading[active_variant]}}
Special effects: {{variant_color_grading[active_variant].special_effects}}

[CONSIDERATIONS]
Technical competence emphasized.
Modern, current technology.
Security-aware environment.
Professional operations center aesthetic.

[SUBJECTS]
- Security operations centers
- Server infrastructure
- Monitoring dashboards
- Technical team collaboration

[OVERLAY TREATMENT]
{{variant_overlay_treatments[active_variant]}}
Including: scan lines, glow effects, technical overlays

[FRAME TREATMENT]
{{variant_frame_treatments[active_variant]}}
Including: corner brackets, glow frames

Quality Checklist¶

Before using any photography:

Quick Reference: Variant Selection for Photography¶

Use Case	Recommended Variant	Color Grading	Key Treatment
Executive portraits	trusted_advisor	Cool blue, refined	Subtle vignette
Team collaboration	modern_partner	Warm teal	Organic overlay
Sales/marketing hero	bold_challenger	High contrast	Dramatic shadows
Security content	cyber_shield	Cool dark, red accents	Scan lines, glow
AI/Innovation	sentinel_guard	Purple shift	Neural overlay
Developer docs	clean_developer	Neutral clean	High clarity
Creative campaigns	creative_clay	Warm editorial	Grain, bloom
Enterprise/C-suite	quantum_enterprise	Premium neutral	Fine texture

Last Updated: February 2026 Version: 2.0 (Parameterized Design System Integration)