How to get your best headshot
When you’re not quite ready for a full branding session, but need professional images to get you started, a simple headshot session may be just the ticket.
But you don’t want boring old pictures, even if it’s simple. So how do you get that great headshot?
I’m so glad you asked! These are some of the tips I give my clients to help them get started on being comfortable and authentic in front of the camera.
Look directly at the camera
Be bold. Be confident. Look into that lens and give it your fiercest, most capable smile (or not smile, if that’s what you want!) This is your “power” picture. It conveys to people that you know what you’re doing.
Make sure your photographer knows what you do
An artist is going to need something different than an accountant. It’s just facts. Make sure you communicate to your photographer what you do and why you need the pictures so they can decide on posing and lighting that makes sense for your headshots.
Make time for comfort
The first few pictures of every session are simply me getting my clients comfortable in front of my camera. I’m taking those couple of minutes to recognize their comfort level, their confidence, and adjust my shooting style accordingly. Spend a few minutes at the beginning of your session just trying to find the happy medium between camera anxiety and being yourself.
Stay fluid
Loosen up those limbs, straighten up your back, and don’t lock your knees. Staying fluid and loose helps you look more natural. Practice in front of the mirror before your session, doing different poses to see how you feel in each one. Not sure what poses to even try? Google “headshot poses” and scroll through some pictures to get an idea!
Work your body
Turn your body in different directions, smile, sit, stand, be serious, move your hands in ways that feel natural. Don’t limit yourself to that 1 pose that you see everyone doing and remember that your photographer is getting multiple shots so you may as well try something new and see what works.
Be intentional with your clothing
Wear clothing that makes you feel capable. Whatever professional feels like to you, that’s how you should dress. If tiger stripes and statement jewelry is your thing, rock those animal prints! This is a time to showcase your personality in a picture, your wardrobe should reflect that.
Drop your limiting beliefs
These headshots are literally just a snapshot of who you are, but they’re going to be the first thing people see when they look at your business card, or visit your website, or check out your Instagram page. So they need to represent who you are and the vibe you’re going for in your business. Which means any limiting beliefs or mindset trash needs to be taken care of before your session. Walk into your session exuding confidence in yourself and your own skills and abilities, and your pictures will reflect that.
Research your pros
Headshots are essential building blocks to your brand image, they show the face of your business. Make sure the photographer you’re working with recognizes that and is able to capture the real, authentic, gorgeously imperfect you. The style of their pictures should reflect the style you’re looking for in your images, so there are no surprises. If you’re hiring a makeup artist, make sure that person has the style you’re looking for in their portfolio. Same goes for your hairstylist.
And if you’re ready to work with me for these, my headshot sessions are an easy 15 to 20 minutes. Afterward you get a gallery of 20+ images to review and 3 images to download. All for $125.