Five Simple Tips for a Successful Headshot Session

Are you seeking to enhance your professional online image with fresh headshots or personal branding photos?

Whether you are starting a new gig, updating up your LinkedIn, or just in need of new marketing content, Jennifer has you covered.

She photographs hundreds of branding sessions each year, and nearly 95% of people say they don't like having their photo taken. So here are five tips to ensure the experience is as stress free as possible.

1) Know you are not alone in disliking having your photo taken.

It sounds silly, but just knowing that the majority of people also dislike having their photo taken makes us feel a little more normal about the whole thing. Jen included!

And having been on the receiving end of standing in front a silent photographer who gave very little feedback during the photoshoot, Jen strives to deliver the exact opposite experience. Her goal is to put you at ease, provide posing guidance in real time and constantly give you conversational, easy feedback during the shoot.

2) Read through the Clothing & Styling Suggestions before your shoot

Jen provides many styling, grooming and clothing suggestions to help you easily prepare for your shoot which you can find here.

If you still are not sure of what colors, patterns or textures may photograph best with your uniqueness, Jen is happy to help provide suggestions. Just bring options with you.

The other suggestion with clothing is to try on what you plan to wear before just to make sure you like how it lays on your frame and moves with some comfort. See what happens in the mirror when you cross your arms or put your hand on your hip, or angle sideways.

Jen will pay attention to these things at the shoot, but the more you practice or judge for yourself, the better.

3) Communicate your wishes with your photographer.

Here's the thing: we are ALL our own worst critic, and your photographer wont be able to read your mind about things you really don't like.

It's one thing to say "make me look good" but if you have specific things you want to minimize (or play up because you like other features), please do share your concerns and/or goals for the session. This can happen at the beginning of the shoot, or in your communication with your photographer prior to the session.

>> Tip: if you don't like your arms in most photos, consider wearing long sleeves or a blazer/jean jacket etc to minimize that part. If you like your eyes and consider them one of your best features, wear a color that highlights or complements them for that extra pop!

4) Think about the vibe or energy you want to convey with the photos, and bring options or props to help with your overall goals. (Branding photos)

This is especially important if you are starting a new business where you are the brand

• Life or Business coach? You likely want to come across as friendly and approachable so people become more engaged with you and your website, like Indu here

• Doctor or Medical Professional - You may want to project subject matter competency or authority - that clients trust you know your stuff. Research has shown people associate power & intelligence with the the white coat so you may want to bring it for a few photos

• Financial planner - Perhaps consider a laptop, calculator, etc. You can incorporate these things into your shoot to give you a wider range of content. (We'll try to make it look lifestyle and editorial in nature; not weird, cheesy or stuffy.)

• Health coach - consider one outfit in your workout gear and one in street clothes & perhaps some health related products, books you recommend, etc

• Author - definitely bring your book if you have it ready :-)

• Realtor - you can incorporate an Open House sign, front door keys or other things to give you some additional social medial or website content. See examples here.

• Attorney or CPA - you many want a suit jacket or very professional, more serious image.
  

5) Know that lighting is the one of the most important aspects to a great photo, or at least a flattering one.

Studio lighting is quite different than outdoor lighting, and since Jennifer primarily shoots in natural light, she recommends a short list of great spots that she knows well, knows where the nooks and crannies are for great backdrops and lighting.

If you prefer the studio look, or need it for your company site, Jennifer can rent a studio or provide some recommendations for others in the area.

If you have other spots in mind you would like to do the session, Jennifer can help provide tips and suggestions for what time of day may work best or what to look for in scouting for spots. Below are two spots Jennifer uses frequently, because they consistently provide great results for beautiful head shots.

Photo Examples & Inspiration

Photos taken in and around Old Town Scottsdale

Photos taken around DC Ranch

Ready to Book?

Let's capture some fresh & beautiful new portraits that truly represent you! Book here and let me know the date and time slot you prefer, package option and anything else you want to share and I'll shoot over an online booking agreement for you!

(If these dates dont work, please inquire about future dates. I typically schedule sessions 3-4x per month.)