Headshot Photos
There comes a time in every person’s life when it’s time to take new headshots. Nope, it’s not just a task reserved for actors and models, although they of course are the main subject matter that comes to mind. But the fact is, in an ever-expanding digital world, most professionals need to have at least one good photo of their mug on file. Realtors, writers, nurses, bankers, public relations managers, and even custodians have likely been clicked a time or two.
Some cases are less of a hassle than others, like for those who are just needing a company thumbnail for a website or scannable badge. That camera session is as short and sweet as a picture day or a new driver’s license- in and out within one minute, and you may not get a do-over if you blinked. Other times, like when you’re making a new LinkedIn photo or creating a back cover for your book, the process is a little more involved. In instances like these, your headshot is saying something about you. It’s important to get it just right because you’re marketing your services or skills for profit. So what’s a person to do if they aren’t really the photoshoot type and have little to no idea of a solid approach?
Hire an Expert
If you’re on your own to find a photographer, you better make sure it’s somebody who knows what they’re doing. This is especially true if you don’t have a lot of experience taking pictures. The right professional will know how to place you, pose you, and light you correctly so that you’ll look your best. They’ll also have all the superlative equipment that will help you to capture high-quality images. Do your research and ask around to find out who you can trust. Someone who has done a lot of work with established companies is probably a safe bet. Check out their website or portfolio and if you like what you see, ring them up for their rates
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Think About Your Message
What are you hoping to express in your headshot? Do you want to create a friendly, approachable feel? Or are you trying to embody a sense of knowledge and authority? Believe it or not, these subliminal narratives can be picked up through jpegs. The lighting and background that you use will greatly affect the mood, so let your photographer know what you’re going for. You should also keep your audience in mind when you’re choosing your outfit and poses. If you want to be taken seriously as a business professional, you’ll want to wear a nice, sharp suit. If you’re aiming to be more relatable, feel free to let your personality shine through in your wardrobe.
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Know Your Angles
This is a big one. As already mentioned, the choice of lighting can alter the composition of your photo very drastically. Your body posture will, too. Moving as little as an inch can shed pounds and hide wrinkles. Your photographer should be able to help guide you in looking your best, but just in case, here are a few basic tips. For one, coming from a slight side angle and chilting your chin slightly downward is a flattering look on almost anyone. Don’t forget to suck in your tummy and keep a good shoulder posture. Above all, be natural and don’t overthink it. When you’re relaxed on set, it shows in the final product.
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Headshot Photos
There comes a time in every person’s life when it’s time to take new headshots. Nope, it’s not just a task reserved for actors and models, although they of course are the main subject matter that comes to mind. But the fact is, in an ever-expanding digital world, most professionals need to have at least one good photo of their mug on file. Realtors, writers, nurses, bankers, public relations managers, and even custodians have likely been clicked a time or two.
Some cases are less of a hassle than others, like for those who are just needing a company thumbnail for a website or scannable badge. That camera session is as short and sweet as a picture day or a new driver’s license- in and out within one minute, and you may not get a do-over if you blinked. Other times, like when you’re making a new LinkedIn photo or creating a back cover for your book, the process is a little more involved. In instances like these, your headshot is saying something about you. It’s important to get it just right because you’re marketing your services or skills for profit. So what’s a person to do if they aren’t really the photoshoot type and have little to no idea of a solid approach?
Hire an Expert
If you’re on your own to find a photographer, you better make sure it’s somebody who knows what they’re doing. This is especially true if you don’t have a lot of experience taking pictures. The right professional will know how to place you, pose you, and light you correctly so that you’ll look your best. They’ll also have all the superlative equipment that will help you to capture high-quality images. Do your research and ask around to find out who you can trust. Someone who has done a lot of work with established companies is probably a safe bet. Check out their website or portfolio and if you like what you see, ring them up for their rates
DSC_2417-3.JPG
Think About Your Message
What are you hoping to express in your headshot? Do you want to create a friendly, approachable feel? Or are you trying to embody a sense of knowledge and authority? Believe it or not, these subliminal narratives can be picked up through jpegs. The lighting and background that you use will greatly affect the mood, so let your photographer know what you’re going for. You should also keep your audience in mind when you’re choosing your outfit and poses. If you want to be taken seriously as a business professional, you’ll want to wear a nice, sharp suit. If you’re aiming to be more relatable, feel free to let your personality shine through in your wardrobe.
DSC_2417-2.JPG
DSC_2418.JPG
DSC_2421.JPG
Know Your Angles
This is a big one. As already mentioned, the choice of lighting can alter the composition of your photo very drastically. Your body posture will, too. Moving as little as an inch can shed pounds and hide wrinkles. Your photographer should be able to help guide you in looking your best, but just in case, here are a few basic tips. For one, coming from a slight side angle and chilting your chin slightly downward is a flattering look on almost anyone. Don’t forget to suck in your tummy and keep a good shoulder posture. Above all, be natural and don’t overthink it. When you’re relaxed on set, it shows in the final product.
DSC_2438.JPG
DSC_2443.JPG