Headshot is distinguished by its specific framing and purpose. Unlike traditional portraiture, it focuses on the best possible representation of the professional
It is characterised by neutral backgrounds, appropriate lighting to emphasise facial features and subdued styling to suit the industry.
Headshot Applications
Headshots are primarily used in a professional context. They are used in:
- Business profiles on LinkedIn and other platforms
- Corporate materials and “About Us” pages
- Business cards and promotional materials
- Bio of speakers at conferences
- Acting and modelling portfolios
Elements of a Good Headshot
Technical Aspects
A professional headshot is characterised by high quality technical execution. The key elements are sharp eyes, proper exposure and careful framing. Lighting should be soft and even, emphasising the natural look of the subject.
Styling and Preparation
For a business headshot, attire should be formal or semi-formal, appropriate to the industry. Make-up should be natural and hairstyle should be neat and professional. It is important that the styling is timeless and not subject to rapidly changing trends.
The Headshot Process
A professional headshot session usually lasts between 30 minutes and an hour. The photographer begins with a brief conversation with the client to learn about their needs and industry. He then takes a series of photos in different poses and facial expressions, allowing the client to get used to the camera.
Tips for the Model
It is a good idea to prepare properly for a headshot session:
- Get enough sleep and keep your skin hydrated
- Choose an appropriate outfit that fits the industry
- Avoid experimenting with hair or make-up just before the shoot
- Practice a natural smile in front of the mirror
- Bring a few variants of clothes to choose from
Industry Differences
Headshots can vary according to industry and purpose. Lawyers and financiers tend to opt for very formal headshots, while creatives and artists can afford a more casual style. It is crucial that the photo fits the professional context.
Cost and Organisation of the Shoot
Prices for professional headshot sessions vary. A basic session can cost between £200 and £500, while more elaborate packages, including various photo variations and advanced post-production, can run to several thousand.
Use in Social Media
Headshots are currently particularly important in the context of social media. A professional profile picture can significantly influence first impressions and online credibility. It is worth taking care of the right formats and framing for the various platforms:
- LinkedIn requires a more formal approach
- Facebook can be a little more casual
- Twitter and Instagram accept more creative shots
- Corporate websites often require a consistent style for the whole team
Trends in Headshot Photography
There is currently a trend towards more natural and authentic headshots. There is a move away from over-retouched photos to more realistic shots that better reflect the personality of the person being photographed.
Post-Production and Retouching
For headshots, retouching should be subtle and naturalistic. It mainly focuses on:
- Skin alignment and texture
- Removal of temporary imperfections
- Light correction
- Adjustment of colours
- Sharpening of key elements
The Most Common Mistakes in Headshots
When creating headshots, there are a few basic mistakes to avoid:
- Too much retouching
- Inappropriate clothing
- Complicated background
- Inappropriate framing
- Artificial poses and forced smiles
The Most Popular Questions
What are the rules for a good headshot?
A good headshot should be well-lit, with the face clearly visible and eyes in sharp focus. The background should be simple and non-distracting, clothing should be professional, and the expression should appear natural and engaging.
What makes a perfect headshot?
A perfect headshot captures genuine expression, has proper lighting that flatters the face, shows clear eyes, and uses appropriate composition. The image should be high resolution, professionally retouched, and effectively represent the person’s brand or personality.
Can I smile in a headshot?
Yes, smiling in a headshot is often encouraged, especially for business or acting headshots that need to convey approachability. The key is ensuring the smile appears natural and matches your professional image. Both smiling and serious expressions can work depending on your industry and intended use.
Is a selfie OK for a headshot?
No, a selfie is generally not acceptable as a professional headshot. Professional headshots require proper lighting, high-quality cameras, correct angles, and appropriate backgrounds that can’t be achieved with a smartphone camera.
Is it OK to fake a smile?
While natural smiles are always best for headshots, a well-practiced ‘professional smile’ can work if it appears genuine. The key is to think happy thoughts and let the smile reach your eyes to avoid looking forced or artificial.
Can you tell a real smile?
Yes, genuine smiles (known as Duchenne smiles) involve both the mouth and eyes, creating crow’s feet wrinkles around the eyes. A fake smile typically only engages mouth muscles and can appear stiff or unnatural in photos.
How should you pose for a headshot?
For a professional headshot, keep your chin slightly down and turned about 10 degrees from the camera. Maintain good posture, relax your shoulders, and position yourself to capture your best angle. Your eyes should look directly into the camera.
What should you avoid in a headshot?
Avoid busy backgrounds, distracting jewelry, trendy clothing, harsh lighting, and extreme angles. Don’t over-edit the photo, wear heavy makeup, or use outdated photos. Steer clear of overly casual poses or exaggerated expressions.
What color is best for headshots?
Solid, muted colors work best for headshots. Navy blue, deep green, burgundy, and gray are excellent choices. Avoid bright colors, busy patterns, and pure white or black, as they can be distracting or affect the camera’s exposure.
