Headshot Portrait? Here Are Some Tips on Making Yours a Good One

With the popularity of online media, the need for a great headshot is important.  Headshots are used for LinkedIn, business websites, organizations such as professional, trade, social, religious and non-profit, press releases, Facebook, Match.com and many others.  Your posted image is the first impression a viewer has of you, and your opportunity to make it a good one.  Here are some tips on making it count:

• Determine where your headshot will be appear.  Different looks may be effective for each use, such as LinkedIn vs. Facebook.  This may also affect the way the image is cropped as well as digital file size required for a given website.

• Decide on the "look" that works best.  In business, although some occupations and industries still favor a coat and tie for men and a business suit for women, the look in most cases is business casual.  This means sport coat for men, and jacket for women.  Solid colors work best.  Just a shirt or blouse can look too casual.  If your job is performed outdoors or in a unique setting, (e.g. tradesman, lab worker), that may call for a uniform or clothing specific to that job. 

• Consider what background will compliment your image as well as the website in which it will appear. Because a headshot is tightly cropped, generally a simple neutral colored or white background will be most attractive and draw attention to the face.  An out of focus background can sometimes be an option.

• Lighting should be fairly even for a business look.  More dramatic lighting may be better for an image that portrays an artistic look complimenting your profession or for social media.

• For most uses, your expression should indicate that you are sincere, approachable, and positive. A natural looking smile serves you well.

• Retouching should be tastefully done on your final image.  Digital photography captures every detail in stunning clarity and portraits need to be softened.  The blemish that popped up overnight or the razor nick from this morning can be retouched out.  It is important that it not be overdone to the point where when you appear for an interview or meeting, the viewer does not recognize you from your photograph.  

• Most professional photographers will offer you a couple of clothing choices, and will make your images available on a computer for your viewing and selection on the spot.  This will allow for processing and retouching to be done promptly and delivery of your final images shortly thereafter.  

• Be sure to communicate with your photographer any concerns you have about your physical appearance as they are skilled with posing and lighting techniques that can enhance your look and minimize areas where you may be self-conscious.  

A professional photographer can provide portraits that fill your needs.  He/she will work with you to ensure that you look your absolute best to make that all important great first impression.  

Enjoy the day,

George