I recommend that every business professional update their headshot every two years, especially if you are in a profession where your image is integrated with your branding. If people need to recognize you, then having an updated portrait and headshot is a must.
A little background information
Context – Where will your image be seen?
- Wall Portraits–Will your image hang on a wall? In what setting? A black, charcoal, or fashion gray background can add a layer of drama and complexity to your portrait. A dark background helps to define you from whatever else is on the wall.
- Media Publications–whether it’s for web or print; a white background is the most versatile. A white background creates a distraction free scene that puts all the attention on you, and it does not fight with the other design elements of the publication. Everyone should have a headshot with a white background.
- Natural Backgrounds–a brick wall, grasses, bushes or trees can add another layer of interest to your portrait or headshot. Complex backgrounds can distract from the most important thing – you, so make sure the photographer puts enough distance between you and the environment so that the background is out of focus.
- Environmental Portraits–tell a bit more about yourself and your profession. Shooting a portrait in your place of work, such as a classroom if you are a professor, or with a prop such as an instrument if you are a musician, behind the wheel of a race car if you are a driver, etc. In these instances, the background helps to define your branding and tell your story.
Shedding a little light on the subject
Photography is all about light and the lighting used to take your portrait will have a big impact on the final results. There are many options here. When looking to hire a photographer, pay attention to their lighting style preferences. Before the photo shoot, discuss with your photographer which style of lighting will best deliver your message.
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- Studio Lighting: Some photographers use lighting commonly used in fashion photography, which minimizes the dimensions of the face and highlights the features.
- Rembrandt Lighting: Others prefer a dramatic Rembrandt style lighting with a low key and high contrast set up.
- Natural Lighting: Some photographers prefer soft, natural lighting.
The lighting style used should suit you best and be in line with your goals. Look carefully at the photographer’s portfolio and decide if the look and feel of their work is in harmony with you.
Here are some photos of me – using varying backgrounds, lighting styles, and different photographers
From left to right: Studio Fashion Style Lighting, photographer Jovanni Casus, Soft Studio Lighting, photographer Bob Doerr, Natural Outdoor Lighting, photographer Wendy Baker, Rembrandt Lighting, photographer Abhishikhaa Bhadouriya.
A touchy subject
Any competent photographer will do some photo editing to make your portrait look it’s best, but don’t rely on Photoshop to make your portrait session a success. Here are some tips for making your photo shoot a great experience from start to finish:
- Prepare the days and weeks before. Know what you are going to wear and have it laid out including the tops, bottoms, jackets, accessories and shoes–all clean and no wrinkles.
- If you do not know what to wear get advice. Professionals photographers have useful portrait session guidelines to give to their clients. Hire an image consultant to help you set your goals and look your best! It is after all, what we are here to do!
- Many photographers like to shoot in the morning when you are well-rested.
The must do list:
- Get your colors right and bring at least three different outfits to the shoot.
- Get your hair cut at least two weeks before your photo session (not the day before!)
- Get a professional blow dry or styling the day of the photo shoot.
- Get your makeup done by a professional make-up artist. No matter how good you are at putting on your own makeup, the pros know how to make you look your best in front of a camera. It is ideal if the photographer has a make-up artist on site the day of the shoot.
Things to avoid:
- Take good care of yourself the day before a shoot. Poor sleep and dehydration are the nemeses of a portrait session.
Having a good head shot is expensive on the one hand, but priceless on another. Invest the time and money to do it right. It will pay off with more business and your future clients will look at you as more of an expert because you did your photo right.