{"id":637,"date":"2023-12-01T11:49:25","date_gmt":"2023-12-01T11:49:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.latterly.org\/?p=637"},"modified":"2024-02-09T01:45:38","modified_gmt":"2024-02-09T01:45:38","slug":"professional-headshot","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.latterly.org\/professional-headshot\/","title":{"rendered":"Handle Your Professional Headshot Like a Pro: 15 Tips & Tricks"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Your professional headshot is the perfect opportunity to make a lasting first impression. Whether you\u2019re using your headshot while searching for a job, for a speaking engagement<\/a>, or to do some online networking, it\u2019s important to remember you\u2019re conveying information about your competence and confidence<\/a> long before you meet face-to-face.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

They say a picture is worth a thousand words and when it comes to headshots, that couldn\u2019t be more true. Because you want to make a killer first impression, your professional headshot must demonstrate a level of professionalism while exuding enough enthusiasm that encourages people to learn more about you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When taking professional headshot photos or using a\u00a0professional headshot generator<\/a>, the goal is to appear personable and give the viewer a feel for\u00a0your<\/em>\u00a0personality. Making the wrong face, wearing the wrong outfit, or not being fully prepared for your photos could cause you to look frightened or unpolished when you want to look intelligent, optimistic, and\u00a0eager to learn<\/a>. Be sure to check out the following tips to look your absolute best in your headshot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Find the Right Photographer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Finding the right photographer is the absolute most important thing in getting a good headshot. Spend some time looking for the right person \u2013 it will pay off in the end.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. Review the photographer\u2019s previous work. Most photographers have an online portfolio of work. Look for someone who focuses on headshots as it\u2019s an art all its own. Review several in your area to find one who captures the person\u2019s personality and an image you\u2019d like to portray.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Read online reviews. Consider both likes and dislikes about the photographer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Do a consultation with the photographer. Talk to her about your goals, show them pictures of headshots you found online that you like, get a feel for her style and approach to headshots.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  4. Get super clear on the price. Pricing can get confusing for photos. Make sure you know exactly what you\u2019ll be getting and for how much.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n
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    Wear the Right Attire for Your Photos<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    Knowing what to wear and how to wear it can make all the difference in your professional headshot photos. Use these simple suggestions to ensure the focus is more on your face and less on what you\u2019re wearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Professional Suiting Recommended<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Consider the message you want to express in your headshot. If you\u2019re in an executive or in a professional job, wear a suit jacket. You\u2019ll not only look put together, but the structure of a suit jacket can communicate leadership<\/a> and confidence<\/a>. Since you\u2019ll have to wear a top under the jacket, the layering will add some nice dimension and can allow for a pop of color.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Stick With Solid Colors<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Even if you love patterns and designs, it\u2019s best to wear a solid color jacket and top for your headshot, keeping the focus on your face. Choose a color that pairs well with your skin\u2019s undertones. For example, those with warmer skin tones often feel most confident in red and light brown shades, while those with much cooler skin tones tend to look their best in hues of purple and blue. Pick a color that you believe highlights your features.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    If you\u2019re unsure which colors look best on you and are having difficulty choosing a solid color to wear, consider using color psychology. Brighter shades of orange and coral are commonly associated with friendliness and optimism, while shades of blue can make someone look more dependable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Neutrals such as black, grey and tan work as well. Take a few jackets, tops, and dresses to your shoot to see what looks best for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Tip: white tends to look harsh in headshot photos, so most people should avoid it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Don\u2019t Choose a Low-Cut Shirt<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Wearing a low-cut shirt in your headshot will make you look less professional. Be sure to choose a shirt that provides enough coverage and won\u2019t draw extra attention to your cleavage. If most of the shirts you wear are low-cut, you can always wear a cami cover underneath your top for the headshot pictures.<\/p>\n\n\n

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    Make Sure You\u2019re Covering Any Straps <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    If you opt for a sleveless dress or top, keep bra straps concealed and tucked in before you say cheese! It\u2019s a good idea to try your outfit on before the day of the photoshoot to ensure that it fits comfortably and to ensure no bra straps are showing. Make sure to do a double-check before you\u2019re facing the camera, smiling, and having your photos taken.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Consider Wearing Minimalist Jewelry<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Looking professional in your headshot doesn\u2019t mean you can\u2019t wear jewelry. However, it\u2019s best to avoid those bulky, colorful pieces. Rather than wearing something that could easily stick out and take away from your overall image, wear minimalist jewelry that will accentuate your natural beauty and pair well with the shirt you\u2019re wearing. A stylish dainty necklace can add a touch of elegance to your photos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    If Your Daily Look Includes Eyeglasses, Wear Them in Your Professional Headshot<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Your headshot should look like you, so wear your glasses! You can always take pictures with and without them and decide which you prefer after the photo shoot. Glasses can make you look smarter<\/a>, so give it a try and see which photos turn out best.<\/p>\n\n\n

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    Get Your Hair & Makeup Headshot Ready<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    The appearance of your hair and makeup are as important as the clothes you\u2019ll wear for your headshot. There\u2019re a few good ways to look headshot-ready in no time!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Take a Trip to the Salon<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Don\u2019t hesitate to make a trip to the salon to get your hair colored and cut by a professional. Do this at least 3-4 days before your shoot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    On the day of the shoot, have your hair styled by your stylist. When your hair looks good, you feel good, and you\u2019ll end up exuding confidence in your headshots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Use Styling Products<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    If you\u2019re not planning to go to the salon before the shoot, be sure to ask your hairstlylist for the best styling products to use in your hair. You don\u2019t want your hair to look out of place or frizzy, so be sure to use a serum that will keep those flyaways at bay!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Wear Your Favorite Hairstyle<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    The key to looking your best in headshots is to wear your hair in a hairstyle that makes you feel beautiful. It doesn\u2019t matter if you like to wear your hair in a bun, ponytail, or down. Don\u2019t be afraid to hide your beautiful natural curls, either. But, of course, you still need to keep it professional, so avoid anything sloppy or trendy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Take Personal Grooming Seriously<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    To avoid irritated skin on your face, be sure to do any waxing, plucking, or shaving two days before your big shoot. If you plan to use a facemask or do any kind of light exfoliating, do that at least one day before.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Keep in mind, your hands could make an appearance in your headshot, so get a manicure!<\/p>\n\n\n

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    Keep Makeup Natural<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    You want you look like you, but on your best day! A makeup professional can ensure you look great, but if you don\u2019t have the time or budget for that, you can do your usual makeup routine with a few minor modifications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n