I would write the subject of my article, whether it was critical or laudatory, and say,

"We are about to publish this story about you. Please send us a likeness of yourself we can use to illustrate it."

If it were about a public figure which was written about frequently, I would use his publicity glossies for illustrations.

I once hosted a panel discussion at a professional conference on a a very controversial topic in my industry, which I was very partisan on. I invited both my supporters and my opponents on the issue. I mailed each a copy of my opening remarks so they could prepare.

Except for the press conference format, where anything goes, I don't believe in gotcha journalism.