One of the main components to a great headshot has little to do with the technical skills of the photographer and instead comes directly from the person in front of the camera. When we’re creating your portrait, we’ll be working together to make sure you’re feeling comfortable and confident in each frame.
Confidence is that element that turns headshots that are flat and ordinary into headshots that draw upon something much more profound than just the lines and curves that physically represent you. This is what we’ll be looking to draw out together in your session.
Natural confidence in front of the camera really is a rarity for most of us, including myself so I get it. But there are a few things you can do to prep yourself before your headshot session and that can also help while you are on set, because when you’re more comfortable you’re more confident.
You Be You
Every single person photographs differently. It’s all about angles. Take a moment to stand in front of a mirror to see what I mean.
Starting with your head at center, slowly rotate it a few degrees at a time to the left and then right. Do the same up and down. There are literally thousands of combinations, right? Each one presents you in a slightly different way based on the angle and your expression. The same is true moving down your body and doing the same with your shoulders, arms, core, legs, and feet for full-body portraits.
Of course, part of my job is to help you determine your best angle. When you’re in front of the camera, go back to that no-pressure zone of just posing for the mirror. Imagine you’re just delivering another stellar selfie, and you’ll be just fine.
Just You & Me
Self-sabotage is real. You let all these future thoughts of who will see the photo, what they’ll think, and how they’ll judge take control of your confidence now. It allows self-doubt to creep it’s way into your photographs and this doesn’t work in our favor.
Check all thoughts aside from what you’re doing here and now at the door. As far as being nervous in front of me, your headshot photographer, realize that I’m too busy judging myself to judge you. My singular focus is to deliver the the most enjoyable photography session possible by ensuring my own skills and artistry are on point. All you need to do is sit back and enjoy the process.
Wardrobe Choices
You’ll want to make your wardrobe choices depending on the kind of photoshoot you have. If you’re doing a corporate portrait against a backdrop we provide, this style guide can help. Alternatively, if you’re looking to do something more casual such as an environmental headshot for branding where we use your office as your backdrop, then you have some more room to play. In each case, it’s best too wear colors that not only compliment your skin tone but also coordinates well with your backdrop or environment.
I suggest you approach that choice from a highly personal standpoint. What makes you feel confident? What makes you feel comfortable? What do you love not on the rack but actually wearing? And whenever possible, play it safe and bring options as we can make some decisions together on set.
Do Some Research
Look around in magazines, on social media, and other sources for examples of what you’d like to accomplish. Look at backgrounds, lightening, poses, clothing, accessories, angles, props, and so on.
Use your research as a tool for inspiration more so than emulation. You’ll gain confidence in knowing your likes and dislikes and testing them out to see if they work specifically for you.
Be Open During Your Shoot
When we work with you, it’s an us thing. As with any relationship, this requires honesty and openness for success. I want to make sure that you are comfortable or if you need a break, want to regroup and I‘m also open to your questions and suggestions.
This openness removes all confidence blocks and allows us both to deliver. At the end of the day, we’ll have created portraits that you’ll be confident to show off.