7 Tips for Amazing Headshots

A great headshot doesn’t just happen. It doesn’t matter how fancy or expensive the photographer’s gear is. However, with some intentionality and preparation, you can achieve stunning headshots to share for your next opportunity.  We are visual beings, so how we present ourselves is very important. Here are a few tips that you can use to crush your upcoming headshot session and create confident and attractive images that present you in a good light to your audience.

Prepare to be amazing!

Preparation always starts in the mind. What is the vision for your headshots? Discuss that with your photographer and allow them to guide you. Also, the night before the shoot, hydrate, get adequate rest and give yourself some self-care. You would be amazed how it elevates your look, gets your skin popping and uplifts your mood! I would recommend preparing the logistics of your attire, make-up, accessories, hair and other details the night before so that you can arrive at the session on time and avoid all unnecessary stress.

Let your make-up accentuate your beauty

Ladies, get your hair and makeup done. Gents, wash, cut, trim and shave. Paying attention to details shows that you care about your image. However, I would caution against the need to feel obligated to go full glam when capturing your essence during a headshot session. [Full Glam is considered to be heavy makeup, with multiple layers, contouring, baking, thick strip lashes and heavy cut creases] Here in The Bahamas, this is almost standard when taking portraits. Don’t get me wrong, I love to go full glam when I’m on vacation, celebrating my birthday or going on a hot date with my husband. Therefore, consider if it would be appropriate based on your profession. If you are a beauty influencer, fashion producer or the like, then it might be more appropriate for branding. But if you work in a more conservative or corporate setting, allow your natural beauty to shine through. It’s important that your images actually look like you and that people aren’t second-guessing your identity when you arrive at a meeting. 

Choose your outfit purposefully

It’s also important to shine for all the right reasons. Bright colours should be avoided unless they tell an overall story that is authentic to your brand. Stay away from flamboyant trends unless they strategically tell your story. Headshot photography normally appeals to corporate environments and professionals. As a result, the standard of neutral or darker-toned clothing is widely accepted. I love going against the gain by finding subtle ways to make portraits stand out among a sea of professionals, but it should be strategic. Your garments should also be clean, pressed and in good condition.

Bring the personality

Beauty without personality falls flat. Beauty is more than your outer appearance but the light of the eyes, the hint of a smile and other facial expressions. Getting rest the night before is recommended so that you can perform at your best during the headshot session. Allow your personality to shine through your photos through your demeanour and body language. In a headshot, your face is not the only focal point. Persons also judge your posture and overall vibe. You can tell a lot about someone through a captured photo. Lead with a positive attitude and it will shine through in your portraits.

Bring a little extra

Use props that tell your story in a meaningful way. If you work in the health or legal system, consider how an instrument of your profession would translate on camera. In addition to props, bring essentials to touch up the hair or makeup if necessary.

Speak with your eyes

Professional models were known to “smize” or smile with their eyes. Give it a try in the mirror and see if it works for you. Also, if you wear glasses, be sure they are clean and smudge-free.

Practice in the mirror

Practice makes perfect! A 2-3 minute warm-up in the mirror could do wonders. It’ll help you to gain more confidence and inform you of your better sides and angles. Present confidence in your body language, hold your chin up to show presence, and stick your neck out! It seems weird, but it works!

Relax and have fun

Smile, try different angles and enjoy the process. I always attempt to get my clients comfy by making conversation and getting them to laugh and be themselves. Trust your photographer’s expertise throughout the session. Hopefully, you choose them because they are skilled at what they do. They will guide you on posing and angles to ensure you look your best. Stay calm, enjoy the experience, and let your personality shine through.

A well-prepared headshot will leave a lasting impact! Now that you have amazing new headshots, go ahead and update your professional website and social media pages with your stunning image! If you are still having doubts, let’s connect and I’d be happy to walk you through this process and provide you with stunning headshots you’ll love!

-LaShawn