How to Make Sure You Are Happy with Your Professional Headshots
Finding the right photographer and taking a session of professional headshots is a lot of effort—you will want all that work to result in pictures you love. When you end up not liking your photos, it usually comes down to communication. If your photographer has to guess at what you want, then takes pictures that aren’t to your style, you both may end up disappointed and frustrated. Here are some ways to make sure you are happy with your headshots.
Tell Your Photographer the Purpose of the Professional Headshots
Are you refreshing your resume? Are you updating a company headshot? Are you about to go on a public speaking tour and need a publicity professional portrait? Telling your photographer why you need the photos will help them determine the correct look for your session.
Research Your Style
If you have never done a headshot session before, or have not liked your previous headshots, it will be worthwhile to look online for headshot examples you do like. Do they have darker backgrounds, medium light or dramatic light, or outside shots? When you can communicate specifics of your preferences to your photographer, they can choose backdrops and lighting that you find flattering. Bring along professional headshot examples of what you like to show your photographer, as well as the ones you didn’t like, so it won’t be repeated.
Research Your Photographer
Before scheduling a session with a photographer, visit their website or their portfolio to see the kind of work they do. This gives you a preview of what your headshots might turn out to be. Choose the photographer who’s style you already like.
Spend Time Preparing
Choose clothes that look the best on you and are relatively comfortable to reduce nervousness and boost your confidence. Bring along several outfits—it can be hard to see which outfit will look great on camera just by looking in the mirror. It’s best to have several options. If you aren’t confident about doing your own hair or makeup, hiring a hairdresser or stylist can be a worthwhile investment.
Knowing what you want and communicating those expectations up front will minimize the chances of frustration and dissatisfaction with your photos. When your photographer understands what your professional headshots are for, and the specific look you want, the end result will better represent what you are picturing in your head.
If you are looking for marketing images, professional headshots or portraits that stand out and express you, your brand or business, you can talk to me here.
