Guide to Executive & CEO Headshots

Executive and CEO headshots are specialized portrait photos designed to convey leadership, confidence, and professionalism. Unlike standard professional headshots, these are tailored to showcase the unique qualities that set executives and CEOs apart. These headshots are often used in annual reports, investor relations materials, keynote presentations, and on corporate websites.

In the upper echelons of business, the stakes are high, and your headshot needs to reflect that. An executive headshot serves as a visual representation of your brand and can significantly influence how you are perceived by stakeholders, investors, and employees. A high-quality, well-composed headshot can instill confidence and trust, which are invaluable in leadership roles.

When it comes to attire, think about the message you want to convey. A well-tailored suit is often the go-to choice, but depending on your industry and company culture, you may opt for something less formal yet still polished. The trick is finding a balance between inward and outward appearance to make sure you’re conveying the right message to both employees and external stakeholders.

Read more: What to Wear for Corporate Headshots

The pose for an executive headshot should exude confidence and approachability. Stand or sit up straight, keep your shoulders relaxed, and maintain eye contact with the camera. A slight smile or a serious expression both work, depending on the image you wish to project. Consider the use cases as well, as your website and annual report may have a very different look, so sometimes capturing multiple poses can provide flexibility depending on the situation.

Read more: The Best Corporate Headshot Poses

A neutral or muted background usually works best for executive headshots, as it keeps the focus on you. However, some choose to have their office or corporate setting as a backdrop to add context and depth to the image. You can also use a platform like Snapbar Studio to remove backgrounds and replace them with the image or scene of your choice.

Prior to the shoot, consult with your PR team, comms department, or trusted advisors about the look and feel you're aiming for. Make sure you're well-groomed and well-rested. Consider hiring a professional makeup artist and hairstylist to ensure you look your best, and most importantly, relax to capture your genuine self and expression.

While having a skilled or professional photographer to capture your headshot is ideal, you can also capture a decent headshot using a high-quality camera and good lighting. Lighting is the most important - particularly if you use a platform to automatically remove backgrounds, edit, and enhance your photo.

Read more: How to Take a Headshot at Home

The investment in an executive headshot can vary, but given its importance, it's not an area to skimp on. You also don’t have to break the bank! High-end photographers may charge hundreds of dollars, but for certain use cases in high profile scenarios, the return on investment can be substantial. For most use cases, however, a quality photo edited to incorporate your company branding and guidelines will work great, and can be done relatively cheaply. Particularly when done as part of a company-wide initiative.