Dos And Don'ts Of A Professional Headshot Session
A professional headshot is not just a photo but a powerful tool that can influence how you're perceived in your career. Whether you're looking to update your LinkedIn profile, refresh your company's website, or simply need a sharp image for networking, getting the right headshot is crucial. But when something is that important, you need to be sure that you are doing all the right things and staying away from the wrong ones. Which is what this blog will guide you about!
Table Of Contents
Dos And Don'ts Of A Professional Headshot Session
The Dos
The Don'ts
Conclusion
FAQ’s
Now for the big question: how do you ensure that your headshot stands out for all the right reasons? As someone who has been crafting professional headshots for years, I’ve gathered insights that can help you avoid common pitfalls and achieve a result that truly represents you.
The Dos: Things You Should Do To Get A Good Headshot
When preparing for a headshot, it’s important to focus on the elements that will make your photo professional, polished, and reflective of your unique personality. Let’s break down the key dos that will help you shine in front of the camera.
1. Choose Your Outfit Thoughtfully
Your clothing choices can significantly impact how you're perceived in a headshot. The goal is to select an outfit that aligns with your professional role and conveys the image you want to project.
Think about the industry you're in and dress accordingly. If you're in a corporate environment, a well-tailored suit or a crisp blouse might be ideal. For those in creative fields, consider attire that shows a bit of your personal style, maybe a textured blazer or a subtly patterned shirt. The key is to look professional while allowing a touch of your personality to come through.
Solid, neutral colors tend to work best for headshots because they keep the focus on your face rather than your clothing. Avoid bright colors and bold patterns, as these can be distracting and draw attention away from your expression. Also, steer clear of large logos or graphics, which can make the image feel more casual than professional.
Your outfit should fit you well and be free of wrinkles or stains. Taking a few extra minutes to press your clothes can make a significant difference in the overall look of your headshot. This attention to detail helps convey that you’re polished and prepared.
2. Prioritize Grooming—Why Your Appearance Matters
How you present yourself in a headshot can leave a lasting impression. Proper grooming is essential to ensure that you look your best on camera.
A few days before your session, start paying extra attention to your skin and hair. Keep your skin hydrated and consider a gentle exfoliation to create a smooth base. If you wear makeup, aim for a natural look that enhances your features without overpowering them. For hair, choose a style that’s neat and familiar—now isn’t the time to experiment with a new look.
If you have facial hair, make sure it’s well-groomed. A clean shave or a neatly trimmed beard can make a big difference in your headshot, ensuring you look sharp and professional.
3. Be Authentic And Relaxed During Your Session
A great headshot captures not just how you look but who you are. To achieve this, it’s crucial to be relaxed and authentic during your session.
Before your session, practice different expressions in front of the mirror. Think about the impression you want to make, whether it’s approachable, confident, or authoritative, and try out expressions that convey that vibe. The more comfortable you are with your expressions, the more natural they’ll look in your photos.
It’s normal to feel anxious before taking your photo, but try to relax and trust your photographer. A professional photographer will guide you through the process, helping you find the right angles and expressions that flatter you the most. The more relaxed you are, the more genuine your headshot will be.
4. Choose The Right Backdrop
The background of your headshot can set the tone for the entire image. Choosing the right one can help enhance your professional appearance.
Choose a background that matches the tone you want to set. For corporate headshots, a simple, neutral background often works best because it keeps the focus on you. If you’re in a more creative or casual industry, a background with a bit more texture or color might work, as long as it doesn’t distract from your face.
The key to a great background is simplicity. Avoid busy or cluttered backgrounds that can pull attention away from you. The goal is to create a clean, professional image where you are the clear focal point.
5. Go For Subtle Editing
After your headshot session, post-processing can help polish the final image. However, it’s important to keep the edits subtle so that the final image doesn’t give an impression of being artificial.
Retouching should be used to enhance your natural appearance, not to create an unrealistic version of yourself. Minor adjustments like softening shadows, evening out skin tone, or removing blemishes are fine, but avoid heavy editing that changes your appearance too much. The best headshots look like the best version of you, not a different person.
Take the time to review the final images carefully. Look for photos where your expression, posture, and overall appearance are in sync with the professional image you want to convey. This is your chance to ensure that the headshot truly represents you in the best possible light.
In simple words, don’t overdo it.
The Don’ts: Things To Avoid
While there are many things you can do to make your headshot great, there are also some common mistakes that can detract from the final image. Here’s what you should avoid to keep your headshot looking polished and professional.
1. Don’t Wear Distracting Outfits, Keep Them Simple
What you wear in your headshot can either support or detract from the overall image. Here’s what to avoid.
Flashy outfits or overly trendy clothes might seem fun, but they can quickly date your photo or distract from your face. Stick to classic, timeless pieces that won’t look out of place a year or two down the line.
Even if your workplace is casual, a headshot should elevate your appearance. Jeans and t-shirts might be comfortable, but they often don’t convey the professionalism that a headshot requires. Opt for something that shows you take your professional image seriously.
2. Don’t Overthink Your Hair And Makeup
While you want to look polished, it’s important not to go overboard with hair and makeup.
Heavy makeup can look harsh in photos, especially under studio lights. Stick to natural tones that enhance your features without overpowering them. The goal is to look like yourself, just a bit more polished.
Avoid trying out new hairstyles or makeup looks right before your session. If the look doesn’t suit you, it could affect your confidence and the outcome of your headshot. Stick with styles you know work well for you.
3. Don’t Use Unnecessary Props So That The Focus Is On You
Props can sometimes be used to add fun or a fancy detail to a headshot, but they can also distract from the main subject, which should be you.
Unless a prop is directly related to your profession and adds context to the headshot, it’s best to avoid it. Unnecessary props can make the image feel cluttered and take attention away from your face.
A clean, simple composition is often the most effective. Avoid cramming too much into the frame, as this can make the headshot feel busy and unfocused. The simpler the shot, the more impact it will have.
4. Don’t Forget About Lighting; It Can Make Or Break Your Shot
Lighting is one of the most important elements of a great headshot. Here’s how to avoid common lighting mistakes.
Harsh lighting can create unflattering shadows and emphasize imperfections. Soft, diffused lighting is usually best for headshots as it flatters your features and creates a warm, inviting image.
While natural light can be beautiful, relying on poor or inconsistent natural light can lead to disappointing results. If you’re shooting outdoors, aim for the golden hour, the first hour after sunrise, or the last hour before sunset when the light is softest. If you’re indoors, make sure the light is even and flattering.
Conclusion
Your headshot is often the first impression you make in the professional world, and it’s worth investing the time and effort to get it right. By focusing on the dos and avoiding the don’ts, you can ensure that your headshot is polished, professional, and truly representative of who you are.
Remember, a great headshot isn’t just about looking good—it’s about conveying the right message. Whether you’re aiming for approachable, confident, or authoritative, the choices you make in your headshot session will reflect in the final image. With the right preparation and mindset, you can walk away with a headshot that opens doors and leaves a lasting positive impression.
FAQs
1. How Often Should I Update My Professional Headshot?
It’s recommended to update your headshot every 2-3 years or sooner if your appearance changes significantly. Keeping your headshot current ensures that it accurately reflects your professional image.
2. What’s The Ideal Time Of Day For A Headshot Session?
For natural light headshots, early morning or late afternoon, during the golden hour, is ideal. This time of day offers a soft, flattering light that enhances your features.
3. Can I Have A Casual Background In My Headshot?
It depends on your profession and the image you want to project. A neutral background is generally best for most professions, but a more dynamic background can work well for creative industries as long as it doesn’t distract from your face.
4. Should I Smile In My Headshot?
Smiling can make you appear more approachable and friendly, which is often desirable. However, the decision to smile should align with the professional image you want to project.
5. How Do I Choose The Right Photographer For My Headshot?
Look for a photographer with experience in professional headshots. Review their portfolio to ensure their style matches what you’re looking for. A good photographer will understand the nuances of lighting, composition, and expression to create a headshot that works for you.
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Matt Roberts is a seasoned professional headshot and luxury brand family portrait photographer with over ten years of dedicated experience. He has carved a niche in helping purpose-driven entrepreneurs, business professionals, and corporate executives craft their personal brands and amplify their influence. His dedication and skill make him the go-to photographer in San Antonio, Texas, for anyone seeking to make a significant impact with their professional online presence, as well as for those desiring exquisite family portraits that capture the essence of luxury and legacy.
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