5 Hot Tips for Headshot Photography Session

What is the first thing your new employer or client will see? That’s right, YOU and your business. My headshot sessions are all about you and how you would like the world to see you, on a professional or casual level. I have put together some useful ideas and tips to help you prepare for your amazing headshot photography session.
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I will provide you with the best experience and stylish photographs to show off. 

​The step-by-step process!

-1- Budget
First of all let’s talk about your budget and goals. You will need to work out how much you want to spend and allocate yourself a budget. What do you need? Do you need a Lifestyle photoshoot with a number of different shots and photos of your employees? Do you need images for a working model portfolio, your own website or Linked-in.
For all of these you will definitely need high resolution and professional images.  There are many different price packages to look at, this will be discussed beforehand.

-2- Photoshoot Schedule
It’s always better to plan your session 1-2 weeks in advance to get the best results. Each session usually takes an hour, so leave time before and after to get yourself ready. A make-up artist is not included in the price but can be arranged to join us for extra cost (to pay his/her fees).

Use the days leading up to your session to research looks and styles you would like to use, take a look on my website or Pinterest (they have some fabulous ideas). 

-3- Studio vs Location 
Always better to plan ahead to give you enough time and your team members a chance to prepare themselves. You will need to decide on what background you would like to use - now this all depends on how you want your company or yourself portrayed (professional, causal and relaxed/friendly). Make sure you communicate this to your photographer. 

A grey background would suit a styled website or business profile.

An outdoor shot would compliment an artist or design company.
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A plain white background will make you stand out and make you the point of focus.

Then to decided on full-body, up to the waist or just shoulders and face. If you aren’t sure, will can use different approaches and try a number of looks for you. We’ll take lots of images, so you have a range to choose from. 

-4- The Outfit
Depending on the style of your company or personal preference, you can go for a conservative corporate look (Jacket/tie/shirt/skirt/dress) or you can go with a more modern fresh look (black jeans, fitted shirt/comfy jacket/floral dress). There are many ‘do’ and ‘don’t’ when you google the internet on what to wear, but this is your choice. Whatever you feel comfortable will show better in the images captured. The only thing I would suggest you avoid are busy patterns, narrow stripes or slogans. 

Heres some things to think about:
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Do you have a corporate colour or design?

Make sure your clothes are clean and ironed.

Try any new clothes beforehand.

Do not wear baggy, ill-fitting clothes. 

Any jewellery or watches would look good.

Do you need a fresh haircut? 

5- How to feel relaxed and comfortable? 
I do understand that the photoshoot can be stressful experience for those who aren’t used to the camera and posing. We aren’t all models with knowledge on how to pose and smile. I have heard a number of people tell me they weren’t happy with themselves regarding certain angles and sides, often saying they are terrible on camera - but this isn’t true. There is nothing to worry about. I am here to make you look great, give you a relaxed and fun experience.  I will give you posing ideas and make you feel at ease. I will help you with poses, angles to suit you, help positioning your hands and bring a natural smile to your face. 

If you are still nervous, have a good nights sleep, give yourself time to prepare and have a cuppa. Think positively and the rest will follow - you will do an amazingly.

And there you go my tips and tricks to help you prepare for your session. 
If you have any other questions I am always here to answer them.
I recommend plan, research your market (like any business) and relax.

I can’t wait to capture your images to make you feel great and help you stand out. 

Take care,
Emily xxx