How To Pose For A Good Headshot

Why Take a professional headshot anyway

In todays world, most people find you online before they ever get a chance to meet you in person. People make snap judgements of whether they trust you, think your competent or even if they like you, in just a few seconds based off of your photos online. This is the reason why you want to make sure that your headshots or branding images are professional. Professional headshots and branding images should create trust, likability, and show confidence.

Some of the key elements to a great headshot are:

1. Flattering light. I always try and use the most flattering light possible. We can show the contour of your face with highlights and shadows, or soften your skin and hide natural skin blemishes with brighter beauty lighting.

2. Pose and expression. This is where people start getting anxious. “Ahhh I don’t know how to pose"!” No problem. I will coach you 100% of the way through your session making sure you’re looking amazing and have confident and approachable expressions.

3. Wardrobe. Make sure you bring outfits that make you feel and look like a million bucks. Clothing should fit you well and be ironed or pressed.

The Impact of Posing

When we talk about posing, we’re not talking about the rolled shoulders, blank stares, hands on the hips like you see in fashion magazines. it’s about your body langauge, showing confidence, showing approachability, it’s about how you want to present yourself. This all helps to show authenticity, your personality and show professionalism.

How To Prepare For Your Headshot Session

Being prepared for your session is key! Here are a few tips:

1. Wardrobe. Like I said above, find outfits that you are comfortable in and that fit you well. Stay away from wild patters, colors that are close to your skin tone and anything with logos.

2. Grooming. Make sure that your hair is neat and styled the way you normally have it. Men should consider a fresh shave, or keep your facial hair groomed and looking good!

3. Relaxation. If you get anxious being in front of a camera, take some deep breaths, stay calm and stay hydrated! I’ve got your back on the posing and expressions, you can relax and dare I say it, have fun!

Some Fundamental Tips On Posing For A Headshot

A few key techniques can make a world of difference:

• Posture: Stand straight. Seems simple, but we all tend to slouch when in front of a camera. Standing tall looks more professional and exudes confidence

• Give me Your Best Turtle: I’m going to coach you on bringing you chin and forehead straight out and slight down. This helps get rid of double chins and helps to accentuate your jaw line.

• Shoulder Positioning: I’ll coach two different positions for your shoulders. Straight on and slightly turned. I find that straight is more commanding great for LinkedIn, and a slight turn is better for your about me page.

• Hand and Arm Placement: Hands and arms are best at your side. I don’t like to incorporate them in headshots, business portraits, yes, but not for headshots.

Facial Expressions and Eye Contact

Your face is the focal point of a headshot. You don’t need to know this, I’ll coach it!

• Smile Naturally: This is hard to do on command, so, be ready for some silly one liners and bad dad jokes to bring on a smile and a laugh. “Give me a look like you came here to knee cap me!”

• Engage with the Camera: We’re going to interact, I’m going to say silly things and hopefully you’re going to laugh at them. Engaging will help make you less aware of the camera and, we’ll be nailing down strong genuuine facial expressions.