Let's Go Beyond the Clothes

Real Talk on How to Prepare for Your New Headshot:  Beyond Ironing Your Clothes and Getting a Haircut

I’m going to be honest, most people are not coming to my studio for a new headshot because they simply want to.  There is almost always some sort of external factor at play when my phone rings.  And because of this, many of my clients feel like getting a new headshot is a chore. Ugh!  Not really the vibe I am looking for when people call me to book. But I get it.  

There are few things that have to happen to book the appointment but once that appointment is booked, sometimes the stress can start.  Stress about what to wear, how to do your hair, accessories, posing, lighting, expressions, begins.  You don’t want to look like you are trying too hard but you also don’t want to look like you don’t care.  It is a fine balancing act.  But as a headshot photographer right here in Vienna, VA, I've seen firsthand that the best photos aren't just about the perfect outfit, they really aren’t.  The best headshots come from my clients who feel genuinely confident in front of the camera.  

I work with a lot of folks in government, law, and education.  These are the people who need a headshot that says they are professional and it also needs to say that you are trustworthy, relatable, proficient, and caring.  That is A LOT of pressure on a headshot.  

So, how do we make that happen?  I’m going to skip the obvious tips like having a great outfit and getting a good night's sleep.  (You can read about those tips on this Blog post or this one) 

Let’s dig a little deeper into the things that make a great headshot session and, as a result, make a GREAT headshot.

1. Why?

Before you start ironing that shirt, ask yourself a simple question: "What's this photo for?"

• Is it for your LinkedIn profile to attract new clients?
• Is it for your company's website to show who's on the team?
• Is it for a conference you’re speaking at?

This is something I ask every. Single. Client. who books a session.  This is so important to know.  The answer can change everything. A headshot for a corporate bio might be a little more traditional, while one for a personal brand on social media is probably much more relaxed. When you know your goal, it's easier to create a photo that actually works for you.

If I don’t know why you need the images, I can’t exceed your expectations.  Please don’t assume that all headshots are the same.  

2. Practice

Have you ever seen a teenager take a selfie?  Something that should be so simple can take a very long time. They take painstaking time in getting exactly the right angle and expression.  They don’t wing it or leave it to chance.  (And God forbid their mother post an unapproved photo of them on socials.  The wrath is swift and harsh!!)   These teenagers practice expressions in the bathroom and know exactly how they want to be photographed and what they want to look like.  We could take a lesson from them when it comes to prepping for our own sessions.

It goes beyond just practicing a good smile.  Most of us don’t have a camera in our face 24/7, we need to practice a genuine, confident expression. 

Try this exercise before your session: stand in front of a mirror and think of something that makes you happy or proud. Let that feeling show in your eyes and a slight smile on your lips. This little exercise can make all the difference, turning a stiff photo into one that looks warm and approachable. 

Then practice other expressions, take a lot of selfies.  Get those expressions down so you can recreate them with your photographer.  But don’t forget to trust them in making adjustments to what you bring so you can look your very best. 

3. Curate

Let’s talk about the clothes, but not in the standard way you might be used to in blogs like this.  Choosing your outfit is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure a successful headshot session. And it isn’t because of the actual clothes.

Wait. . . What?

Stick with me here, it really isn’t about the actual clothing items.  It is understood that you are going to pick something that fits well, is ironed, and clean. This is more about wearing something that makes you feel genuinely confident. When you put on an outfit that you love and that fits you perfectly, it changes the way you show up. You stand a little taller, you feel more in control, and you project an attitude that is impossible to fake. The right clothes can act like a professional superhero costume, empowering you to own the moment.  

4. The Small Stuff

The day of your shoot, the goal is to feel relaxed and ready. Here are a few little things that make a big difference:

• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your session for healthy-looking skin.
• Listen to your favorite Hype music.  What song always gets you in a great mood and readys to you to take on the world?  Listen to that song on repeat on your way to the studio or, better yet, let me know what that song is and we can ask Alexa to play it while you are here.  (She usually agrees without complaint.)
• Do a quick nail check. You never know when your hands might make it into the frame.
• Have options. I always recommend bringing an extra outfit. It gives us flexibility and ensures we get a shot you love.

Ready for Your Close-Up?

A great headshot isn't about being perfect; it's about being prepared and letting your true professional self shine through. When you're ready to create a headshot that feels authentic and confident, let's connect! I'd love to help you capture an image that truly represents you.