5 Tips for the Best Professional Headshot
Professional headshots have many different uses. They can be a first impression to potential employers or they can even give your company a human face. This being said, it is important that your headshot is the best that it can be. Here are some tips for the best professional headshot to make sure your professional headshot is outstanding:
- Make Sure You Are Dressed Appropriately
When deciding what to wear for your professional headshot, take into account the position you are in or the position you want to have. If your normal work attire consists of a suit, then it would likely be appropriate for you to wear a suit for your headshot. If you do not currently have a position in a company yet, dress for the job that you want. For example, if you are intending to work in a more relaxed office setting, then business casual would likely be suitable. On the other hand, if you are applying for a position at a law firm, then it would be more fitting to wear a suit and a professional shirt along with a tie if applicable.
- Ensure the Location or Backdrop is Appropriate
The location of your headshot can make a big impact on how you are perceived. If the background is busy or full of contrasting imagery, then it would distract from the focus of the headshot: you. Backgrounds full of vibrant patterns or colors may come off as inappropriate and unprofessional. This being said, there is room for creativity when it comes to location and backdrop. Headshots could even be taken outside, assuming it doesn’t make the subject seem out of place in relation to their line of work.
- Don’t Over Do It With Makeup and Hairstyles
A professional headshot is meant to show you in the best light to future employers or clients. Keeping this in mind, you don’t want to give a negative impression by being obviously overdone. Avoid bright, flashy makeup such as vibrant eyeshadows and lipsticks as they may not be perceived well. Also, try not to style your hair in a way that does not reflect how you actually wear your hair. The day of your professional headshot may not be the best day to experiment with a mohawk hairstyle.
- Get a Good Night’s Rest Prior and Hydrate
Professional headshot photography is meant to reflect the best you that you have to offer. Making sure that you are well rested the night prior to your headshot will ensure you don’t look tired in your headshot. Not getting a good sleep prior to your headshot photography session may also yield dark circles under the eyes. Staying hydrated is another means of making sure you look your best in your professional headshot. When you are both rested and well hydrated you will be sure to have better headshot.
- Be Natural
Posing for photos can be intimidating, especially when the photos are as significant as your professional headshot. This can lead to people being nervous and overposing. For the best professional headshot, try and avoid smiles and facial expressions that look artificial or forced. You want to look trustworthy and capable in your headshot so a warm smile is a great idea. Also be mindful of your posture. Standing up straight, with shoulders back shows your professionalism. Again, it’s all about looking relaxed and natural so that you are represented accurately and positively.
Other Tips for the Best Professional Headshot
A professional headshot is a valuable tool for business. When displayed on the company website, high quality headshots provide a personal touch. Seeing real faces behind a company humanize it which can make customers feel more comfortable because they can actually see who they’re doing business with. It is also important that your headshot is updated regularly. As you age or change appearance, it is important that your headshot reflects that. It’s important to avoid misleading customers and provide an accurate depiction of what you truly look like now.
The Takeaway – Professional Headshot Photography
Your headshot is your first impression to clients and employers. Making sure that you follow all the steps to having a great professional headshot will result in making the very best first impression. A professional headshot photography company can get you the high quality headshot that would positively benefit you and your company. Especially in a large city such as Chicago, where competition is stiff, make sure you stand out from the crowd with the best headshot photography.
A great headshot photography company in Chicago, IL, or elsewhere, will help capture the best professional headshot for your professional profile and website. Useful for company websites, LinkedIn profiles, and so much more, headshots are a valuable asset to have. Chicago Corporate Photography and Video can provide the best professional headshots for you and your company. With highly experienced headshot photographers in-house, we are able to capture you at your best.
Do you have questions about high-quality, professional headshot photography? We’re here to answer your questions! Feel free to call us at 312-623-3456.
