Nobody can really afford to be without a great headshot – not if they want to attract new clients and make a good first impression anyway.

Whether you’re still considering a professional photo session, or you’ve already booked one, there are a few things to keep in mind when planning your headshots.

This guide will ensure you’re prepared and get the best possible results.

Your Mindset

Before you step into a professional headshot session, you need to adjust your mindset – how you’re feeling shines through in your photos. It’s important to think about how you want to feel during your session, not what you want people to see.

So, how do you adjust your mindset for a photo session? Don’t take it so seriously and most importantly, do something that makes you feel good. Spend time meditating prior to your session or turn on your favorite tunes and get moving. There are no rules, just do what makes you feel good. When your head is in the right space, your personal power and joy will shine through in your photos.

Your Outfit

Most headshots are cropped quite tightly, so what you wear is not a make or break. However, there are still a few things to keep in mind. Unless it fits in with your brand, avoid wearing too much black. Rather look at some other colors that look good on you and choose an outfit, especially a shirt or blouse, that matches your brand. 

It’s also best to opt for a V-neck, especially if you have a large chest. A top that sits too close around your neck can emphasise your chest. Have a broad upper body? Opt for a blazer to break up your body. Just be sure to create a V-shape by buttoning up your jacket. 

If you’re planning to wear accessories, don’t wear anything too bold or shiny – the point is to keep the focus on you, not create a distraction. 

Your Makeup & Hair

Makeup is a must before your headshot session, even if you don’t usually wear much or any at all. The biggest priority is to even out your skin tone and remove shine, which can be done with BB cream and a translucent powder. If you’re a woman, adding some color to your cheeks and lift to your lashes is highly recommended. Rather stay away from overly bright colors to avoid distractions. 

In terms of your hairstyle, choose something that suits your position, age, and profession. It’s highly recommended that you have your hair and makeup done by a professional if you want the best results. 

Your Background

Whether you schedule your shoot in a studio or at a location of your choosing, make sure that your background isn’t a major distraction. It’s best to avoid vertical lines, loud colors, white brick walls, and elaborate street art. However, it’s important to keep your brand in mind – you do want to tell a story after all.

Your Body Language

People don’t often consider how their body language changes their story. Body language refers to the tilt of your head, your gaze and facial expressions, and the position of your shoulders. Unless you really want to send an intentional message, it’s important to pay attention to your body language in your headshots. Squaring your shoulders and looking too serious can make you look defensive more than anything else. Another example is tilting your head too much, this could make you come across as childish. 

This might seem like a lot to remember but by being aware of these aspects, preparing for your headshot session, and allowing your photographer to guide you, you can look forward to headshots you can be proud of. 

Ready to book a great headshot?

Check out our headshots portfolio and grab our Headshots Guide! It’s complete with examples, ideas, mistakes to avoid, a prep checklist, and the price of headshots with Willie & Kim Photography!