Your headshot matters. It’s how people first connect with you, so you want to create an authentic and memorable positive impression. But getting a quality headshot can sometimes prove to be challenging. Before trying, there are some things you should consider.
Appear Friendly and Approachable
Your headshot needs to convey who you are. That’s why it is recommended that you show off your best features, whether these are your sparkling eyes, smoldering good looks, or a charming smile. Just make sure it is true to your personality. You want to appear friendly and approachable. For this, you will need to be relaxed during the session. One way to ensure that is to bring a friend who you are close with so that they can give advice, calm you down should you get nervous, tell you to sit up straighter and so on.
Match Your Appearance to Your Personal Brand
The goal of your headshot photography should be to put a face to your personal brand. This means there is no right or wrong way to present yourself. Your appearance depends mainly on your brand image. For example, if you are a lawyer then you would want a professional image with a plain background and suit. On the other hand, if you are a business owner, then you may want your appearance to be a bit more fun and casual.
Look professional
Wear something professional and make sure it fits well. This is very important. The camera blatantly shows if your shoulders don’t fit into the extra material or if seams are straining. Choose a solid color that is somewhat darker than your skin tone. Come to the session with your clothes pressed and clean. Don’t go crazy with the makeup and hair. Some individuals pay extra to get professional makeup done. It’s often very expensive, and not always necessary.
Go Grayscale for a Classic Look
There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to headshots and one option that has gained a lot of popularity are grayscale photos. While it’s true that colored headshots convey a richness that grayscale photos may not accomplish, grayscale headshots have a charm of their own. They show off the contrasts and texture of the subject much more clearly and generally look timeless.
Use a Professional Photographer
Quality is very important when it comes to headshots. Only a professional photographer can help you get the perfect interview-winning headshot. You might be tempted to save a few bucks by having your friend snap a photo on your phone or digital camera, but it won’t have the quality of a professional photo. It is recommended that you set a budget for your photography session and choose a professional photographer carefully.