The 2022 Guide to Creating Great Headshots
You can’t afford to be without a great headshot – especially if you’re looking to attract new clients and make a solid first impression.
Whether you’re still considering a professional photo session, or you’ve already booked one, here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your headshots.
Your mindset
Before you step into a professional headshot session, you need to adjust your mindset – how you’re feeling shines through in your photos. It’s important to think about how you want to feel during your session, not what you want people to see.
So, how do you adjust your mindset for a photo session? Don’t take it so seriously. Do something before the session that makes you feel your best - whether that’s meditating or getting a workout in. You know what works for you. Or perhaps turning on your favourite tunes and dancing it out will get you in the right headspace. There are no rules, just do what makes you feel good. When you get your mindset right, your personal power and joy will shine through in your photos.
Your outfit
Most headshots are cropped quite tightly, so what you wear is not a make or break.
Unless it fits in with your brand, avoid wearing too much black. Explore other colours that look good on you and choose an outfit, especially a shirt or blouse, that matches your brand.
It’s best to opt for a V-neck, especially if you have a large chest. A top that sits too close around your neck can emphasise your chest.
If you have a broad upper body, opt for a blazer to break it up. Just be sure to create a V-shape by buttoning up your jacket.
If you’re planning to wear accessories, don’t wear anything too bold or shiny – the point is to keep the focus on you, not to create a distraction.
Your makeup & hair
If applicable, makeup is a must before your headshot session, even if you don’t usually wear much or any at all. The biggest priority is to even out your skin tone and remove shine, which can be done with BB cream and a translucent powder. Adding some colour to your cheeks and lift to your lashes is highly recommended, but stay away from overly bright colours to avoid distractions.
When it comes to hairstyle, choose something that suits your position, age, and profession. It’s highly recommended that you have your hair and makeup done by a professional if you want the best results.
Your background
Whether you schedule your shoot in a studio or at a location of your choosing, make sure that your background isn’t a major distraction. Avoid a highly patterned background, loud colours, and elaborate street art. It’s important to keep your brand in mind – you do want to tell a story after all.
Your body language
People don’t often consider how their body language changes their story. Body language refers to the tilt of your head, your gaze and facial expressions, and the position of your shoulders.
Pay attention to your body language in your headshots. Squaring your shoulders and looking too serious can make you look defensive while tilting your head too much can make you come across as childish.
By being aware of these aspects, preparing for your headshot session, and allowing your photographer to guide you, you expect headshots you’re proud of.
If you liked this post, be sure to sign up to receive business branding tips and tricks direct to your inbox.