A polished headshot can open doors—whether you’re updating LinkedIn, landing a new role, or building your personal brand. But let’s be honest: no one wants an awkward angle or the dreaded double chin.
As a Chicago corporate headshot photographer, I coach hundreds of professionals on how to pose for photos that look confident, approachable, and sharp. Here are some of my go-to posing tips that help clients look their best—and actually enjoy the process.
The TURTLE TECHNIQUE
Yes, it sounds silly—but it works.
Imagine you’re a turtle peeking out of your shell. Gently extend your neck forward and tuck your chin down slightly. It might feel awkward, but this subtle stretch creates a clean jawline and prevents extra chin action in photos.
The trick is to stretch, not strain.
See it in action in our Chicago headshot gallery.
The Peach Hold
Here’s a fun visual: imagine you’re holding a peach just under your chin. Not too hard, not too loose—just enough to keep your jawline engaged and your posture aligned.
This simple mental trick keeps your neck and chin firm, adds subtle structure to your face, and helps avoid any unnatural stiffness. It also gives your headshot a more natural, relaxed look.
The Forehead Push
This one’s straight from the face yoga playbook. Gently push your forehead forward (not your entire head!) as if you’re leading with your brow. This tightens the skin under your chin and smooths out forehead lines—without looking like you’re head-butting the camera.
Keep your shoulders relaxed and your spine tall—posture matters just as much as facial positioning.
Ready for Headshots That Actually Look Like You—At Your Best?
Additional Posing Tips for Better Headshots
•Straighten up: Stand or sit tall with your shoulders back. It boosts confidence and improves your profile instantly.
•Find your angle: A slight head tilt—left or right—can highlight your best side and soften jawlines.
•Smile with your eyes: Don’t overthink the mouth. If your eyes are engaged, your expression will feel warm and natural.
Want to see these tips in action? Check out examples in our Chicago corporate headshot gallery.
Let's Do This!
Looking to update your headshot or book a team session? Work with a Chicago corporate headshot photographer who knows how to coach real people (not models) into their most confident photos.
Let’s talk. We make the process easy—and the results speak for themselves.