Why You Should Get a Professional Headshot
Why You Need a Professional Headshot
Your headshot is your introduction and first impression. On social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, people often search for employee prospects, employer prospects, and potential collaborators. Chances are, you’ve Googled someone you’re considering working with, and their headshot was likely the first thing you see.
The Importance of a Professional Headshot
First Impressions: A professional headshot gives others a glimpse of your personality and style. It should represent the visual style and persona you want to reflect, making a strong first impression.
Brand Cohesion: For business owners, a custom headshot is crucial for maintaining a cohesive brand and company identity. If you have multiple employees, it’s important that everyone’s headshots have a unified look while still showcasing individual personalities.
Professional Image: Whether you’re job hunting, networking, or marketing your services, a professional headshot helps you present a polished, credible image that stands out.
What to Consider When Hiring a Professional Photographer
When looking for a headshot photographer, there are several factors to consider:
Reviews: While reviews can provide some insight, they don’t always guarantee quality. (Although I do have more 5-star reviews than any other headshot photographer in the San Francisco Bay Area.)
Price: Low prices often correlate with lower quality. Given that your headshot will serve you for years, the cost difference over time is minimal.
Portfolio: The most crucial factor is the photographer’s work. Ensure you love their portfolio before hiring them.
Evaluating a Photographer’s Work
When reviewing a photographer’s portfolio, consider the following:
Variety: Do their images all look the same? A good photographer should offer a variety of styles, lighting setups, and post-production techniques to ensure your headshot is unique.
Quality: Look for natural-looking retouching, well-done lighting, and authentic expressions. Avoid photographers whose work looks artificial or overly retouched.
Personalization: Choose a photographer who customizes their approach based on the client’s personal style or company brand, rather than using a one-size-fits-all setup.
Creativity: You want your headshot to stand out and be unique to make a memorable impression. That means you want a photographer who does something more creative than typically boring headshots.
What Details to Consider
Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, compare their work side by side. Pay attention to:
Style and Expression: Does the photographer capture a range of emotions and styles that resonate with you?
Lighting and Retouching: Good lighting and retouching should enhance the image without making it look fake or unnatural. Look for realistic skin that doesn’t look waxy, natural teeth, and eyes that don’t “pop” unnaturally.
Next Steps
After deciding to get new professional headshots, provide your photographer with examples of styles you like. If you’re unsure of what you want, don’t worry—I collaborate with clients to define a look that fits their brand or personal identity.
Reference Images: Send your photographer reference images to help them understand your desired style.
Collaboration: A good photographer will work with you to create a unique image that reflects your personality and professional goals.
It’s Time, Get That New Headshot
A professional headshot is an essential investment in your personal and professional brand. It helps you make a strong first impression, maintain a cohesive brand identity, and present yourself in the best possible light. If you have any questions or would like to discuss how I can help you get a great new headshot, feel free to contact me anytime or book a session by using the buttons below.
