Tips for a Great Professional Headshot Session

Getting ready for a headshot session can feel a little intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn, refreshing your brand, or just need a photo that actually feels like you, a little preparation goes a long way. These tips will help you feel more confident, more comfortable, and more like yourself in front of the camera.

Where do you want to Have your Professional Headshot session?

Think about what would work best for you, your personality and your brand or uses.

Do you want to have something traditional and in the studio? Plan for some simple greys or other neutral colors. This type of headshot is very versatile and can be used many places and for many professional situations.

Do you want something really colorful that you can use for fun pops of personality? If your brand or company is a bit more laid back, consider stepping it up with a bright, fun color instead of a neutral. This can really help your headshot stand out!

Are you hoping for something out in nature or downtown? On location, outdoor headshots in an environment that fits the aesthetic of your brand or business can be a great way to incorporate your headshots into the rest of your branding. For example a real estate agent getting a headshot in front of an urban or suburban backdrop.

Would a photo of you working in your office or home be best? If you really shine in your workplace, consider having your photos in your office and make your headshots more like action shots!

If you'd like a little bit of a few different types of shots, plan ahead. Make sure you have outfits for each of the situations. Or small adjustments to your outfit that will help you transition from one set of shots to another.

What should I wear to my headshots?

Decide if you'd prefer a more corporate or professional look or something more casual and fun. Depending on your brand or your position, different types of looks may suite your portraits.

You can dress it up more with a really polished, professional look with a blazer, slacks or even full suit. Consider a less common color, like grey to stand out. Or add some unique accessories like a fun necklace or earrings or tie to make the look more your own.

If you prefer a more relaxed or casual look, plan something that communicates your personality in a professional way, but looks a bit more approachable. Instead of a blazer consider a leather jacket or a sweater. Or just wear a button up shirt or blouse or a fun dress. Or even a t-shirt with your brand name on it.

Not sure what you'll need for the future? Plan one of each look! Bring something you can easily change into and get photos that fit several different aesthetics. For more tips on what to wear check out this blog post: Help! What do I wear?

Do I need any props for branding or headshot photos?

If your brand or job works well to be shown visually, bring some props. Artists have brought paint brushes, real estate agents have used a key or keychain, photographers and videographers can include their camera, bloggers can bring their laptop or a notebook, etc. Props are a necessity, but they can make your photos a bit more you and help you stand out!

Some helpful tips for your professional headshots!

• Bring a lint roller and hair products. While I have some of these things at the studio to help you out, and try to have some on location, there are times when I might miss something. If you own pets or will want to fix up your hair, consider bringing a few supplies with you.

• Think about what type of impression you'd like your photos to make and let's talk about it. To get you the best photos possible, your photographer needs to know what you're hoping for, what will be most useful to you, and what you think looks good.

• Take a deep breath, relax and think about something that you really enjoy. This will help you look approachable and have a genuine smile.

Want a more in depth branding session? Check out these tips on prepping for a branding session! Trying to decide on the best location for your next headshot session? Make sure to pop into the KatFour Photo Location Guide for ideas!