Capturing the Perfect Headshot: Your Ultimate Guide

In today’s digital age, a professional headshot is an essential tool for making a lasting impression. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur, a seasoned professional, or an aspiring actor, your headshot is often the first thing people see. It’s your virtual handshake, your digital business card. Ensuring that you know what to expect will put you at ease when you show up to the studio - here’s a few common questions to help you get started.

“Do you smile in a headshot?”

The age-old question: to smile or not to smile? The answer depends on your industry and personal brand. A genuine smile can convey warmth and approachability, perfect for professionals in fields such as real estate, therapists or customer facing positions. However, if you’re in a more serious profession such as law or finance, a neutral expression might be more appropriate. Ultimately, choose a facial expression that reflects your personality and the image you want to project. If you work with a company, I will reference their images to make sure I know how to direct you towards what they’re looking for.

“What Color should I wear for a headshot?”

When selecting clothing for your headshot, opt for solid colors that complement your skin tone and eye color. Avoid busy patterns or flashy prints that can distract from your face. Classic hues like navy, gray, and burgundy are timeless choices that exude professionalism. Additionally, we can pair your outfit with a suitable backdrop —choosing colors that contrast to ensure you stand out. Most of the time companies are matching the background (often white or grey) across all of their images. Dark clothing is an especially great and easy choice for these.

“Is it okay to wear black for a headshot?”

While black is a versatile and universally flattering color, it can sometimes appear too harsh in a headshot, especially against a dark background. If you decide to wear black, layer it with a contrasting jacket or accessories to add depth and visual interest. Alternatively, opt for softer shades like charcoal or slate gray for a more flattering look.

“What necklines are best for headshots?”

The neckline of your clothing can significantly impact the overall composition of your headshot. For a timeless and elegant look, choose necklines that frame your face without overwhelming it. V-necks and scoop necks are universally flattering options that elongate the neck and draw attention to your features. Avoid high necklines or turtlenecks, as they can appear too restrictive and detract from your facial expression. For anyone wishing to wear a collared shirt and tie, this is an easy and flattering professional look.

“Should you wear jewelry in a headshot?”

Less is more when it comes to jewelry in a headshot. Opt for simple, understated pieces that complement your attire rather than overpowering it. A delicate necklace or stud earrings can add a touch of sophistication without stealing the spotlight. Avoid chunky or distracting jewelry that may divert attention away from your face.

“Should you show teeth in a headshot?”

The decision to show teeth in your headshot ultimately comes down to personal preference and the image you want to convey. A natural, confident smile can be incredibly inviting and engaging, but if you’re self-conscious about your teeth or prefer a more serious look, a closed-mouth smile or neutral expression can be equally effective. We can experiment with different poses and expressions to find what feels most authentic to you.

I will be there in the studio to help you make any choices about clothing or accessories, so feel free to bring some options and we can decide together!

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