Here are some helpful tips about why you need one and how to get a good one
Listen, I know it’s 2022 and there are cameras everywhere, and you can very easily “get by” with a photo taken on your iPhone or Android device for your profile image on social. Nevermind that there’s a whole lot of opinions about what makes a “good” headshot. The characteristics of a good headshot include:
- You can see your face clearly, the lighting is flattering (not harsh) and you aren’t cast in cast heavy shadows.
- Your clothing, hair and any makeup or jewelry are not distracting.
- You appear friendly and approachable
- It shows off your personality
You only get one chance to make a first impression
While the business world is no longer full of 3 piece suits and pencil skirts, our image still matters. Is it OK for a potential employer or client to see some of your personal images? Sure, if your profiles aren’t locked down for privacy and you share things on social media, there is a chance they’ll see you smiling on a beach or out with friends.
Do you want the first thing they see is a picture of you and your bestie or significant other in a raunchy pose after one too many cocktails? Probably not, because as much as we love wearing pajama bottoms with a shirt and tie for those Zoom meetings we do understand that putting our “best” face forward is still important if we want to be taken seriously.
Your headshot represents you, your personality, and gives you the opportunity to make a connection with someone before they even meet you in person (or virtually!). It supports your credibility as a ___________(business owner, professional, industry expert, etc).
So what should you do to get a “good” headshot?
There are several things to think about when scheduling a headshot appointment. The right photographer and following a few guidelines about what to wear apparel and accessories can help you photograph well on camera and align with expectations in your industry.
Choose an experienced headshot photographer
Just because a photographer *can* doesn’t mean they *should* – headshots are just as much of a specialty as newborns or weddings or boudoir. Headshot photographers need to have knowledge of lighting and posing and understand why different industries have different needs for a finished image. Do you need a specific background or pose or lighting setup because your company requires it? Can you wear whatever you want or do you need to wear a specific shirt or uniform? A photographer who took the time to learn this will be more familiar with the needs of businesses and professionals. They will also understand that you may need the images delivered in different sizes or formats.
Be thoughtful about what you wear
COLOR
Wear colors that compliment your skin tone. Try and stay away from pure white – instead select ivory or off white. White can impact your final image because of how white behaves under different lighting and locations. Bright, bold colors can be a great way to capture people’s attention, especially in creative industries. Light colors can make you appear more approachable, dark colors and suits give a perception of authority. Dark + light (think navy blazer and light blue button down shirt) may be more appropriate for conservative environments while muted colors can be good for industries and professionals who want to exude calmness. Generally jewel tone blues, greens, and purples are complimentary for a variety of skin tones and personalities.
PATTERNS
Stay away from busy patterns – they can create something called the moiré effect, in which they become blurry and unrecognizable on camera and make it hard to create a strong final image. For a headshot you want to minimize distractions and draw attention to your face; solid colors rather than patterns are going to do that. If you want to wear a pattern, select a simple one like wide stripes or large polka dots and consider putting a solid-colored jacket on top. Also consider the location – are you in a studio? Outdoors? Inside at a coffee shop? You don’t want a pattern that’s going to be too busy or detract from you or the location.
FIT
Fit is really important – choose something that fits you well and isn’t too tight or too baggy. Consider investing in a tailor and check your outfit in a full length mirror. Something too big will look like you’re wearing a sack and something too small will show EVERYTHING, even the things you may not want to show. Also consider the undergarments – undershirts, slips, bras, shapewear – you don’t want to have something show through and not everything can be fixed in photoshop!
INDUSTRY
Some industries require more formality, like suits, and others you can get away with business casual. Even in some of the creative industries your position may dictate what you should or should not be wearing. Create a balance between the expectation and your personal style. Think about who you want to engage with your headshot and dress the part.
ACCESSORIES, HAIR, AND MAKEUP
Choose jewelry, ties, scarves, earrings, etc carefully – you don’t want something that is going to distract from your face. Try to create a balanced look. If you wear glasses – especially if they have transition lenses or the lenses with an anti-glare/anti-reflective coating, consider getting a pair of frames without lenses or remove the lenses for the photo. Style your hair and makeup as you usually would – you want your headshot to reflect YOU, so don’t go all glam or try something new – the real you won’t match your image!
Are you ready for your closeup?
So the short answer is yes, you do need a headshot, even with all the fancy technology and changing business world. While a lot of us can get by wearing yoga pants while we work from our sofa, we still want to put our best face forward for our business or profession and your image really still does matter. Get in touch to schedule your headshot session with me today.
