Headshot Guide: Tips and Prep
Let’s get down to it – these days everybody needs a good headshot. Whether you’re an actor / model, just starting in the business world, an entrepreneur, or a CEO, a headshot is your brand. It’s the first thing that people see when they look you up online. It’s your calling card, and your opportunity to make an impactful first impression.
If you’re like most people, the thought of getting your headshot done can be daunting. You probably have a lot of questions like:
What can I expect?
What do I wear?
What do I do?
What happens afterwards?
Well, the good news is, that’s what we’re here for, and you’re in good hands. Whether this is your first time in front of a camera, or you’re a seasoned veteran we take the worry out of Headshot Photography, and let you shine (you’ll probably even enjoy yourself)!
What can I expect?
The person in the photo needs to be the same person walking in the room
This is the golden rule of headshots! We want to fast-track trust with potential clients and partners, so who are they going to see on any given day? A teacher of mine once said your Headshot should look like you on a good day – but not on your best day. Make sure it’s a look that you can reasonably recreate (sometimes with short notice if you’re auditioning or have a last minute meeting).
When you arrive, we’ll chat about what you are looking to get out of your Headshot Session (and perhaps what you are looking to avoid). We’ll talk about how you’re going to use the images. Are they for social media (eg LinkedIn), website, promotional materials, or print use? Are you an Entrepreneur, Actor or Model? Do you want a business or corporate feel, or something more casual? Remember, professional doesn’t need to mean formal.
Basically, what’s your brand? When someone looks at your Headshot, what do you want them to know right away?
Before the Session
Do some research. Seriously
You want to make sure that your photographer is the right fit for you. Make sure you look at their work, and pick someone whose work speaks to you. The more jazzed you are about the photographer you’re working with, the better your images will come out!
Once you’ve decided and booked your session…
Make sure you’re well rested, hydrated, and have had something to eat that day. Try not to schedule something immediately before or after your Headshot Session, so you’re not feeling stressed about time. The studio is well stocked with snacks and drinks, but feel free to bring your favourite treat. If you have some music that you’d like to have play, we’ll get that on for you!
What do I wear?
Your outfit should be true to your brand, fit your personality, and make you feel confident!
Bring lots of options. Make sure everything is cleaned, pressed, and fits well. I’d rather have a bunch of clothes hanging on the rack than regretting not bringing a certain shirt. As a general rule, I try to avoid very busy patterns, as they can be distracting. Same goes for jewellery and accessories – unless they’re integral to your brand. If you’re going to wear any, keep them small. We want the attention on you, not what you’re wearing. A quick note on very fine pinstripes/polkadots/houndstooth – they can create a ‘shimmer’ effect on camera (called moire), so perhaps consider different options
Solid colours are always a good call. Choose colours that work well with your skin tone and hair colour, and flatter your figure. Solid black or white outfits can sometimes wash out out, but it’s always good to have them included in your options. Remember that your Headshot is just that – head and shoulders, but bring a couple pant and shoe options anyway to have options for Portraits. If you usually wear high heels, you’ll stand differently with them on than in flats, for example. A lint roller is always a good thing to pack in your bag.
A collared shirt/blouse is always classic – clothing that has some form to it reads really well on camera. V-neck t-shirts are great if they’re fitted, and they layer well under a sweater. A dress with a simple pattern or solid colour is always a good option to bring, as are slacks and jeans (for a more casual look). If you’re going for a business or corporate look, a jacket & tie / suit is strongly recommended. Longer sleeves tend to work better than tank-tops, and have a more professional look to them. Try to avoid turtle necks and cowl neck tops. If you usually wear glasses, wear them in your photos.
Hair & Makeup
If you’ve hired a makeup artist with us (and if you’re able to, it’s always recommended), then you can relax and we’ll have you come in with plenty of time to get ready. They’ll be there to see the makeup on camera, and adjust as needed. If you’d like them there for the duration of the shoot for touch ups and any changes, that can be arranged in advance.
In general, a clean & natural look is always favoured especially around the eyes! If you’re doing your own makeup, bring some with you for touchups and changes. If you have long hair, we’ll start with your hair down, and we can try different looks as we go.
If you’re going to cut your hair, do so a few days before your Headshot Session, so as not to have that ‘newly cut’ look. Same goes for dyeing your hair – let it settle for a bit first. Shaving, however, should be done right before the shoot, so we don’t have to battle ‘5 o’clock shadow’ in the editing process (make sure you’ve used aftershave / cooling gel so there’s no skin irritation).
Make sure to moisturize so your skin looks healthy. A bit of foundation and a good translucent (matte) powder is a good investment for everyone. It’s also a good idea to bring a brush or a comb. I keep the studio stocked with product, but if there’s something you love that you know works well for you, bring it!
What do I do?
Relax. Have fun. Be yourself. And don’t forget to breathe. Don’t worry about posing – just be present, and be open to taking direction. Remember, this is all about you and showcasing your personality in a photograph, so don’t worry about ‘getting it right’. Some direction may seem odd, or sound funny, but I promise that it works. The photos will look awesome!
After the session
We’ll sit down, have a coffee/beverage and go through the photos. I shoot tethered, meaning you’ll have had the chance to see your photos throughout the session. At this point, we’ll make sure we haven’t missed anything, or decide if anything needs to be re-shot. We’ll choose your favourites and make sure you have photos you absolutely love! You’ll approve your final photo selections before you leave, so there are no surprises.
In the editing, blemishes will be removed, flyaways will be tamed (within reason) and skin tone will be smoothed out. I will not change the shape of your body, face, eyes, lips, and such – we’re presenting you as the amazing person you are. We’ve just spent a great Session together, creating fantastic images that you’ll be proud to show off!
The final edits will be sent to you in a few days to a week. If anything still needs to be corrected, one pass of simple retouching is fine. If you’ve ordered any prints, you’ll be notified as soon as they’re in.
*New* Background Colour Reference Charts
There are lots of options when it comes to backgrounds for your headshot. Grey is classic and is one of my go-to’s, but don’t shy away from colours! The chart below will give you a sense of what we’ve got. Don’t worry if this looks overwhelming – I make a lot of suggestions during the session based on the wardrobe options you bring (so bring lots!), brand colours, website colours, etc. You may be pleasantly surprised with what you end up loving!
