Headshot Preparation Guide
Headshots may be the most basic way to photograph someone, but not every headshot session is treated in the same way. When booking a headshot session, it's important to think about how the shots are going to be used. Who is your viewing audience and what do you want to say about yourself in your photos? This will help determine what you should wear to your session. One thing I can almost guarantee is that if you are booking a headshot session, it is because people need to associate a face with whatever it is that you do. That being said, a good first impression is paramount. So, let's start with the most common reason people come to me for headshots.
ALL BUSINESS
WHAT TO WEAR / NOT WEAR
A corporate headshot should tell your company's potential clients that you are professional, so you don't want to show up to your shoot in your favorite t-shirt or hoodie. A nicely fitted blazer or business jacket is always a good option, but there are many fashionable tops and shirts that look great without a jacket. Make sure that your clothing is free of lint, wrinkles, and and any bold patterns or logos as these things can be very distracting and will delay your turnaround time.
Notice the clean and crisp look of this client's suit to the left. Many times a tie is optional for a business look unless you have a high profile occupation or your employer specifically requires it. Many of my clients work in real estate, law, or public service, so if you're one of them, you likely already have something like this in your closet.
Depending on your field, you may have more flexibility in this area. If you're a painter or a tattoo artist, you may want to show up in something more relaxed and casual or something that expresses your personal style a bit more. We'll get more into that in my Business Portraits / Personal Branding section.
ACCESSORIES
Keep it simple. If you're opting for a statement necklace, then keep your earrings simple and vice versa. Remember that we are advertising YOU and not your jewelry (unless you're a fashion designer). That statement piece of jewelry you love so much would corporate headshot. Please remember that corporate headshots are not about playing dress-up, but rather making you look like a professional in your field. The people who are looking to do business with you only want to see what you look like to put a face with your name. Heavy makeup and jewelry is only a distraction and you may not be taken seriously by potential clients or employers who may be looking to buy a house .
WARDROBE FIT
The most important thing is that your wardrobe flatters your body! Most of us have something we don't like about our looks and can sometimes be critical of our own bodies. Don't emphasize your insecurities. For example, if you are self conscious about your arms, try downplaying that with a fitted blazer or a nice long sleeved blouse. That being said, trust that I will be sensitive to this not only by choosing the best camera angles and lighting for you, but by coaching you through the poses.
If you're really not sure what to wear, you can try doing a Google search on what professionals in your field are wearing on the job or for a job interview. Pinterest also has great wardrobe ideas that are body type specific. I can't tell you how many times someone has shown up for a session with a sleeveless top and then asks if I can photoshop their arms to look skinny. Please understand that your retouching does not include digital plastic surgery or liposuction as that does not align with my ethical standards of practice.
HAIR AND MAKEUP
In a perfect world, we would all have our own makeup artist and hair stylist and I know a few who I can recommend for our session. However, if you're comfortable doing your own makeup, then here are my suggestions for you:
Stick with earth tones on your eyes, but don't be afraid to wear a little more than you normally would, being sure that your foundation truly matches your skin tone. Remember you are going to be very well lit and photographed in high resolution by a professional, so there's no throwing a beauty filter on your images after you get them. Your images will be retouched in the most natural way possible.
Know how you are going to wear your hair and if necessary have your ends trimmed a few days or a week beforehand. Do not get a fresh cut right before your session. It does not matter if your hair is pulled back or worn down, as long as it looks neat and is not covering your face.
PLAN AHEAD!
The key to a great shoot is planning, so take the time to choose your wardrobe in advance so that you are not stuck throwing something together at the last minute. That includes having earrings or necklace already picked out as well. Always get plenty of rest the night before any photo shoot for best results! I can whiten teeth, reduce shiny skin, and even smooth frizz, but if you show up looking and feeling exhausted it will absolutely affect your session. Last but not least...practice your smile in the mirror! Play with your hair and turn your head to either side. Most of us do not have perfectly symmetrical faces, so you may find that you have a "good side". For most people, it is their left side. Sounds weird right? It's true and has been scientifically proven. Here's a short funny video posted by Dr. Fayez:
BUSINESS PORTRAITS & Personal Branding Sessions
This is where many of my clients are able to really get into their comfort zone.
If you're going for something a little more than just a headshot to go on a business card, then this section is for you. This section is for my small business owners, freelancers and anyone who has a story to tell with their images. While the previously mentioned wardrobe tips may still apply, you have a little bit more room to personalize your session when using the images for marketing a company or brand on a website, social media, or just advertising in general.
This is where we move from just head and shoulders 'all business' shots to images with a more personable feel. This is where you are able to connect with your audience through different poses and expressions. Images can be sitting on a couch or have more of an 'on the job' feel depending on your occupation. These images are photographed to include more of the background or the type of environment you're in. Props or tools you use on the job can be a great way to personalize your session.
These images are great for social media, flyers, and advertising. If you have a logo you'd like me to use in your images just let me know and we can talk about a branding session.
