10 Tips To Look Good In Business Headshots

Nailing the perfect business headshot is crucial for making a lasting impression and helps to establish yourself as credible in your field. You may want to update LinkedIn, your Google profile or your About page.

Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur, a rising star, or just refreshing your online presence, a great photo is important. Getting that shot that truly captures your personality while looking professional (and on brand!) can be a daunting task. 

With so many factors to consider - from wardrobe choices to lighting setups - it's easy to feel overwhelmed. 

Get ready to bid farewell to the days of stiff, uninspired headshots and hello to images that make you shine.

Understand Your Brand and Audience

Before you even think about posing in front of the camera, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of your target audience. Who are the individuals you're aiming to impress with your headshot? Are they potential clients, industry peers, or prospective employers? 

Knowing the answer to this question will help you tailor your look and persona to resonate with the right people.

Embrace Your Authentic Self

Next, it's time to get in touch with your personal brand. What unique qualities, skills, and experiences do you want to convey through your headshot? Are you aiming for a polished, authoritative vibe or a more approachable, relatable persona? 

Lean into the aspects of your personality that align best with your professional goals, and let that shine through in your final images.

Visualise the End Goal

Once you've identified your target audience and honed in on your brand, it's time to start picturing where your headshot will ultimately end up. Will it be featured on your company's website, splashed across your LinkedIn profile, or used in marketing materials? 

Knowing the specific applications for your headshot will help you make informed decisions about everything from the background and lighting to your wardrobe and pose.

Dress to impress

When it comes to your wardrobe, the golden rule is to steer clear of busy patterns and opt for solid, neutral tones instead. Patterns, especially thin stripes, can create a distracting "moiré effect" that can be challenging to capture clearly on camera. Solid colours, on the other hand, help keep the focus squarely on your face and expression.

The cut and shape of your clothing can also have a significant impact on how you appear in your headshot. Opt for necklines that flatter your face and elongate your neck, such as V-necks or scoop necks. Steer clear of high collars or anything that might feel constricting - you want to look and feel your best in front of the camera.

Accessories can be a powerful tool for adding personality and flair to your headshot. A bold scarf, a sleek pair of earrings, or a stylish tie can all help you infuse your unique brand into the final image. Just be mindful not to let your accessories overshadow the true star of the show: you.

Prep!

While some may feel confident in their DIY hair and makeup skills, don't be afraid to enlist the help of a professional stylist. A skilled hair and makeup artist can work wonders in enhancing your natural features and ensuring that you look polished, camera-ready, and true to your brand.

When it comes to your hair and makeup, less is often more. Aim for a natural, effortless look that aligns with your everyday style. Avoid dramatic changes or bold experimentation - you want your headshot to capture the authentic you, not a completely different persona.

Pay close attention to the smaller details that can make a big difference in your final images. Make sure your hair is neatly groomed and free of flyaways, and that any makeup is applied evenly and blended seamlessly. And don't forget to give your teeth a quick brush for a radiant, confident smile.

The Pose

Most people have a "good side" that they prefer to be photographed from. Take some time to experiment and determine which angle is most flattering for you. Once you've identified your best side, be sure to communicate this to your photographer so they can capture you at your most photogenic.

Relax and Be Yourself

As tempting as it may be to try and strike a rigid, overly posed expression, the key to a great headshot is authenticity. Forget about trying to look "perfect" and instead focus on embodying a natural, relaxed demeanour. Let your genuine personality shine through, and you'll end up with images that feel genuine and approachable.

Experiment with Different Looks

While it's important to have a go-to pose that you feel confident in, don't be afraid to mix things up and try out a variety of expressions and angles. A few subtle adjustments, such as tilting your head or shifting your gaze, can result in dramatically different looks. Work closely with your photographer to explore different options and find the perfect balance of professionalism and personality.

Optimise for Digital

Work with your photographer to ensure that your images are optimised for various digital platforms, with a focus on mobile responsiveness. This may involve adjusting the framing, lighting, and even the background to ensure a seamless, eye-catching experience across all devices.

Leverage Branding Elements

Your headshot is a powerful branding tool, so don't be afraid to incorporate design elements that reinforce your unique identity. This could include incorporating your company's logo, colour scheme, or other visual cues that help solidify your professional image. Just be sure to strike a delicate balance between branding and personal authenticity.

Consider Versatile Formats

Depending on where your headshot will be used, you may need to have it available in a variety of formats and orientations. Work with your photographer to capture images that can be easily cropped and resized to fit the needs of your website, social media profiles, printed materials, and beyond. This level of versatility will ensure that your headshot looks polished and professional no matter where it appears.

Communicate Openly with Your Photographer

The key to a successful headshot session is open and honest communication with your photographer. Don't be afraid to express any concerns or preferences you may have, whether it's about your wardrobe, your pose, or the overall aesthetic you're aiming for. A great photographer will work closely with you to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident throughout the entire process.

Approach It with Positivity and Confidence

Stepping in front of the camera can be nerve-wracking, but try to approach the experience with a positive, confident mindset. Remember that you're not just getting your picture taken - you're showcasing your personal brand and the unique value you bring to the table. Embrace the process, trust your photographer, and let your natural charisma shine through.

Be Willing to Experiment and Iterate

The beauty of a professional headshot session is that it offers you the opportunity to explore different looks and find the one that resonates most with your target audience. Don't be afraid to try new poses, experiment with different wardrobe options, or even request a few touch-ups in post-production. The more open you are to the creative process, the more stunning and impactful your final headshot will be.

You can improve your professional image and make a lasting impression. By understanding your brand, curating the perfect outfit, optimising for digital platforms, and embracing the creative process, you'll be well on your way to headshot success.

Need some solo or team shots? Let’s chat.