Guide to Professional Headshots

Professional headshots are portrait photos typically used for business purposes. They are often featured on websites, internal communication platforms, badges, press releases, publications, and social media profiles. These photos focus primarily on the subject's face, aiming to capture their personality and professionalism. Professional headshots are commonly used by a diverse range of professionals, from actors to business executives to academics.

First impressions matter, and in today's digital world, they often happen online. A professional headshot is crucial for making a positive first impression. Whether you're applying for a job, pitching to a potential client, or introducing yourself to your team, a high-quality headshot can present you in the best light.

When it comes to dressing for your headshot, consider your industry and the image you want to project. For more conservative fields, a suit and tie or equivalent attire may be appropriate and in other fields that may be entirely overdressed. If you're unsure, take a look at influential individuals in your industry on LinkedIn for inspiration. Remember, you're dressing for the job you want, not the job you have.

Read more: What to Wear for Professional Headshots

Don't worry too much about striking the perfect pose. The key is to look natural and professional. A good tip is to slightly angle your body, turn your head towards the camera, and always remember to smile. It's all about showcasing your genuine personality so let that shine through!

Read more: The Best Professional Headshot Poses

Choosing the right background for your headshot is important because you don’t want it to distract from your face and personality. Whether you prefer a neutral backdrop or something more vibrant, ensure it complements (not clashes with) your outfit and fits the image you want to project. You can also utilize automatic background removal and then choose your own using an automated platform or photo editing tools.

To prepare for your headshot, make sure you're well-rested and your outfit fits properly. Take a look at some of your favorite photos of yourself to identify angles and expressions you like. You also want to choose a location that has good diffused lighting like a window, and the background you want if you aren’t replacing it with a custom one. Brush your hair and teeth and get into that aspirational mindset!

A high end camera and ring-light can help capture a really high quality headshot, but you can also do a lot with your modern smartphone and decent ambient lighting. It’s generally easiest and going to come across the most natural if you can have someone else take your photo. Also your forward facing camera on your phone is generally much better than the selfie-camera. Take a couple practice shots to see how the lighting and contrast work out in the spot you’ve chosen.

Read more: How to Take a Professional Headshot at Home

The cost of professional headshots can vary widely from hundreds of dollars with a professional photo shoot, to free if you do it yourself. They definitely don't have to break the bank, but they are well worth the investment, at least in time, to represent your professional persona as well as possible. If you need professional headshots for multiple people, you’ll be best served by using an automated platform to streamline editing and outputs. Check out the solutions we offer below!