Getting a good headshot isn't just about what happens when you step in front of the camera. A little preparation beforehand can make a big difference, and it doesn't have to be complicated. Here are a few things I recommend thinking about before your session.
Think About Where You'll Use It
A headshot for LinkedIn doesn't necessarily need to look the same as one for a company website, speaking engagement, social media, or another professional use. If you know where you'll be using the images, let me know beforehand. We can vary the crop and framing, from a tighter head-and-shoulders portrait to a little more space around you, depending on where the image will be used.
Knowing the purpose of the headshot helps us choose the right clothing, background, lighting, and overall feel.
Bring a Couple of Options
You don't need to bring your entire closet. A couple of different shirts, jackets, or tops give us some flexibility if one option works better on camera than another. Different colors or necklines can also give you a few different looks without changing the whole session.
If you're unsure about something, bring it. We can always decide together.
Keep Hair and Grooming Simple
If you're getting a haircut, don't do it the morning of your session. Give yourself a little time to get used to it. The same goes for any major changes to your appearance. Your headshot should look like you — just on a really good day.
If you wear makeup, keep in mind that what looks subtle in person can sometimes look different under studio lighting. The goal isn't to hide your face. It's to make sure you still look like yourself.
Get Some Sleep
This one sounds obvious, but it really does help. A good night's sleep won't magically make a headshot, but you'll usually feel better, your eyes will look more rested, and you'll have more energy when you arrive. And that tends to show in the photographs.
Arrive a Few Minutes Early
Give yourself a little breathing room. You don't need to arrive twenty minutes early, but arriving a few minutes before your appointment gives you time to park, get settled, and leave the day's chaos outside for a moment. There's no reason to start a session feeling rushed.
Don't Worry About Posing
Most people aren't used to having a camera pointed at them for a professional portrait. That's completely normal. I'll give you direction throughout the session, and we'll make small adjustments as we go. You don't need to know exactly what to do or worry about getting everything right. That's part of my job.
Relax Into It
The first few photographs are often just about getting comfortable. Once you stop thinking so much about the camera, your expression usually becomes more natural. There's no need to force a smile or try to look like someone you're not. We'll find a look that feels right for you and the purpose of the headshot.
One Last Thing
If there's something specific you're trying to accomplish with your headshot, tell me. Maybe you want to look approachable but professional. Confident but not overly corporate. Creative. Serious. Relaxed. There isn't one “correct” headshot.
The goal is to create an image that fits you, where you're using it, and how you want to be seen.
Ready to book your session?30 minutes, in-studio or on location.