Your Zoom Headshot: Making a Strong Impression in Virtual Meetings
Zoom Headshot Photographer • Rockville, Bethesda, & Washington DC
Even though the COVID days may be behind us, looks like the convenience of Zoom and other virtual meeting platforms is here to stay. So whether you are attending a meeting that could have been an email, doing a virtual interview, or meeting with clients, putting the most professional version of yourself front and center is key.
The Power Of A Professional Image
We’ve all been on Zoom calls with colleagues who don’t want to turn the camera on. Like the black box or the fuzzy pixelated picture of their cat is doing them any favors. Your headshot is your digital handshake. It’s often the very first thing people see before they meet you. Having a professionally created headshot won’t only boost your confidence, it will elevate you and your brand.
Composition And Sizing
Zoom meetings often have you in a little window along the top or bottom of the screen. Having a well-placed professionally created headshot that can fill that box keeps the focus on your face allowing others to connect with you visually. Of course, once that meeting starts, turn your camera on! I always provide high and web-resolution files to every client so that their digital and print needs are met.
The Secret Sauce? Lighting And Expression
Well, the secret sauce is actually two things. It’s both your expression in your headshot and really flattering lighting. I like to find a light that flatters each subject. I shoot in the studio and have total control over my lighting. If we’re trying to enhance strong features or soften up skin, I’ve got you covered. Expression is the other half of the secret, and even more important than the lighting. I work to coach everyone on pose and expression. I always help people with expression to make sure that we’re always looking confident and approachable.
Dress Like You’re In The Office
This is often the first impression for many people seeing you for the first time. Make sure you’re wearing clothes that fit you properly and make you feel good. No trying to squeeze into that suit you wore for a friend’s wedding. Looking professional even on Zoom sends a message to everyone attending that you take your business and brand seriously.
On-Camera Tips For Zoom
Investing in a good webcam can make all the difference in the world. For around $100 on Amazon, you can find a great quality USB webcam that will make your video crisp and clear. No more murky dark and out-of-focus videos.
Investing in a decent light that can fit on your desk is also a huge improvement over the recessed can lights that are most likely in your home office space. These lights are pointing right down on top of you and will give you a yellow or green cast, not to mention, raccoon eyes. Getting a small light like a ring light or a small video light with a diffuser panel should be sufficient. The light should be placed on the desk in front of you at about a 45-degree angle. Direction light like that from the side helps give your face some dimension. If the light is pointed directly at you from the front, you can appear washed out and the light will be flat and unflattering.
When You’re Ready To Elevate Your Zoom And Online Appearance
When you’re ready to look your very best at every meeting you attend, give me a call or shoot me a note, and let’s book a session for you. These Zoom headshots can be used anywhere a headshot is needed. Linkedin, Facebook, Email Signature, Website, and business card. Your name, You can use it there.
About John Armato
John Armato is a professional headshot photographer based in Clarksburg, MD, and serving headshot clients throughout the Rockville, Bethesda, and Washington D.C. areas. John specializes in professional business and corporate headshots, acting headshots, realtor headshots, physician and healthcare headshots, branding headshots, and more.
No matter if you are looking for on-location or in-studio headshots, reach out to John today!