Corporate Headshots: How to Prepare for Them
Corporate headshots are a powerful tool for professional branding that can significantly influence how you are perceived in the business world. A high-quality corporate headshot serves as the face of your professional persona across various platforms, including company websites, business networks like LinkedIn, and even at conferences and printed materials.
From over 15 years of experience being in the photography business, we’ve observed how a well-executed headshot can open doors for professionals.
This blog guides you on how to prepare for corporate headshots to increase the chances of winning high standard jobs.
Table of Contents
Corporate Headshots: How to Prepare for Them
- What to Wear for Corporate Headshots
- How to Look Confident and Approachable
- Best Backdrops and Locations
- Pre-shoot Preparation for a Smooth Headshot Session
- Select and Utilize Your Headshots
- Conclusion
- FAQs
What to Wear for Corporate Headshots
The choice of attire for a corporate headshot photography is important as it reflects your professional approach and industry alignment. For business headshots, we always recommend attire that is classic and understated—think solid colors like navy, black, or gray. These colors flatter and avoid distracting from the most important part of the image: your face.
Moreover, selecting outfits that mirror the norms of your industry can communicate your understanding and respect for professional standards. For example, a lawyer or banker might opt for a dark suit to convey seriousness and formality, while a creative professional could choose something more relaxed yet polished, reflecting creative flair without sacrificing professionalism.
How to Look Confident and Approachable
The pose in a corporate headshot significantly influences professional perception. A well-chosen pose communicates confidence and approachability.
- Encourage a posture that balances confidence and calmness. We direct for great posture, with relaxed, and engaging body language.
- Body language is a key factor with headshot messaging. We work closely with clients to adjust details with head tilts, shoulder angles, and hand positions for a natural yet impactful look.
- The headshot mindset. We focus on creating a mindset that helps you to see the purpose of the headshot. It’s less about model-like features, and more about conveying a level of expertise in your field of work.
Best Backdrops and Locations
When preparing for your corporate headshot, choosing the right backdrop significantly influences the perception of your professional image. The backdrop should be subtle yet enhancing, never detracting from the focal point: you.
However, the choice between an in-studio or on-location shoot often depends on your industry and personal brand.
In-studio, indoor backdrops offer a controlled environment with consistent lighting, ideal for large groups of people who will need headshots throughout the year. Indoor backgrounds allow us to control the environment, and avoid wind, uncomfortable temperatures, and unflattering light.
On the other hand, outdoor shoots can reflect a more dynamic or creative personal brand, suitable for professionals in the arts or outdoor industries, like landscapers. For instance, a real estate agent might benefit from having their headshot taken at a notable property, enhancing the contextual relevance of the photo.
Pre-shoot Preparation for a Smooth Headshot Session
To ensure a seamless headshot session, preparation is key. Here’s a checklist to help you get ready:
- Grooming – If you need a haircut or touch-up, schedule it about a week before your session to allow your hair to settle naturally.
- Outfit Selection – Choose and try on your outfits. Opt for clothes that fit well and reflect your professional role. Ensure they are clean and pressed.
- Rest – Get a good night’s sleep to look rested and alert.
- Hydration – Drink plenty of water to ensure your skin looks its best, avoiding alcohol and excessive caffeine.
On the day of the shoot, it’s also important to consider your makeup and accessories. Makeup should be clean and enhance your features subtly. Men should ensure any facial hair is well-groomed or freshly shaved, while women should opt for natural tones in makeup, avoiding anything too bold or shiny. As for accessories, keep them minimal. A watch or simple earrings can complement without distracting.
Select and Utilize Your Headshots
After the camera has been packed away and the lights dimmed, one of the most important phases begins—selecting the best images from your session. It’s essential to choose photos that portray you in the best light and align with your professional objectives.
We recommend selecting a variety of shots that showcase different expressions and poses. This variety ensures you have a robust portfolio to choose from for different platforms and needs. When choosing, look for images where you appear both confident and accessible, ensuring the photo communicates your professional ethos effectively.
Once selected, using your headshots across various platforms can enhance your professional presence. For LinkedIn, choose a headshot that is both professional and approachable, aligning with the platform’s networking nature.
On your company website, use a headshot that fits the company’s branding and style, ideally something that underscores your professional role within the organization. Remember, consistency across all platforms strengthens your personal brand and aids in creating a cohesive professional image.
Open the opportunities
Preparing for a corporate headshot is important for enhancing your professional image and opening up career opportunities. Choosing the right attire, perfecting your pose, and selecting the appropriate backdrop are all steps that contribute to creating a powerful personal brand.
Remember, a well-crafted headshot is more than just a photo; it’s a key component of your professional identity.
FAQs
Can I bring props to my corporate headshot session?
While corporate headshots are typically more conservative, bringing a prop that represents your profession (like a notebook for a journalist) can be acceptable if it aligns with the image you wish to project.
How often should I update my corporate headshot?
It is advisable to update your corporate headshot every 3 years, or whenever there has been a significant change in your appearance, such as a new hairstyle or if you’ve started wearing glasses.
Is it better to smile with or without teeth in a corporate headshot?
Smiling with teeth can appear more friendly and approachable, while a closed-mouth smile can be perceived as more serious and professional.
What is the best time of day to schedule a corporate headshot session?
If the session is outdoors, early morning or late afternoon is ideal to take advantage of softer natural light. For indoor shoots, any time of day is generally fine as lighting can be controlled.
How long does a typical corporate headshot session last?
A typical corporate headshot session can last anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes per person. This can vary based on factors like outfit changes or specific requirements of the shoot.
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About Jackie Zoeller
Jackie, the fouder and creative director at Denver Headshot Co., brings over a decade of experience in professional photography to her role. Her extensive expertise, combined with a genuine passion for capturing the essence of her clients, has been instrumental in establishing Denver Headshot Co. as a leader in the field. Under her guidance, the company is renowned for its commitment to quality and authenticity, providing headshots that not only showcase the individuality of each client but also amplify their professional presence. Jackie’s experience, leadership, and artistic vision ensure that every client receives a personalized and empowering photography experience.
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