Professional Headshots Tips
Taking a professional headshot is a serious undertaking and requires some thought and advance preparation. It is an image that will be on your website, corporate profile, job search engine or other media for at least 5 to 10 years. Any money and time you spend planning and preparing for your photo session will be worth it. No amount of “photoshopping” beats getting the image right the first time. Like the proverb says, “Measure twice, cut once.” In my culture, the proverb says to measure 7 times!! Without further ado, here are some tips to help you navigate your professional photoshoot.
First, let’s talk about clothes choices. Stick to solid and neutral colors that flatter your skin complexion. Look back at your older photos and see if there is a color that you like yourself in. Is there an outfit you got many compliments on? I would avoid patterns unless it is a matching family photoshoot, or you work in entertainment. When in doubt opt for light blue. Wear clothes that fit, which means they are not too big and not too small. Need help, go to a department store and have a salesperson select an outfit for you. On the day of the shoot make sure your clothes are wrinkle, stain, and hair free. Can’t iron? Take them to the dry cleaners! For hair get a lint roller, especially if you have a dark outfit. Also, bring several outfits to the shoot or choose layers. For example, you can wear a collared shirt with a tie and a blazer. You can easily lose the tie and take off the blazer to get different looks. Don’t forget accessories like scarves and hats, which can make a huge difference to your image. If you want to look younger, wear a crewneck.
Next, let’s talk about the face. Headshot usually means most of the image is focused on your face. Clean it, moisturize it, remove sleep from your eyes, brush your teeth and floss, shave right before and don’t cut yourself in the process. Do you sweat easily or have that shiny spot that always looks like a light bulb on your phone pictures? Use make-up. Yes, some powder for both women and men. When applying make-up, take your time so you evenly apply the foundation, lipstick, and mascara. Brush your hair and if it is unruly use some product to tame the mane. Bring a comb with you. I cannot emphasize enough that the camera sees it all. Do you wear glasses? If so, make sure you clean them thoroughly.
Lastly, practice your looks! Yes, think about the movie Zoolander and the “Magnum”. Stand in front of a mirror after brushing your teeth and make faces - happy, sad, smiling, angry, seductive, powerful, sparkle in your eyes. If you don’t want to show your teeth, then practice a small smile with a closed mouth. Do you know which is your most flattering side? Are there images of your face you like or dislike? Or do you have inspirational images? Share them with your photographer.
And always, remember to have FUN!
