Insider Tips to Headshots that Instantly Boost Your Professional Image – Are you Ready?

How to Prepare for Your Corporate Headshot Session

Imagine you’re surrounded by potential clients, partners, and employers at a networking event. You’ve done your homework—your elevator pitch is polished, your handshake is firm, and your business cards are pristine. But before you’ve even uttered a word, someone pulls up your LinkedIn profile on their phone. At that moment, your headshot does all the talking. Is it saying what you want it to say?

A corporate headshot isn’t just a picture; it’s your billboard in the professional world. It’s your first impression in countless digital interactions, from LinkedIn to company websites and email exchanges. In today’s visually-driven society, that small square image can speak volumes about your professionalism, approachability, and brand.

So, how do you ensure your headshot works as hard as you do? How do you prepare for a session that will result in a photo that looks good and resonates with who you are and what you represent? That’s precisely what we’re going to explore. By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to step in front of the camera and capture a headshot that truly reflects your professional persona.

Understanding Your Brand

Think of your corporate headshot as the cover of a book. It’s the visual summary of your professional story, and it needs to capture the essence of your brand in a single glance. But what does that really mean? Let’s break it down.

When I first started working in the corporate world, I quickly learned that a headshot is much more than just a well-lit portrait. It reflects who you are professionally and, more importantly, how you want to be perceived. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or an up-and-coming entrepreneur, your headshot should be a visual extension of your personal brand.

Define Your Brand

Start by asking yourself, “What do I want my headshot to say about me?” Are you the creative visionary who challenges norms or the dependable leader who can be trusted with big decisions? Maybe you’re both. Your brand is the unique combination of your skills, values, and personality that sets you apart in your field.

When I work with clients, one of the first things we discuss is their brand. I had a client, a marketing manager for a tech company, who wanted to break away from the typical corporate mould. He wanted his headshot to reflect his innovative spirit and dynamic approach to his work. Together, we crafted a professional yet approachable look, with a hint of creativity—exactly what his brand needed.

Consider Your Industry

Different industries have different expectations. A lawyer’s headshot might lean toward the formal and authoritative, while a graphic designer’s might be more relaxed and creative. The key is to strike a balance between your personal style and the norms of your industry. For instance, I’ve seen executives in the finance industry opt for a more traditional look—dark suits, neutral backgrounds—while those in the tech sector often prefer something a bit more casual, perhaps with a pop of colour or a modern backdrop.

As you prepare for your headshot session, take some time to think about your brand. What do you want people to feel when they see your photo? What story do you want to tell before you even say a word? By understanding your brand, you’ll be able to communicate these ideas to your photographer, ensuring that your headshot is not just a picture, but a powerful statement about who you are and where you’re going.

Wardrobe Selection

Now that you’ve clearly understood your brand, it’s time to think about how you’ll visually communicate that brand through your attire. The clothes you wear in your headshot are more than just fabric; they’re a powerful tool for telling your professional story.

When choosing your wardrobe for a corporate headshot, think of it as selecting the perfect armour for a battle. You want to wear something that fits well and makes you feel confident and ready to conquer the world. Your clothing should reflect both your industry’s expectations and your unique personal style. It’s about finding that sweet spot where professionalism meets personality.

Stick to Classic and Professional Attire

Accessorise Thoughtfully

Accessories can be tricky. While they can add a touch of personality to your outfit, they can also become a distraction if overdone. A simple watch, a pair of understated earrings, or a classic tie can elevate your look without stealing the show. The key is moderation—your accessories should complement, not compete with, your overall appearance.

Consider this: I once photographed a CEO who insisted on wearing a bold, patterned tie that clashed with his suit. While the tie was certainly eye-catching, it drew attention away from his face, making the photo more about the tie than the man wearing it. After some gentle guidance, we switched to a simpler, solid-colour tie that brought focus back to his expression, resulting in a much more impactful headshot.

Grooming Matters

It’s not just about what you wear—it’s also about how you present yourself. Freshly groomed hair, a neat shave (or well-maintained facial hair), and minimal makeup can significantly affect how polished you appear. For men, a trim haircut and a well-kept beard (if you have one) can enhance your professional look. A hairstyle that frames the face without overshadowing it and natural-looking makeup that highlights your best features are often the best choices for women.

Think of grooming as the finishing touch on a masterpiece. You wouldn’t hang a painting without making sure the frame was just right, would you? The same goes for your headshot—your grooming should be the perfect frame that showcases your best self.

Wardrobe Considerations for Your Headshot Photography Professional Image

• Does your outfit align with the story you want your headshot to tell?
• Are your clothing choices appropriate for your industry while still reflecting your personal style?
• Do your accessories enhance your look, or do they distract from it?
• Is your grooming on point, ensuring you look polished and professional?

Let’s look at two professionals I’ve had the pleasure of photographing. The first was a financial analyst who wanted to convey reliability and professionalism. He chose a navy suit, white shirt, and simple, dark tie. The result was a classic, no-nonsense look that perfectly aligned with his role in the finance industry.

The second was a marketing director for a creative agency. She wore a vibrant teal blouse with a statement necklace that reflected her dynamic personality and the innovative nature of her work. Her wardrobe choice communicated her individuality while maintaining a professional appearance, making her stand out in a sea of traditional headshots.

By carefully selecting your wardrobe, you’re not just preparing for a photoshoot but crafting a visual representation of your brand. The right clothing can enhance your confidence, reflect your industry’s standards, and showcase your personality—all of which contribute to a powerful, effective headshot.

Preparing Physically and Mentally

Wardrobe sorted? Great. Now, let’s talk about something often overlooked but crucial: your physical and mental preparation. Because, let’s face it, even the best outfit in the world won’t shine if you’re not feeling your best.

Physical Preparation

Start by treating your body well in the days leading up to your session. This isn’t about drastic changes, but relatively simple, practical steps that can make a world of difference in how you look and feel.

Rest and Hydration

Diet and Exercise

While I’m not suggesting any drastic measures, eating well and exercising can help you feel more energetic and look more vibrant. Simple, healthy meals and light exercise, like walking or yoga, can keep you feeling great without adding unnecessary stress.

Mental Preparation

Now that your body’s in good shape, it’s time to focus on your mindset. Being in front of a camera can be daunting, especially if you’re not used to it. But with the right mental preparation, you can walk into your session with confidence and poise.

Visualise Success

Picture yourself nailing the perfect shot. Close your eyes and imagine how you want your headshot to look—your expression, posture, and overall vibe. This positive visualisation can help you feel more in control and ready to deliver.

Relaxation Techniques

If you’re feeling nervous, try deep breathing exercises or even a few minutes of meditation before your session. I’ve seen clients transform from tense and anxious to calm and composed in just a few minutes of focused breathing. Remember, the camera captures everything—including your mood—so the more relaxed you are, the better your photos will turn out.

Practice Makes Perfect

Stand in front of a mirror and practice your smile, posture, and “serious” look. This might initially feel awkward, but it’s an excellent way to get comfortable with the best expressions. These practised looks will come more naturally when you finally step in front of the camera, and our photographers will help guide you throughout the session.

Considerations for Your Personal Branding Photography Session

• How well-rested and hydrated are you feeling leading up to your session?
• What steps can you take to ensure you feel physically at your best?
• What mental exercises or relaxation techniques help you feel more confident and calm?
• Have you practised the expressions and poses that best represent your brand?

Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is as important as choosing the right outfit. When you’re feeling good, it shows—and that confidence makes a headshot stand out.

Communicating with Your Photographer

You’ve got your wardrobe sorted and feel physically and mentally prepared. Now, let’s talk about one of the most critical aspects of ensuring a successful headshot session: communication with your photographer. This isn’t just about showing up and smiling for the camera—this is about collaborating with a professional to capture your best self.

Pre-Shoot Consultation

Think of the pre-shoot consultation as the blueprint for your headshot. It’s where you and your photographer lay the foundation for what’s to come. During this time, be open about your goals for the session. What message do you want your headshot to convey? Are there any specific angles you prefer, or perhaps features you’re more conscious of?

For example, I once worked with a senior executive who was self-conscious about her smile. She felt that her smile looked forced in past photos and didn’t reflect her true personality. During our consultation, we talked about this concern, and I suggested some relaxed poses and candid shots where she wasn’t directly facing the camera. By addressing her concern head-on, we captured a natural, authentic smile that she loved.

On the Day of the Shoot

When the big day arrives, remember that this is a collaborative effort. Don’t be afraid to communicate with your photographer during the session. Speak up if something doesn’t feel right—a pose, an angle, or even the lighting. A good photographer will appreciate your input and work with you to adjust until you’re both happy with the results.

Here’s a little insider tip: Most people have a “good side” of their face that they feel more confident about. If you know yours, let your photographer know early on. If you are unsure, ask your photographer to help identify it during the session. I’ve had clients who didn’t realise they had a preference until we experimented with different angles during the shoot. Once we found that sweet spot, their confidence soared, showing in every shot.

Reviewing the Shots

Questions to Consider

• Have you clearly communicated your goals and preferences with your photographer?
• Are you comfortable giving and receiving feedback during the shoot?
• Do you know which angles or expressions best represent your brand?
• Are you prepared to review the shots and make a confident decision on the final images?

Let’s talk about a young entrepreneur I photographed recently. He was launching his tech startup and wanted his headshot to exude innovation and approachability. During our pre-shoot consultation, he was very clear about the vibe he was going for—he wanted to look like the kind of person you’d trust to lead a groundbreaking project but also grab a coffee with. We worked closely throughout the session, experimenting with different backgrounds, poses, and expressions. After reviewing the shots, he chose an image that perfectly captured his brand—a confident yet down-to-earth leader ready to take on the world.

Communication is Key: Remember, your photographer is there to help you achieve your vision. The more openly you communicate, the better your chances of capturing a headshot that looks great and feels authentically you. This isn’t just about following instructions—it’s about creating a dialogue that ensures your headshot is a true representation of your professional self.

Conclusion

You’ve now got the blueprint for a successful corporate headshot session, but why stop there? Your headshot is just the beginning. Imagine having a full suite of personal branding photos that capture not just one side of you but the entire spectrum of your professional persona. These images can be your secret weapon—ready to impress on your website, social media, marketing materials, and beyond.

In today’s visually-driven world, personal branding isn’t just a trend; it’s a necessity. Your professional image is more than just a headshot—it’s a story told through every visual touchpoint. Whether you’re looking to attract new clients, land your dream job, or establish yourself as a thought leader, a personal branding photoshoot can elevate your presence and set you apart from the competition.

Now is the time to invest in yourself. Don’t settle for a generic image that barely scratches the surface of who you are. Let’s create something unique—photos that showcase your strengths, passion, and vision. With a personal branding photoshoot, you’ll have a versatile collection of images that reflect your brand and give you the confidence to step into any professional scenario with your best foot forward.

So, are you ready to take your brand to the next level? Don’t wait—book your personal branding photoshoot today, and let’s capture the essence of your professional story. Because, in the end, it’s not just about how you look; it’s about how you make your mark on the world. Let’s ensure your images speak for you—loudly, clearly, and with undeniable impact.