Professional Headshot Photography: A Client's Guide
Headshot photography is more than just a simple portrait; it's a powerful tool for personal and professional branding. We’ve all heard the expression, “A picture is worth 1,000 words”. Headshots are more than just pictures; they are your professional identity captured in a frame. They are the first thing a company sees when they click on your LinkedIn profile, your website, or even your social media platforms. Are you smiling big and wide and giving off “friendly and approachable”? Is your background outdoors showcasing a more adventurous and open personality? The most important thing is to make sure you are leaving a lasting impression of your brand and Royal T Visuals is here to help you do just that.
Three Key Elements to Getting the Best Headshot Photos
Effective Communication with Your Photographer
Posing with Confidence
Your Wardrobe Choices Matter
Why effective communication with your photographer matters?
Great headshots start with great communication. Discuss your goals, your intended wardrobe choices, and anything else that may assist your photographer in capturing the best photos for you. It will also save you time the day of because you and your photographer will know the your expectations of each other allowing you’ll to get some of those camera shy jitters out of the way.
Posing with Confidence
Practice, practice, practice. The mirror is your friend and a great representation of what you will look like in your images. You can Google headshots and a variety of poses will come up. Sure, some people still sit straight backed at an angle, showing zero teeth, and giving the camera a stern glare, and that works for some. Yet, your headshots is a representation of your brand and if that not you then don’t choose that pose. The same poses that may work for someone else might not work for you, so get in front of that mirror and see if you like it before photoshoot day. Your pose should exude confidence while still showing off who you are as an individual and brand.
Wardrobe Choices Matter
If you take nothing else away from this post, please remember this: TRY ON YOUR CLOTHES BEFORE PHOTOSHOOT DAY! Did that sound like I was yelling? Good because I am a little. The most consistent reason clients have stated they were late or did not like an image has been because they do not like their outfit. So try on your outfit before and bring a backup just in case. Also, keep in mind you want your outfit to match the vibe and feel of your brand. But, in most cases, I recommend solid colors or subtle patterns that complement your skin tone, don’t distract from your face, and that won’t clash with your background.
8 Steps To Getting Headshots That Represent Your Brand
1. Choose the Right Photographer
Selecting the right photographer is the first and most crucial step in achieving a successful headshot. Look for a photographer with experience and a portfolio of in headshot photographs that align with your vision of your brand or style.
Related: Headshot Photography Portfolio
2. Consultation and Communication
Communication is important so I’m going to say it again, ensure that you and your photographer both understand your vision for your headshots and the expectation on you are trying to use them for. Remember this is the first and maybe only impression people may have of you so over communicate so there are no misunderstandings.
3. Wardrobe Selection
For your outfit if you remember to select options that fit your brand or the brand you want to convey you are doing great. Also don’t forget to try on your outfits well before your headshot session.
4. Makeup and Grooming
Getting your makeup and grooming by a professional can enhance your appearance in photos. So, consider hiring a makeup artist and going to that hair stylist or barber. Make sure to get a good rest and drink plenty of water leading up to your shoot. Trust me your skin will love you for it.
5. Location and Background
Make sure when you are discussing your headshot goals with your photographer you mention location and background. You don’t need to know the exact location but a general feel or vibe you want will go a long way. Let them know if you want a Studio backdrop or outdoor scenery. This is your brand so ultimately the choice of location is your but if you picked the right photographer you can trust they got you covered.
6. Poses and Expressions
Here’s one of those repeats again. Make sure to practice different poses and facial expressions before your session. With headshots the focus is your face so if feel awkward or you aren’t showing off your best smile the camera will pick it up.
Related: Tips For Smiling More Naturally In Photos
7. Relax and Be Yourself
Feeling comfortable during the photoshoot is essential. Relax, be yourself, and trust your photographer's guidance. Authenticity often results in the best headshots. So if you need some music to relax let your photographer know.
8. Update Your Photo As You Change
You don’t want to be the person who has a headshot from several years ago and when people see you in person they don’t recognize you because you look different. Now, I’m not saying you need to update your headshot every year but you should updated headshot as your brand develops and evolves.
A successful headshot photography session is a collaborative effort between you and your photographer. By carefully selecting your photographer, preparing effectively, and communicating your needs, you can achieve headshots that represent your personal or professional brand wonderfully.
