Professional Headshots: 11 Essential Tips for Ladies' Headshot and Business Photo Sessions
Headshots are a necessary thing for any business owner! This lovely client of mine was starting a new recruiting business and needed new and dynamic photos of herself for her marketing and business website. On the day of her session we met at my studio for hair and makeup, with my amazing makeup artist Kat Louis, and then we headed to Downtown Mill Valley, for some GREAT location shots. You can see some of the photos my client loved below!
A professional headshot session is an essential part of building your professional brand, whether you're an actor, model, business professional, or someone who needs a high-quality photograph for various purposes. To ensure a successful headshot session, here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Define your purpose: Determine the purpose of your headshots. Are these photos for acting auditions, corporate profiles, or personal branding? Understanding your purpose will help you plan the appropriate style, attire, and setting for your headshots.
2. Find your photographer: Look for a professional photographer experienced in headshot photography, like me! There are so many to choose from these days, but be sure to take a look at their photography style, professional headshot examples, and set up a consultation call to find out if you will be a good fit working together.
3. Wardrobe selection: Choose outfits that reflect your purpose and personal style. Avoid busy patterns or logos that might distract from your face. Bring a variety of clothing options to the session, including different colors and necklines, to provide some versatility and options. I am happy to allow for multiple outfit changes during our session. I partner with a wonderful stylist who can help if you don’t have time, or are overwhelmed by the thought of planning for the look you want.
4. Hair and makeup: Decide whether you'll do your hair and makeup yourself or hire a professional. For most professional headshots, natural and subtle makeup is recommended, enhancing your features without looking overly dramatic. I partner with a makeup artist who will create the perfect look for your headshot session, ladies!
5.Location and backdrop: Do you want an indoor studio shoot or an outdoor session. For an outdoor sesions, decide on a suitable location that complements your style, and has great lighting. I am happy to offer suggestions. If you would like some more traditional corporate like headshots, I am happy to bring this set up to you, in your home or your office.
6. Poses and expressions: I have a posing Tip guide I will share with you once you book your session so you will feel more comfortable on the day of your shoot, and you will have different poses to choose from once you see your photos. It is a good ideas to practice different facial expressions in the mirror before your session to become comfortable with your range of expressions, if this is your first time taking headshots.
7. Lighting and angles: Outdoor lighting is best in the morning or early evening, however if we are meeting mid day, we can find a shady area and the photos will turn out just as good as the ideal times for light. Indoor lighting is easy because it is flexible and can be manipulated. As for angles, straight on for men is usually best, and women look best somewhat angled to the camera.
8. Relax and have fun: During the session, try to relax and enjoy the process. Remember that I am here to guide you and capture your best moments. We can take breaks, feel free to stretch, and definitely stay hydrated to maintain your energy and enthusiasm throughout the shoot. Headshot sessions are usually 30-45 minutes, so you won’t be too tired in the end. Most of my clients say “that was fun” and “that was easy”!
9. Review and select: After the session, I will provide you with a selection of images to review. Take your time to choose the best shots that meet your requirements. Consider aspects such as facial expression, posture, lighting, and overall composition.
10. Post-processing and retouching: Once you've made your selections, I will retouch the chosen images as needed. Please let me know of any specific retouching requests you may have, such as blemish removal, color adjustments, fly away hair or wrinkle softening.
11. Image delivery: You will receive the final images digitally, in a password protected gallery, within in two weeks of your session. If you need prints, a framed print or any other products we can discuss this and I am happy to provide you with my product pricing. Otherwise, your digital images are included with your session fee. .