So you need a new headshot? 4 Tips to help you prepare!
Headshots. Everyone’s favorite topic. We bet you do a little happy dance every time someone requests an updated headshot from you right? Ha! We know—highly unlikely.
But what is it about that word anyway that makes almost everyone cringe? Maybe it has something to do with flashbacks to an Olan Mills portrait session where the photographer had you pose in front of a fake backdrop with your elbow awkwardly propped on your knee, or that okay-ish snapshot your husband took of you in the backyard wearing that “what was I thinking” blouse to update your resume cover photo…. Or maybe your last “headshot” was the one where you attempted to crop your family out, leaving only a-very-zoomed-in-off to the side-crop of your face because it’s the only semi-decent photo of you in years...we’ve all done it okay- it’s fine, no judgement here.
If any of these terribly unfortunate scenarios are ringing true for you right now, we have good news! First off- It’s not your fault, you just had a not so great experience getting in front of the camera. Secondly, we have some great tips to follow to inspire you to get out there and try again.
Follow these tips + tricks to turn your headshots from “Damn it” to “Dammmmmmmnnnnn”.
Tip #1
Start with looking at the reason behind needing an updated headshot. Are these for your website, social media, LinkedIn profile etc? Then think about who is viewing these photos? Your ideal client, customer or potential new boss? With these questions in mind, take a deep breath, visualize your business/brand, and see what you come up with in your head. Do these photos need to reflect your fun, outgoing personality or a more detail oriented, put-together tone? Decide on the mood you are going for and then go into your photo shoot with the same mindset to mirror that feeling.
Pro-Tip: Write down a few of these questions and answers, then communicate them to your photographer ahead of time so that you can figure out the best location for your shoot and create a shot-list that will reflect these goals.
Tip #2
Let’s talk about getting ready! Styling your clothing, hair, make-up and accessories is likely the most stressful part of a photo shoot. But if you follow this simple trick, you’ll find that it can be a lot easier and dare we say...fun! Start by thinking about color- If you own your own business, what are your brand colors? Look through your website or recent social media posts and gather some information about colors you tend to incorporate and which ones you’d like to include more. Then base your outfits around those colors for the shoot. Make sure that you select clothing that matches not only your brand colors, but your vibe too- think of the work you did in Trick #1!
Pro-Tip: Selecting clothing and accessories that you love and feel the most “YOU” in is paramount. After figuring out a few outfit styles you know will represent you well, find the pieces in your brand colors to really bring it all together.. Example- Fun and upbeat might mean a brightly colored ensemble including patterns or textured pieces. A more laid back style would be bluejeans paired with a graphic tee or slouchy blouse with a pop of color in a bracelet or necklace. A more serious, “take no shit” look will come through best with a tailored blazer, power heels and bold lipstick. Putting together an outfit with these things in mind, helps to strengthen your brand and communicate your personality to ideal clients/customers.
Tip #3
Choose an experienced photographer. We know that sounds a little obvious, but it can make all the difference. Be sure to work with a photographer that has headshots or branding images in their portfolio. Not sure if they do but you love their style? Go ahead and ask them! Asking lots of questions before committing to a session is a great way to ensure that you get the kind of images you are looking for. Be sure to describe the type of locations that best represent you, how many outfits you’d like to include and how long you should plan to spend with the photographer. Most experienced headshot/branding photographers likely have a list of FAQs or style guides that will put your mind at ease and help calm your nerves so you can come prepared, knowing exactly how to get the most out of your session.
Pro-Tip: Communication ahead of time is crucial. Try to hop on the phone with your photographer or email a list of questions in advance to get to know them-this will really help you loosen up and be ready to have fun in front of the camera.
Tip #4
Have fun. No that’s not a typo, we’re serious. Having your photo taken does not have to be awful- and if it has been in the past, we’re truly sorry because it really should be a fun experience. It can be a real gift to yourself to put in the effort of looking and feeling your best beforehand so that you can show up with confidence and rock your shoot...because hey, you’re really badass and you deserve a really great photo of yourself!!
Pro-Tip: Just be yourself… and if you’re really nervous, maybe take a shot of whiskey before you start (but only one!)
If you, or a friend happens to live in and around Longmont, we have a Headshot + Mini Branding Event coming up on Monday November 8th, 2021 at the gorgeous Sugarhill Studio. For more info and to book your session, head to our events page! Interested in booking a full branding session? Contact us
Hope to see you soon!
XOXO,
Your Branded Beet Girls
Jennifer Bridge (left) + Nikki Knez (right) Co-Founders of Branded Beet
