The Ultimate Guide to Preparing for Your Headshot Photoshoot
Whether you are an actor, model, or business professional, a headshot is an essential tool for marketing yourself. It’s important that you have a headshot photoshoot. Your headshot is the first impression that potential clients, employers, or agents will have of you. Therefore, preparing for your headshot photoshoot is crucial to ensure you look your best.
This ultimate guide will take you through everything you need to know to prepare for your headshot photoshoot. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right outfit to perfecting your hair and makeup. Let’s get started!
Choosing the Right Outfit for Your Headshot Photoshoot
Preparing Your Hair and Makeup
Tips for Poses and Expressions
Preparing Mentally for Your Headshot Photoshoot
FAQs About Headshot Photoshoots
Choosing the Right Outfit for Your Headshot Photoshoot
Your outfit choice for your headshot can make or break the photo. Choosing an outfit that is professional, stylish, and fits you well is essential. Here are some tips for choosing the right outfit for your headshot photoshoot:
Choose a solid color outfit that complements your skin tone.
Avoid patterns, logos, and busy prints that can distract from your face.
Make sure your outfit fits well and flatters your body type.
Please keep it simple and classic. Avoid trendy styles that may look outdated in a few years.
Preparing Your Hair and Makeup
Your hair and makeup play a vital role in how your headshot turns out. Choosing a hairstyle and makeup that enhances your features and makes you feel confident is essential. Here are some tips for preparing your hair and makeup for your headshot photoshoot:
Choose a hairstyle that frames your face and complements your outfit.
Keep your makeup natural-looking and avoid heavy contouring.
Don’t try new hairstyles or makeup looks on the day of your shoot. Stick to what you know looks good on you.
Bring touch-up tools like hairspray, bobby pins, and powder for any necessary touch-ups during the shoot.
How you pose and express yourself in your headshot can significantly impact the final product. Here are some tips for posing and expressions during your headshot photoshoot:
Practice your poses and smile in front of a mirror before the shoot.
Relax and breathe to avoid looking stiff or uncomfortable.
Use props like chairs, tables, or even a book to help pose.
Show a range of emotions and expressions to give your headshot personality.
Preparing Mentally for Your Headshot Photoshoot
Preparing mentally for your headshot photoshoot is just as important as preparing physically. Here are some tips for getting in the right mindset before your shoot:
Get a good night’s sleep the night before.
Eat a healthy meal before your shoot to avoid feeling tired or lightheaded.
Bring some music or a book to help pass the time during downtime.
Remember to breathe and relax. Trust your photographer to capture the best possible headshot.
FAQs About Headshot Photoshoots
Here are some frequently asked questions about headshot photoshoots:
How long does a headshot photoshoot typically take? A headshot photoshoot usually lasts anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours,
Want more tips and trick like the Guide to preparing for your headshot photoshoot? Here are some more tips:
10 Questions to Ask Your Event Photographer Before You Hire Them
Planning an event can be overwhelming, from choosing the perfect venue to selecting the right caterer. However, one of the most important decisions you will make is selecting the right event photographer. Event photography is not just about taking pictures; it’s about capturing the essence of the event and creating lasting memories. With so many photographers in the market, it can be challenging to know which one to choose. To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled the top 10 questions to ask your event photographer before you hire them.
Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Event Photographer Before You Hire Them:
Can I see your portfolio?
How many years of experience do you have in event photography?
What type of equipment do you use, and do you have backup equipment?
What is your style of photography?
What is included in your package, and are there any additional costs?
How long will it take for me to receive the final images?
Can you provide references from previous clients?
Will you be the one taking the photographs, or will it be an associate?
What is your cancellation policy?
Do you have liability insurance?
More detail around 10 Questions To Ask Your Event Photographer
Why Is It Important to Ask These Questions?
Can I See Your Portfolio?
How Many Years of Experience Do You Have in Event Photography?
What Type of Equipment Do You Use, and Do You Have Backup Equipment?
What Is Your Style of Photography?
What Is Included in Your Package, and Are There Any Additional Costs?
How Long Will It Take for Me to Receive the Final Images?
Can You Provide References from Previous Clients?
Will You Be the One Taking the Photographs, or Will It Be an Associate?
What Is Your Cancellation Policy?
Do You Have Liability Insurance?
Why Is It Important to Ask These Questions?
Asking these questions will help you make an informed decision when selecting an event photographer. You want to ensure that you choose a photographer who can meet your specific needs, style, and budget. Furthermore, it will help you avoid any unexpected costs or unpleasant surprises.
Can I See Your Portfolio?
A photographer’s portfolio will give you a good idea of their style, creativity, and quality of work. It is essential to ask to see their portfolio and ensure that it aligns with your vision for your event.
How Many Years of Experience Do You Have in Event Photography?
Experience is crucial when it comes to event photography. An experienced photographer will know how to capture the best shots and anticipate any potential issues. Ask the photographer about their experience and any relevant qualifications they may have.
What Type of Equipment Do You Use, and Do You Have Backup Equipment?
The quality of a photographer’s equipment can affect the quality of the images they produce. It is essential to ask about the type of equipment they use and whether they have backup equipment in case of technical difficulties.
What Is Your Style of Photography?
Every photographer has a unique style of photography. It is essential to understand their style and determine whether it aligns with your vision for your event. Ask to see examples of their previous work to get a better understanding of their style.
What Is Included in Your Package, and Are There Any Additional Costs?
It is essential to understand what is included in the photographer’s package and whether there are any additional costs. This will help you avoid any unexpected costs.
Here are some similar articles to 10 Questions To Ask Your Event Photographer
Professional Headshot Photographer vs. DIY: Which One Wins?
First impressions are crucial in today’s digital age, where people use social media and online platforms to present themselves to the world. One of the best ways to make an excellent first impression is through a professional headshot. A great Headshot Photographer can help. A well-taken headshot can communicate professionalism, confidence, and approachability. But the question is, should you hire a professional headshot photographer or take your headshot? In this article, we will compare the advantages and disadvantages of both options, so you can decide which one is right for you.
Professional Headshot Photographer:
Hiring a professional headshot photographer can be a good option if you want a high-quality headshot that represents you best. Here are some of the advantages of hiring a professional photographer:
Quality: A professional photographer has the expertise and equipment to take high-quality, well-lit, composed and edited photos.
Experience: A professional photographer has years of experience working with different clients, lighting situations, and environments. They know how to create a look that suits your personality, industry, and intended use of the headshot.
Professionalism: A professional photographer will guide you through the process, provide styling tips, and make you feel comfortable in front of the camera. They will also ensure that the final product meets your expectations and is timely.
Branding: If you’re using the headshot for business purposes, a professional photographer can help you create a brand identity that’s consistent across all your marketing materials.
When it comes to professional headshot photographer vs DIY I feel a professional is best but even those have disadvantages. Lets look.
However, there are some disadvantages to hiring a professional photographer as well:
Cost: Hiring a professional photographer can be expensive, depending on their experience and location. Prices can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars.
Time: It may take several days or weeks to schedule a session with a professional photographer and receive the final photos.
DIY Headshot:
Taking your headshot may be the way to go if you’re on a tight budget or want more control over the final product. Here are some advantages of taking a DIY headshot:
Cost-effective: You don’t have to pay for a photographer’s fees, so you can save money by taking your headshot.
Convenience: You can take your headshot whenever you want without having to schedule an appointment or travel to a studio.
Control: You can control every photo aspect, from the lighting to the composition to the editing.
However, there are also some disadvantages to taking your headshot:
Quality: You need to have experience and equipment to ensure the quality of the photo is as good as a professional’s.
Time-consuming: You may have to spend a lot of time experimenting with different settings and poses to get the perfect shot.
Limitations: You may need access to professional lighting equipment, backdrops, or editing software.
FAQs:
How much does a professional headshot photographer cost?
The cost of a professional headshot photographer varies depending on their experience, location, and package offerings. Prices can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars.
How long does it take to receive the final photos from a professional headshot photographer?
It can take several days or weeks to receive the final photos from a professional headshot photographer, depending on their workload and editing process. I typically deliver mine in 4 days but offer 24 hour turn around.
Can I retouch my headshot?
It depends on the photographer but if Yes, you can retouch your headshot using editing software like Photoshop or Capture One.
Here are some additional great articles on professional headshots.
10 Reasons Why You Need a Headshot Photographer Today
In today’s digital age, first impressions matter more than ever. Your online presence can make or break your personal or professional reputation; your headshot is often the first thing people see. A professional headshot can help you make a solid first impression and set you apart from the competition. This article will explore ten reasons why you need a headshot photographer today.
1. A Professional Image is a great reason why you need a headshot:
Your headshot is an essential component of your professional image. Whether you are a business owner, entrepreneur, or job seeker, a professional headshot conveys confidence, credibility, and competence. It shows that you take your personal and professional image seriously and are willing to invest in yourself.
2. Branding:
Your headshot is also a critical component of your personal or business branding. A professional headshot can help you establish and reinforce your brand identity, making you instantly recognizable and memorable.
3. Consistency:
A consistent professional headshot across all your online and offline marketing materials helps build trust and recognition. It allows people to identify you quickly and accurately, which is crucial in today’s crowded online marketplace.
4. Increased Engagement:
A professional headshot can help increase engagement with your online audience. A visually appealing and professional headshot can make your social media posts, blog articles, and other content more attractive, increasing engagement and shares.
5. Improved Website Performance:
Using professional headshots on your website can help improve its performance. Studies have shown that websites with professional headshots and other high-quality visuals tend to have lower bounce rates, higher click-through rates, and longer session durations.
6. Enhanced Resume:This one is very popular for Reasons Why You Need A Headshot
A professional headshot can make your resume stand out if you’re a job seeker. It shows that you are serious about your job search and are willing to go the extra mile to make a strong impression.
7. Better Networking:
A professional headshot can help you make better connections and network more effectively. People are likelier to remember and refer you if you have a professional headshot that sets you apart from the competition.
8. Increased Confidence:
A professional headshot can boost your confidence and self-esteem. It shows that you value yourself and are willing to invest in your personal and professional growth.
9. Timeless Investment:
A professional headshot is a timeless investment in your personal and professional image. It can be used across multiple platforms and materials for years, making it a wise investment in your future.
10. Better Overall Image:
A professional headshot can help you present a better overall image. It shows that you care about your appearance and are willing to invest in yourself, which can appeal to potential clients, employers, and collaborators.
FAQs on Headshots:
How do I choose the right headshot photographer?
Look for a photographer with experience in shooting professional headshots. Ask to see their portfolio and read reviews from previous clients. Make sure their style aligns with your personal or professional brand.
What should I wear for my headshot session?
Dress professionally and in a style that aligns with your personal or professional brand. Avoid loud or distracting patterns and colors and opt for classic, timeless outfits.
Can I retouch my headshot?
Most headshot photographers offer retouching services to enhance the final image’s appearance.
Conclusion:
A professional headshot is an essential investment in your personal and professional image. It can help you make a solid first impression, reinforce your brand identity, increase engagement and improve your online presence.
I have a lot more than just 10 Reasons Why You Need A Headshot. Here are more articles.
An Amazing Way To Take Your Event To The Next Level with an Event Photographer
Corporate events are an important aspect of any business’s marketing and networking strategy. An Event Photographer can take the event to the next level. From product launches to award ceremonies, these events allow businesses to connect with their customers, employees, and partners on a more personal level. While planning a corporate event, many aspects need to be considered, including the venue, catering, and guest list. However, one of the most important aspects that is often overlooked is the need for a professional event photographer.
I capture and deliver photos of your guests at your event immediately. Check out the video. Why not have a headshot station? A portrait station? or a traveling photographer for your event. Take it to the next level.
In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of having a photographer at your corporate event.
Capturing the moment
A professional photographer has the skills and equipment necessary to capture high-quality images that showcase your corporate event in the best possible light. Whether it’s capturing the keynote speaker’s presentation or the guests networking, a photographer can help create a lasting memory of the event.
Professionalism
A professional photographer can add an element of professionalism to your corporate event. It shows that you are taking the event seriously and that you value the time and effort that your guests have put in to attend. Having professional images to share after the event can also help to strengthen your brand image.
Marketing material
The images captured by a professional photographer can be used for marketing purposes. These images can be used in your company’s website, social media pages, and other promotional materials. Having high-quality images showcasing your corporate event can help to attract potential clients and investors.
Employee morale
Corporate events are also an opportunity to reward your employees for their hard work and dedication. Having a photographer at your event can help to boost employee morale by showcasing their hard work and achievements. These images can be shared with your employees to thank them for their contributions.
Documentation
Having a professional photographer at your corporate event can also serve as documentation of the event. This documentation can be used for future reference or to share with employees who were unable to attend the event. It can also serve as a record of the achievements and milestones of your company.
In conclusion, having a professional photographer at your corporate event is essential. They can capture the moment, add an element of professionalism, provide marketing material, boost employee morale, and serve as documentation of the event. Investing in a professional photographer is an investment in your brand image and can help to ensure the success of your event.
I travel anywhere to take pictures of your event. Fill out an inquiry form or give me a call at 817-778-0132 to photograph your event, conference, wedding, or convention.
Want more articles on an amazing way to take your event to the next level
Why Should Models Have Professional Headshots and Portraits?
In today’s world, professional headshot and portraits have become crucial for models. Whether you’re a fashion, commercial, or fitness model, having professional and high-quality images are a must for a successful career. In this blog post, we’ll discuss why it’s important for models to get headshots and portraits.
Headshots and portraits are the primary way clients assess and evaluate models.
Clients looking for models to hire for their campaigns or events want to see what the model looks like in real life. While photoshoots and editorials can showcase a model’s versatility and creativity, images are important for giving clients a clear idea of what the model looks like.
Headshots and portraits help models stand out in a highly competitive industry.
Certainly the modeling industry is incredibly competitive, with thousands of models vying for the same jobs. Having professional and unique images can make a model more memorable and increase their chances of getting hired. Thirdly, images are necessary for building a model’s portfolio. A portfolio is a collection of a model’s best work and is used to show their abilities and experience. Above all images are the foundation of any modeling portfolio. They are the first images that potential clients will see. Finally, images can help models to develop their personal brand. In today’s social media-driven world, models must have a solid and consistent personal brand. In addition Headshots and photographs can be used on a model’s social media accounts, website, and other promotional materials to create a cohesive and professional image.
In conclusion, headshots and portraits are vital for models in the current modeling industry. They provide clients with an accurate representation of the model’s appearance, help models to stand out in a competitive industry, and are necessary for building a portfolio and personal brand. To clarify investing in high-quality images and portraits is a wise decision for any model looking to succeed in their career.
Another Chance To Be An Event Photographer At An Amazing Event, Night To Shine!
I love being an Event Photographer and this past weekend I got to volunteer and be an Event Photographer at my favorite event I get to shoot every year. It was The Night To Shine. I love this event and find it hard to think of anything I would shoot that would top this event photography. This one is the best of all the corporate events I take photography for.
This is my third time in 5 years. Why did I miss two? Covid happened one year, and I was recovering from the hospital the following year.
If you are unfamiliar with Night To Shine, it is a fantastic event started by Tim Tebow. One night a year, every year, he puts on this event that is now global.
Night to Shine is an unforgettable prom night experience centered on God’s love for people with special needs, ages 14 and older.
Tim Tebow Foundation
Night to Shine is a celebration! Although every event looks a little different and is extra special, some of the elements included are a red carpet entrance complete with a warm welcome from a friendly crowd and paparazzi, hair and makeup stations, shoe-shining stations, limousine rides, corsages, and boutonnieres, a catered dinner, dancing, karaoke, gifts, a Respite Room for parents and caregivers, and, a crowning ceremony where every honored guest receives a crown or tiara.
If you want to learn more about Night To Shine, you can do so by visiting this website:
While in a studio, I focus on taking pictures of Headshots, Corporate Headshots, Business Headshots, and Portrait Photography, and producing promotional videos. I love to get out at events and not only offer a Headshot Booth, but I also love to photograph or video events. Many businesses offer off-site meetings that offer Branding Headshots for their team members and company, but why not add event photography as a bonus to capture the event? Why not add a video for promotional purposes? If any of this sounds interesting, visit my home page here.
Thank you again for reading about my event photography at Night To Shine. I would love to post pictures of the event, but because of regulations around the event, I can’t. It is incredible to see these people’s faces and how their faces light up from the time they visit the red carpet until the time they go home. So incredible.
A 2mm Headshot is a great way to stand out as an actor or actress.
Wow!!! Was that a fun photoshoot? You bet! Cara came into the studio with her mom to get some new professional headshot done for her acting career. She had an event coming up for some work and needed headshots. Realtors, Corporate professionals, and Actors/Actresses are the busiest class of headshots I do. When Cara walked into the studio, I knew it would be a great session.
She has a fabulous smile and all that hair! You can bet that since Cara now has a 2mm headshot, she stands out and has a competitive advantage over her other actors and actresses looking to get a role.
Actress Headshot
Don’t you want to have a competitive advantage in anything you do? A professional headshot is a great way to start.
Business, Life, Career, etc. Having a high-end branded headshot is a great way to have a competitive advantage. It gives you a 14% greater chance of being noticed. Is 14% an advantage? Most people would love a 1% advantage over the competition. This has been a proven fact by LinkedIn research.
With actor and actress headshots, we can have less serious images. As an actress, you should have a good variety of expressions in your portfolio. Want to build your portfolio slowly, that is no problem. When you have a session at 2mm Studios, I ensure you get multiple different backgrounds, looks, and expressions. Yes, even goofy ones that make you look fun. Why not right. You might be auditioning for that type of role. Having a headshot that shows all the different expressions are great. However an angry headshot may not be one you want to get. Six months later, you find yourself auditioning for an angry person role. You can go to your portfolio that I provide and find the angry headshot. I can have it ready for you in under 24 hours.
Actress Headshot
I make sure I have you covered for your profession. Each person gets an entire portfolio of all the images we take during your session just in case the ones you purchase for editing don’t cover the need you have months down the road.
Schedule a headshot or portrait session today!
Having a professional headshot is crucial for actors and actresses, as it serves as their first impression to casting directors, agents, and potential employers. A well-crafted headshot can help actors stand out from the competition and showcase their unique qualities and characteristics. Above all it should be a high-quality, clear, and flattering photograph that accurately represents the actor’s appearance and personality. Additionally, a professional headshot can demonstrate an actor’s professionalism and commitment to their craft, which can be appealing to those in the industry.
Moreover, a professional headshot is often required when submitting for casting calls or auditions. Casting directors and agents may use an actor’s headshot to determine whether they fit the requirements of a particular role, and if they do not have a professional headshot, they may be overlooked or dismissed altogether. A headshot is an actor’s calling card and can potentially lead to new opportunities and job offers. Therefore, investing in a professional headshot is a worthwhile investment for actors and actresses looking to advance their careers in the entertainment industry.
FAQs on Getting Professional Headshots for Actors and Actresses
Why is having a professional headshot important for actors and actresses?
A professional headshot is important for actors and actresses because it serves as their first impression to potential employers, casting directors, and agents. It showcases their unique qualities and characteristics, and can demonstrate their professionalism and commitment to their craft.
How does a professional headshot help actors and actresses stand out from the competition?
A well-crafted headshot can help actors stand out from the competition by showcasing their appearance and personality in a clear and flattering way. It can also highlight their unique qualities and make them more memorable to casting directors and agents.
Why is it necessary to have a high-quality and clear headshot?
A high-quality and clear headshot is necessary because it accurately represents the actor’s appearance and personality. It can also demonstrate the actor’s attention to detail and professionalism, which can be appealing to those in the industry.
How can a professional headshot lead to new opportunities for actors and actresses?
A professional headshot can potentially lead to new opportunities for actors and actresses by attracting the attention of casting directors and agents. It can help them stand out from the competition and demonstrate their unique qualities and characteristics, which can lead to new auditions and job offers.
Is a professional headshot required for submitting to casting calls or auditions?
Yes, a professional headshot is often required when submitting to casting calls or auditions. Casting directors and agents may use an actor’s headshot to determine whether they fit the requirements of a particular role, and if they do not have a professional headshot, they may be overlooked or dismissed altogether.
Want to learn more tricks to stand out as an actor or actress. Here are some articles that will help.
Do you want stunning photos that reflect your true self and promote your brand?
Overcome Camera Shyness and Embrace Your Photogenic Self!
If you’re feeling anxious in front of the camera or unsure about your look in photos, rest assured that we are here to help you shine! Our team at 2mm Studios specializes in bringing out your unique qualities and ensuring that every moment in front of the lens is a positive and empowering experience.
Elevate Your Events to New Heights!
Looking to host an event, trade show, convention, or conference? Look no further! We specialize in capturing those precious moments, setting up impressive headshots and portrait booths, and offering the marketing expertise necessary to take your event to the next level.
Facial Expression Coaching for Picture-Perfect Confidence!
fTo look confident and graceful in every photo, try our specialized coaching sessions, including Facial Expression Coaching.
A Stress-Free and Delightful Experience Awaits!
Step into an environment that exudes fun, enjoyment, and entertainment throughout your journey with us. At 2mm Studios, we are committed to providing you with a stress-free experience, ensuring you have a blast while we capture your essence in stunning photographs.
If any of these resonate with you, then look no further! We are the perfect studio to meet all your photography needs and bring out the best in you and your cherished moments.
I’m part of a global team of Headshot Photographers called the Headshot Crew. The Headshot Crew is a fantastic group, and we provide modern High-End Headshots for anybody on the planet. Yes, I said anybody. The Headshot Crew was founded by my Friend Peter Hurley. Peter Hurley has been a great instructor, and recently the Headshot Crew was featured on Good Morning America. I know I have the video posted on my website, but I thought I would write a blog article about it.
We live in a very competitive world. You always have to stay ahead of the competition. It does not take much to go from excellence to outstanding. That is called the 2mm Shift, and the reason my studio is called 2mm Studios. I want to be outstanding. But more importantly, I want you to be outstanding. One way I can help you be outstanding is to give you the best headshot possible. While we are getting the best headshot possible, I want you to have the best time possible.
I can talk about the importance of having a great headshot, but since this blog post is about The Headshot Crew being featured on Good Morning America, watch this clip, and you will see the multiple benefits and advantages you have with a great headshot. A great photographer can make anyone look great in a headshot. We are all beautiful, and it is up to people like me to bring it out. I do this through facial expression coaching. It is my crucial differentiator. It’s my 2mm Shift above the competition. If there is anything I can do to help get you the best headshot possible, just let me know. I am happy to help.
I’ve been in the corporate world a better part of 2 decades. Almost 3. I have met thousands of people over this time and have shook thousands of hands in my lifetime. That sure has changed in 2020. Covid19 has made us change the way we do business, the way we go about our day to day, the way we meet new people.
The handshake has always been the way you greet one another in both the corporate world and the way you meet friends and new acquaintances. It doesn’t matter if your male or female a handshake can tell a lot about a person. Confidence, trust, energy, determination. How do you feel when somebody gives you a nice firm handshake? You might not notice anything or maybe you can sense the person has an energy that is inviting about them. If you don’t notice a firm handshake you sure do notice a weak one. That person that comes up to you and gives you that wimpy intimidated handshake. When that happens to me, I get a sense of intimidation, lack of motivation, a feeling like the person does not have a lot of confidence in the situation. I’m trying to teach my kids to always greet somebody with a good strong handshake. A handshake that will show the person confidence even in situations when they are not.
Today we don’t greet people the way we used to. Most of us don’t even go into the office anymore for now. Hopefully that time comes back but for now our days are full of org charts, company directories, zoom calls, social media profiles, LinkedIn updates, websites, email signatures, etc. If you are like most people you have a picture of yourself setup in these different systems. A headshot! Social media is the best example. Who doesn’t have a headshot in their profile picture on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn?
Your Headshot Has Become Your New Handshake?
What is your headshot saying about you? A headshot is even a stronger representation of you as a person then your handshake. Your headshot could literally be seen by millions of people. You better have a headshot that gets people’s attention. Did you know that a good profile picture will get you 14 times the number of likes and more than 35 times the amount of interactions then a profile without?
So why do so many people have bad headshots in their social media profiles, corporate directories, signatures, etc. Some of the worse headshots I have seen are of CEO’s.
What makes a bad headshot or a bad digital handshake? Here are a few things to prevent.
A picture taken with your phone. Yes, phone cameras are 100 times better than they were even just a few years ago but pictures still look like they were taken with your phone.
Pictures taken with garbage in the background. Anything that is not a solid color. No it’s not a good idea to have your picture taken by your favorite car, on the beach, or at some party. This is your first impression you want to make to somebody. I think not.
A picture where the camera is higher than your eyes. Sure, it makes you look skinnier but when do you feel more powerful? When you are looking down on somebody or the other person is looking down on you? When you are looking down on somebody right? A headshot needs to show how powerful and confident you are. It’s hard to get that feeling when the camera angle looks taller than you are.
Big eyes. Confidence comes from the eyes. So why do you look like a deer in headlights? You look scared, not confident at all, and you look funny. You should not see the whites of the bottom of your eyes.
Clothing and backgrounds that don’t look professional. Stick with solid colors for both your clothing and your backgrounds.
For heaven sakes please don’t drop your shoulders. People at some point thought this would look cool. I don’t think I ever liked that look. I have a martial arts background. You know what you do when somebody drops their shoulder? You punch them in the face. Enough said.
A smile that looks fake. 90% of headshots I see look like the smile is forced. It looks like the person was told to smile. You need a smile that is authentic. A smile because the photographer made you laugh at something. Fake smiles look fake, look forced, and makes you look like somebody that was forced to smile because your not a nice person.
Here are just a few tips on what I feel makes a great headshot. That makes a strong digital handshake. A headshot that shows confidence, capability, intelligence, sex appeal, and most important Trust!
Take the picture with shoulders square or directly at the camera. You look the most powerful head-on. As soon as you turn your shoulders you look like a smaller person or not as strong.
Take the picture slightly lower than your mouth. This will give the appearance to the person looking at the picture that you are confident, capable, and trustworthy.
You don’t need to smile and if the smile does not look authentic I would recommend against it. But you do need to make sure you don’t have the deer in headlights look. You want eyes that show confidence so make your eyes slightly squinch like you are unstoppable and you are going to but through that wall in front of you.
Don’t wear any crazy prints. Solid colors are the best.
Don’t wear crazy jewelry. Don’t wear any jewelry if you have to question it. The focus is your face not the fancy jewelry.
Use a Grey, White, or Black background. Nothing else.
Well I hope these tips help. Don’t let an opportunity pass you up or a connection pass by with having a bad profile picture. This includes your corporate directory. In a global world most people will only get to know you by your headshot so make it a strong one.
I have been a professional headshot photographer since 2016. I have been a professional photographer since 2002. If there is anything I can do to help please let me know. If you are interested in a professional headshot for you or your organization, I take headshots in studio or on location any place in the world. Visit https://2mmheadshots.com I take headshots that are authentic and show the personality of a person. I make professionals look like professionals and show Trust, Intelligence, Determination, Credibility, and Likeability. Headshots that get you noticed!
