If you’re a professional in need of well-done headshots, there are some things you should know prior to scheduling your session. These tips are what you need to ensure you get the most out of your headshot process and that you end up with images that achieve your desired purpose, making it easy for you to make a great first impression.

What is a headshot?

Before you enlist a photographer, you should know what exactly a headshot is and what it helps you to accomplish. A headshot is a professionally taken portrait designed to show your profile from the shoulders and to be used in professional and career settings such as theater, job applications, business cards, or online business profiles. A headshot can be used for a variety of reasons, but one of the most common uses are headshots for acting, to help entertainment professionals start building a portfolio of assets surrounding their appearance and strengths.

Hire a professional

One of the best things you can do when you are considering headshots, regardless of your purpose, is hiring a professional that specializes in headshots. While some people might try to save money by having friends or family take their pictures, this is highly advised against. When you think about it, the entire purpose of a headshot is to project a professional reputation and appearance. When you don’t use a professional for your headshots, you are defeating that purpose. If you are investing time and energy in a headshot, then you might as well invest a bit more capital to ensure you select one that will meet the expectations of what a professional headshot is.

Energy

Remember your facial emotion and demeanor is perhaps the most important factor in determining the quality of the photo that is taken. When it comes time to actually take the images that will become your headshots, it’s important that you exude energy and confidence. Without any energy, your headshots will fall flat and not leave a lasting impression. Make sure to prep yourself before your session to ensure the maximum positive effect.

Keep it professional

When taking your headshots, remember is to always keep it professional. Headshots are meant to be professional assets and while you can let your personality shine a bit when you take the photo, you should make sure the photo remains a professional addition to your portfolio. Companies and casting agencies will be looking at your headshots, so be sure to make the right impression. The more your photographer knows you and what you’ll use the headshot for, the more effective she will be coaching you into the best poses and expressions.

Consider use

For headshots, it is important that you consider what you will be using the photos for. Whether it be for business cards, social media, a website, casting submissions, or a multi-use image that you can use with everything. This will help you determine wardrobe, lighting, and emotion. You should always custom tailor the circumstances of your headshot with the application it will be used for. Remember, if you have specific uses in mind — i.e. a LinkedIn profile — your photographer can provide specially cropped and sized images. Again, communicate with your photographer.

Also see • Nail Your Headshots • It’s Not You, It’s Your Photographer • More Articles