Preparing for your Headshot Session

Right up there with eating ice cream, getting your headshot taken is on the list of everyone’s favorite thing to do. I’m kidding, of course. And, you know what? I totally get it! Getting photographed solo is not something you do everyday. But, with a little preparation, your headshot session will be a breeze. 

Whether you are in front of my camera for a quick corporate headshot or we have longer session planned, here are my top tips to acing your headshot session

GET YOURSELF LOOKING GOOOOOOD

Taking a little time to prepare yourself for your headshot session will help you feel more confident even before you step into the studio door.

The wardrobe is probably the most important part of this. Click here to check out my blog post about what to wear to your headshot session.

In addition, getting a haircut one week prior to your session will ensure your hair will have a natural, clean look (and you’ll have plenty of time to fix it if you don’t love it).

Ladies, if budget allows and you’re feeling fancy, consider getting your hair and makeup done the day of your session. Just make sure you love your look before your leave the salon chair. 

Sleep is your friend. I don’t know about you, but after a bad night’s sleep, I look and feel lousy. To combat this, go to bed early the night before your session. This will not only make you look well-rested, but will help with any extra anxiety you have.

Also, everyone… drink water. Seriously. Go heavy on the water consumption 2-3 days leading up to your session. Hydrated skin is always good look.

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT (EVEN IF IT FEELS A LITTLE CHEESY)

Stay with me here, because this tip is actually pretty important: Practice posing in the mirror. Yah. I know. It’s not something you want your partner to catch you doing, but it can make all the difference.

The goal of a headshot, whether you’re a corporate executive or a freelance artist, is to connect with your customers in a natural and meaningful way. Stiff body language and a tense smile will not help in this effort. By taking a few moments to understand what you look like in a mirror will help you feel more confident when getting photographed. Try practicing a range of smiles, move your body around and figure out your best angles.

Need extra help? Click here to check out this great video by Detroit-based photographer Scott Lawrence.

BODY LANGUAGE IS EVERYTHING

Good posture = Confidence. It’s as simple as that. Make sure your back is straight but not rigid and stiff. I often like to think of the grace of a ballet dancer. Confident yet warm.

In addition, it’s best to be open with your body language and try not to close yourself off too much. I often find that a company’s values are key to guiding body language for headshots and we may discuss how we can portray those values by using different posing techniques.

FRIEND NOT FOE

If you have trouble getting comfortable in front of a lens (or even the mirror while you’re practicing), try to envision the camera as a person you’d like to get to know. Or, even better, try to think of someone who makes you laugh!

Potential customers often will view your headshot before they meet you so it’s important to have your headshot represent your best version. The camera is not a foe but simply a helpful tool. Let it capture your genuine nature and don’t be afraid to laugh a little.

TRUST THE PROCESS

Yes, getting photographed can sometimes feel weird. But, do your best to trust the process and your photographer. It’s our job to make you look your very best.

There will be moments where I try to make you laugh, or move your chin, adjust my lights or make you “shake it out”. This is all part of the process. It’s always my goal to get a range of great faces from you to choose from, so don’t be afraid to let loose and trust the process.

I’M HERE FOR YOU

Still feel a little uneasy about your headshot session? It’s totally okay! Feel free to address any your concerns or insecurities with me during your session or reach out before your scheduled time by email. Together, we’ll rock your headshot session and make an image you’ll be itching to use for everything!

Do you still need to schedule your headshot? Learn more about my headshot work or contact me to schedule your session!