When everything is digitalized, and most of the communication is done online, the first impression is harder to turn into a positive experience. However, there is one thing you can add to your profile to make it more appealing to your customers – a professional headshot.
Your headshot, when done right, can be used as a tool to shape how well you are perceived by people who haven’t had a chance to meet you in person.
Whether you’re a business leader, actor, model, or entrepreneur, a well-taken headshot goes beyond being just a photo. It’s your visual introduction that portrays you as confident, approachable, and credible.
Ready to learn how to achieve a professional headshot? Keep reading to find out!
What Is a Professional Headshot?
A professional headshot is a polished, authentic representation of you designed to showcase your best self. While hiring a professional photographer is key, their value lies not just in technical expertise but in their ability to capture your unique personality while maintaining a professional tone.
Typically featured on company websites or LinkedIn, a strong headshot enhances your personal image and elevates your company’s credibility—an essential asset in any career field.
Why Should You Consider a Professional Headshot?
A professional headshot goes beyond featuring your face on a website, book, social media, or CV – it’s a way to make a strong first impression. Instead of having your photo taken in a casual setting, a professional headshot can convey your professionalism and approachability, especially when you’re connecting with industry professionals, potential clients, or employers.
One shouldn’t underestimate the impact of a headshot as a powerful element of personal branding. After all, it is a visual representation of your identity that can communicate who you are at a single glance.
Having no photo or one taken in a setting that portrays you in a bad light may have a negative influence. However, a professional headshot is what will establish trust and add credibility to your persona.
Professional Headshot Dos and Don’ts
Set, pose, click! Has the photo turned out the way you want? Or is there anything off-putting telling you in the back of your head that you can’t turn your finger around? If yes, check out our tips for headshots, ensuring your next photo turns out exactly how you want it.
Dos:
Preparations
- Wardrobe: First things first, and your number one step should be your outfit. Choose an outfit that will suit the industry you work in. For example, you can choose an outfit you would wear for an interview. We advise wearing solid colors to keep a focus on your face.
- Mirror practicing: Instead of taking a selfie, look at the mirror and check for your best angles and facial expressions. Relax your face, practice a soft smile, and try to appear natural before the camera lens.
- Hairstyle: Make sure you style your hair so that it doesn’t cover your face. Men should aim for neat hair with a fresh shave, while women should opt for natural makeup and a polished look.
Pose and Expression
- Relaxed yet natural: Aim for a relaxed posture and natural expression. To feel comfortable in front of the camera, take a deep breath, relax your shoulders, and focus on soft and confident facial expressions.
- Try different angles: Don’t stick to a single posture; try different poses throughout the session, change the position of your hands, and feature different profiles.
- Look at the camera: For a professional headshot, you should maintain eye contact with the camera lens as if you are speaking directly to your audience.
Choosing the Right Photographer
- Choose a professional photographer: At Pixel Studio Productions, you can hire a professional photographer who knows exactly how to set lighting, angles, and composition. We know how to make you look your best.
- Share your goals: It’s utterly important to communicate your goals with your photographer before the session. This way, your professional headshot will be able to project you as confident, friendly, or authoritative.
Don’ts
Common Mistakes
- Don’t forget to relax: It’s not every day you appear before the camera, but stiffness in your posture will come across as forced in your headshot. Loosen up, have a quick chat with your photographer, or have a friend join your session – whatever helps you feel more confident and comfortable.
- Don’t overdo your makeup: When it comes to a professional headshot, it’s good to remember that less is more. Heavy makeup may appear unnatural; hence, it’s best to keep it light.
What to Avoid in Attire
- Keep your attire simple: To keep a focus on your face, it’s best to avoid large accessories or busy patterns.
- Choose comfortable clothing: To feel confident and relaxed during your session, wear attire that fits you well.
Headshot Faux Pas
- Bad posture: Slouching, bending your head far back or forward, and posing awkwardly should all be avoided. Aim for a relaxed and natural look.
- Avoiding eye contact: Looking away or down when taking a headshot may make you appear disengaged. Your photographer will surely guide you on how to pose, but you should always remember to keep your chin up and make eye contact with the camera.
Professional Headshot Tips
Professional headshot dos and don’ts are a must for any professional looking to create a confident and authentic identity. We consider a few more tips important and something you’d want to know before booking your photo session.
What to Wear for Your Headshot?
Earlier, we mentioned dressing as if you were to attend an interview, and we would like to elaborate further on this rather important topic. Here is what dress code you should stick to:
- Avoid white clothing: White color can reflect the light, and it might steal the focus from your face. If you do want to wear white, try pairing it with a jacket or sweater of a different color.
- Avoid neon colors: Sticking to a basic color palette will ensure your headshot appears professional. However, if you want to jazz up your outfit, go for bright matte colors instead.
- Wear comfortably but not baggy: We’ve mentioned that dressing up comfortably will help you feel more confident in your attire – however, try to avoid baggy clothes as they can make you look heavier than you actually are.
- Choose your background: It’s wise to contact your photographer to ask what color the background is going to be to avoid blending in with it. If the background is set to be grey, it’s always better to wear lighter colors.
How to Style Your Hair for Your Headshot?
When it comes to hair styling for a headshot, simplicity is key. There’s no hard-and-fast rule, but the goal is to ensure your face is the focal point. Keep your hair neat and styled in a way that frames your face without overshadowing it. Avoid overly elaborate styles that might distract from your features.
How to Stand or Sit for Your Headshot?
Both standing and sitting positions are good choices for professional headshots. You should go for the option that makes you most comfortable. Either way, remember to lower your shoulders, keep your chin up, and back straight.
As for your hands, you can keep them in your pockets if standing or on your thighs if sitting. Since the focus will be on your face, your hands will not be the main concern.
Examples of Professional Headshots
At Pixel Studio Productions, we prioritize communications, ensuring you feel confident in front of the camera and are happy with the final results. If you are wondering what professional headshots look like, here are prominent examples:
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You can see how each of the professional headshots ticks all the boxes of a great, confident, and credible photo. Each industry expert you see in the photos appears relaxed, posing naturally, with a neat and simple hairstyle.
You might also have noticed that we don’t choose basic background plans—instead, we opt for a background that compliments your outfit or the work you do.
Elevate Your Professional Image – Schedule Your Session Today!
A well-executed headshot can transform your personal brand and make a lasting impression on employers and potential clients even before they get a chance to meet you in person. By investing in a professional headshot, you can open a door of opportunities and portray yourself in the best light possible.
Do you want to look confident, relaxed, and welcoming in your professional headshot? Book your session with Pixel Studio Productions, and let us help you stand out!
