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Let’s talk about Headshots!

Jan 27

Some things are meant to be painless.
Quite often, when I run into acquaintances they ask me if I’m “busy”.  The truth is that at various times of the year there are some lulls and then there are the rush times.  This time of year, I get to step away from the event part of the business and concentrate more on the social media end.  By that I mean “headshots”.  Yes, they do occur throughout the year, but more frequently in the first quarter.
 In this era of social media, your image could make or break a client’s decision to pick up the phone and call you.  It’s not because they perceive you to be good looking or not.  It is because your business image must be inviting.  Not so much “warm and fuzzy”, but it must contain a sense of “trust worthy”.
The second most comment I receive regarding this issue is… “I never look good in a photo!”  I always reply with, “You’ve never had me take your image!”  More likely, the reason you are not pleased with yourself in a photograph is because it was shot wrong.  Every face is different, therefore, every headshot should not be shot the same way.  Knowledge of the way light falls on the face plays a huge factor on whether your image is flattering or not.
So what is to be expected from a professional headshot session?  First of all, expect to spend about 45 minutes with me.  Since each headshot is what I consider “custom”, I evaluate the best light, the best angle and consult with you regarding clothing.  You are expected to change out of your original outfit to a second outfit and perhaps even a third.  Having your makeup done (ladies obviously) is recommended.  If you do not have a clue as to who to hire, let me know.  I have a list of some amazing make up artists.  Hair?  It is again recommended to go and get a professional “blow out” from your stylist.  Now is not the time to try something new!
There is no such thing as the “norm” when it comes to creating a great headshot.  It doesn’t have to be a vertical suit picture.  It most definitely can be a horizontal picture.  Imagine if you will the Sunday paper with hundreds of photographs of real estate agents.  All are the same.  Then there is always one person, who does something different.  I will wager money that you will read that agents bio before everyone else!
And lastly, don’t let your image go longer than a year and a half old!  For goodness sake, you do change in the course of a year!  Keep it fresh!  You are advertising yourself first!

Below are a few headshots that are out of the “norm”.  Remember that there is no set rule.