Build Your Brand With the Perfect Headshot

As a professional, you know that first impressions are everything. In today’s digital age, your headshot is often one of the first things people see when they explore your website, look at your LinkedIn profile, and go through your other official materials. 

Your photo is part of your brand and can make or break that all-important first impression. That’s why it’s essential to have a headshot that’s polished and creative, one that captures the essence of who you are and what your business is about.

In this article, we’ll share important tips so you can get a perfect headshot that you can be proud of.

Preparing for Your Photoshoot

Here are some things to consider before your big photoshoot:

Determine Your Style

The first step to creating a striking headshot is to determine your personal style. Are you playful and creative or more reserved and serious? This will help you choose the right attire and makeup as well as determine the type of background and lighting that will work best for you. 

Your headshot should be an accurate representation of who you are and it should reflect your style. Take some time to think about what you want your headshot to convey and how you want to be perceived.

Pick the Right Outfit

Clothing is another important aspect in achieving the perfect headshot. Choose an outfit that flatters your body type and complements your personal style. You want to look your best but still, feel comfortable in your own skin. If you’re not sure what to wear, take a look at headshots in your industry for inspiration or consult a professional stylist. 

When choosing your outfit, consider the colors, patterns, and fabrics that work best for your skin tone, hair color, and eye color. Avoid busy patterns and colors that are too bright. Choose something that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Opt for solid colors and simple, classic styles that don’t overpower your face or distract from your features. 

Hire a Professional Photographer

While it’s possible to take your own headshots, a professional photographer can help you achieve the best results. A professional photographer has the experience and expertise to guide you through the process, from choosing the right location and lighting to selecting the right outfit and angle. 

They’ll also have access to professional equipment and lighting setups which can make all the difference in the quality of your headshots. Look for someone who specializes in corporate headshots and has a portfolio that you like.

Flaunt Your Personality

Whether you’re a professional in a conservative field or an entrepreneur in a creative industry, your headshot should reflect who you are and what you do. If you’re an artist, consider incorporating elements of your work into your headshot such as wearing a statement piece of jewelry or holding your favorite brush. If you’re a business professional, choose a headshot that is professional but also reflects your personal style.

Share Examples of the Shots You Want

Sometimes the best thing you can do to show your photographer what you want is to show them. So, go on LinkedIn and start sifting through different photos of professionals. Save a few that you like and want to emulate and share them with your photographer before your shoot. By giving them a visual peg, they can have a more concrete idea of what you want to happen.

Planning Your Photoshoot 

Before your photographer even begins shooting, there are certain matters that are good to discuss to manage each other’s expectations and help you get the results you want. Here are a few things you should talk about:

Background and Venue

The location for the photoshoot should be based on the subject’s personality and the vibe that you want your photos to have. If you want photos that are more natural and less formal, consider a natural outdoor location. Some ideas are the park, forest, and outside your office when the morning sun is out. If you’re more of a city slicker, a rooftop with a view of the city skyline might be the perfect backdrop. 

Choose a location that reflects your personality and business style. When selecting your location, consider factors such as lighting, background, and noise levels. You want a location that is visually appealing and doesn’t distract from the focus of your headshot — you.

Experiment With Different Angles

After identifying the right location, you may want to talk to your photographer about the different angles you want them to capture. Photographic angles can make a huge difference in the feelings that an image evokes. A photo that captures its subject from a lower angle typically denotes power and strength while a photo taken from a higher angle shows vulnerability. 

Tell your photographer how you want your photos to look and the qualities you want them to be associated with. They can then direct you on different angles and shots to help you achieve those results.

Don’t Be Afraid To Have Fun

In most companies, it’s good to have some variety in the types of shots that are taken. Even if your company is more formal and businesslike, it helps to have slightly more casual shots where your leaders look more friendly and approachable. 

Consider the Lighting

Good lighting is key to a great headshot. Make sure that the venue where the photos will be taken is bright and even. If you’ll be having some shots outdoors, it’s even more important to consider timing, the source of natural light, and how your photographer can supplement or correct the lighting with their own lighting equipment. 

For example, morning light is usually best for taking photos while the sun at noon is usually too bright. Sunset is generally great for taking panoramic photos but for portraits, the natural light tends to cast long and dark shadows across people’s faces, so be conscious of your positioning to the light and photographer.

Putting It All Together

A professional headshot is an essential part of your personal brand. From selecting the right clothing, background, and lighting to finding a photographer you trust, every detail counts. 

While great headshots look natural and easy, they also take careful planning and foresight. If in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask your photographer for guidance. They can provide suggestions on angles, clothing, venues, and how to conduct the photoshoot so you get the photos you need.