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In a world where your online presence and digital image are more important than ever, headshots have become a crucial part of any professional’s portfolio. These are the photos that introduce you to customers, potential clients, hiring managers, etc. through sites like LinkedIn, website bios, marketing collateral… the list goes on! So what does your professional headshot say about you? The goal is to portray professionalism, but also showcase your personality. Sounds like a tall order, right? Hit ’em with your best shot with these eight tips to love your next headshot!
Match your brand
Whether this photo is for a company or for your own business, be sure the colors you choose to wear match the branding. You want images that show you off, not make you clash. Using photo composition, and intentional clothing choices and facial expressions, your headshot can show that you fit right in with your peers.
Use proper lighting
When it comes to a clean, professional headshot, the more natural light, the better. Discuss options for location with your photographer, and decide if you want your photo taken indoors or outdoors. If you choose an indoor session, check on surrounding windows and use as much of the sun as you can. These photos should look natural, not stuffy or manufactured… and that includes the light!
Be comfortable, but be professional
Since most of us don’t wear a suit these days, for a professional headshot, consider a collared shirt or a nice blouse or sweater. Wearing something you’re familiar with will make you feel comfortable and relaxed, so don’t think too far outside the box, but don’t settle for your every day gear, either. For most entrepreneurs, your photo will be used on pricing guides, and sprinkled throughout social media posts. Choose an array of shirts/top combinations (3-4 options) paired with jeans, black or khaki pants. Neutral colors are always a good idea!
Keep hair/makeup simple
When it comes to looking professional, I’ve found that simple is best. In other words, don’t do something you wouldn’t normally do! If you want to get your makeup professionally done, ask the artist to keep your colors and overall look natural. For longer hair, loose curls look great, or loosely pull it all back to let your face be the focal point. For guys, make sure you’ve had a hair cut recently. Showing good hygiene, grooming and personal care will translate to responsible and conscientious attention to detail in a professional headshot.
Go in with confidence
Nobody said you have to be a model, but if you want to look confident in your photo, you need to be confident when it’s taken! If you’re nervous or timid about the experience, reach out and let your photographer know. They’ll likely be armed with prompts and poses to make you feel comfortable in front of the camera!
Stay loose
This one may sound simple, but it can be easy to forget… especially if you’re the subject (and one that’s not comfortable having photos taken). Take some deep breaths and release any tension from your face, neck and shoulders before you begin.
Plan some props
Are you a videographer? A musician? An artist? Bring what you typically have with you to a session. You’d be surprised by the neat ways these tools can be naturally incorporated into photos! Plus, it shows off a little more personality than an ordinary glamour shot would.
Hire a professional
I can’t stress this enough: Don’t try to take the short cut on this one! You get one what you pay for, so if you’re really in need of a few good photos that you can have for long-term use, hire a professional and put the trust in their hands! You want to present yourself professionally. Let a professional do just that.
Are you ready to elevate your digital appearance? Do you need to update headshots that were taken years ago? Send me a message! Portrait sessions capture you at your best in every professional milestone.
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Gallery: My Favorite Colorado Summertime Photo Sessions
Who said this summer could go by so fast? As we head towards Labor Day, I wanted to relive some of my favorite moments by curating a gallery of my favorite summer photo sessions.
This summer, I shot in some of Colorado Springs’ most photogenic places. I traveled to Rocky Mountain National Park twice, took numerous trips to Garden of the Gods, and teamed up with Plated Picnics which brings a luxurious experience to couples and groups of friends that serves amazing grazing boards. I went back to Wisconsin a handful of times and enjoyed weekends near the water. When I was home in Colorado, I soaked up days at the park walking my dog and basked in those beautiful mountain views. When I look back at this past summer, it was filled with beautiful memories and photos.
Slow things down by taking a look at these Colorado summer photo sessions that are full of summer vibes.
Summertime Fun
Rocky Mountain National Park, July 2021
Talk about summer fun! Courtney and Jessie Schwiebert had their elopement photos at one of the best summer spots — Sprague Lake and a mini-golf course! These two had the most beautiful day — it was so hard to narrow down my favorites.
Magical Summer Nights
Garden of the Gods Park in collaboration with Plated Picnics, July 2021
Is there a more magical way to spend a summer evening than with a perfectly set picnic table, an expertly curated charcuterie spread … and a surprise proposal? I was so grateful to share this experience with Drew and Krupa.
Lakeside Summer Celebration
Rocky Mountain National Park, Sprague Lake, June 2021
What says Colorado more than summer sun with snowy mountains in the background? Amber and Dylan’s elopement and Rocky Mountain National Park couldn’t have fallen on a more perfect summer day!
Summertime, Rain or Shine
Cheyenne Mountain State Park, June 2021
As I was heading to Treasure and Dakota’s proposal session, it was pouring rain. But as soon as we got to our spot, the skies opened and the sun shone through! Also, A+ on their outfit selection?
Summer Love
Cheyenne Mountain State Park, June 2021
How beautiful are Kayla and Craig? These two had such a great June engagement photo session, soaking up the earliest summer warmth.
