Headshots Do’s and Don’ts

The most important visual component of your professional profile is your headshot photo.

What is a headshot photograph?

A headshot is a photograph of a person’s face, that usually includes their shoulders. It can be taken from different angles and is usually used in a professional context, like on social media or professional website. It usually only includes one person, and they are the main subject in your photo.

Some things to consider before our photoshoot:

  • Do you hope to use these photos for branding? If so, are there specific colors you’d like to incorporate to match your brand/company personality?
  • What would you like as a backdrop?
  • Are you looking for specific poses? Do you want more natural or posed shots?
  • What part of your personality would you like reflected in your photos?
  • Do you prefer plain studio background, or can we get the shoot done in your environment, for example office, gym, real estate, recording studio…

Check out my tips below to make sure you have the best headshot possible.

DO’S

  • Dress as you would when meeting a client.
  • Good facial expressions. Be yourself.
  • Good proportions (face is at least half of the area)
  • Solid or blurred background
  • Good lighting
  • Professional shirt with solid color (no busy patterns)
  • Choosing contrasting colors and proportions matter so much. It can really help you pick a photo that looks good at any size.

DON’TS

  • Bad proportions (either too close up or too far away)
  • Wearing distracting accessories (hats and sunglasses are not recommended)
  • Intense facial expression
  • Arm up (the focus should be on your face)

SIX TIPS TO FOLLOW BEFORE YOUR HEADSHOT PHOTOSHOOT:

      1. Practice. Whether you practice a pose in front of the mirror or use your camera’s self-timer, a big part of looking good comes with feeling comfortable. So loosen up, smile, and pretend someone’s snapping your picture.
      2. Know your angle. Most people don’t have perfectly symmetrical faces. One side usually looks significantly better than the other.
      3. Prepare a bit. Just add a touch more make-up than normally. Wear colors that you know suits you versus those that wash you out.
      4. Show some emotion. Softening eyes a bit and thinking of something that makes you happy makes you look far more relaxed.
      5. Make slight adjustments. While there’s nothing wrong with a straight stance facing the camera, a few little tweaks make it a lot more flattering. Move your  arms away from your body because when they’re squashed against you, they tend to look bigger. Turn your body at a slight angle to show off waist and put one foot slightly in front of the other.
      6. Consider the investment. Your headshot photos have to look professional. Don’t use selfies.

View my headshot photography pricing here and book your session here!