How’s that headshot looking?
Your headshot is your calling card. We are living in a new business evironment. Work-from-home is with us for good. Along with that comes Zoom, LinkedIn, Telemed, and virtual conferences. It's critical that your profile photo helps you put your best foot forward. Speaking at an in-person conference this year? I want you to have a headshot that pops. Are you a realtor or physician looking to build trust with potential clients or patients? I'm here to help.
Let's go over some tips on how to style yourself for a headshot that represents who you are.
#1 - THE DEFINITION OF CORPORATE HAS CHANGED.
Even my most serious corporate clients have a more causal vibe. Before putting on a suit for your headshot, think about the new industry standards. You can look like a badass without a tie or a jacket. Try a sweater or even a leather jacket.
#2 - LOOK LIKE YOURSELF
My brand is authentic photography. Your customers, clients or patients want to know about your personality. When they meet you, you should look like your headshot. This means "shopping in your closet" for items that you already love and feel good in.
#3 - PLAN AHEAD
Make your selection(s) a few days before your session and TRY EVERYTHING ON. Surprises like too-tight-pants and moth holes in a sweater are guarantee unwanted stress when you are headed out the door. I'm happy to hop on FaceTime or review your looks via text to help you find the right options.
#4 - AVOID BRIGHT/VIBRANT COLORS
...especially red and orange. I want your face to be the focal point of the images we create. Bright colors (red and orange in particular) are selfish colors. They draw the eye in - and away from your face and are quite harsh on skin tones.
#5 - SPEAKING OF YOUR FACE
Your lips are important. Wear lipstick, lip gloss or lip balm. It is nearly impossible to correct dry, cracked lips through editing.
If you wear make-up, apply slightly more than you would normally wear. It's not necessary to get your makeup "done." If you want to do that, PLEASE go for a practice session in advance to be sure that you are happy with the look.
#6 - SWIRLS ARE NOT SWELL
Small checks and stripes create a moire effect in photos that make your clothes looks "swirly." Patterns are fine, just be sure they are substantial.
#7 - THE EYES ARE KEY
If you usually wear glasses, wear them for your session. The big exceptions are polarized or transitions lenses. Those lenses will appear dark and/or make it hard to see your eyes. Sadly, this isn’t something I can fix through editing. So, if you’ve a pair of traditional clear lenses, those are your best option.
#8 - WATCH YOUR WATCH
Apple watches are great for a lot of things but can be problematic for photos. They are just so bulky and rather unattractive. If you can go without, that's great. If you have a significant tan line from your Apple Watch, try wearing a traditional watch to cover it up.
I've got your back. Let's pick a location with great light that has a chill vibe, a spot in your home that show's off your small business, or I can set up my backdrop for a traditional power shot. No matter the look you are hoping for, I'll make sure that your online image grabs the right kind of attention. Give me a shout and let's make it happen!
