So, you have booked in for a headshot photograph and are hoping for a fresh start with a profile photo that is going to help you stand out from the crowd.

I know getting this done can be up there with going to the dentist or getting a tax bill through the mail!

Well help is at hand.

I’m going to pass on some unique tips that I have learnt from two decades as a headshot photographer, things that you can do that are achievable and easy to put in place.

PUT YOUR BEST FACE FORWARD

1.   Drink lots of water, starting a couple of days before the shoot – this can help make sure your skin is hydrated and puffed up, avoiding wrinkles and yours eyes are bright and clear.

There’s a study by Marie Claire magazine about it here

2.   If you are wearing make-up, check to see what type of light the photographer is using, it will probably be a soft and diffused one, in which case don’t go overboard with the make up and make sure it’s well blended.

If its a hard light source you can afford to be a bit bolder - a ring flash or spot light.

Have foundation on hand in case there are shiny spots under the lights.

It might also be a good investment to hire a make up artist/ hair stylist for the shoot. Not only will you look great but it will make you feel confident for the shoot. And hey who doesn’t like to be pampered!

I certainly always recommend working with a MUA.

3.   For men’s hair, I prefer a haircut that’s a couple of weeks old, especially if you don’t want to look over groomed. I learnt that trick from my sister who is hugely successful in the world of hair! 

Women take some hair clips with you to put in place any loose hair.

GET THE WARDROBE RIGHT

If you search on the internet for this topic there is a lot of info. So, I am just going to focus on the small things that can make a large difference.

• If you are going to wear a tie make sure that it’s that right shirt collar and tie combination. There are different shirt collars – classic, cutaway, button down etc. and they all suit different ties as well as faces.

Also, it’s quite good fun to learn and have a go at all the different types of tie-knot you can do:

• Necklines have to be chosen carefully, especially if going for a photo with a close crop.

 In my opinion a scooped neck is not the best choice, because when the image is cropped you want the neckline to frame the bottom edge of the photo. That’s why I like scarves!

• Avoid any clothes that use words or logos. They will take attention from you, and you don’t want that. It also can make cropping the image difficult so overall best avoided. Unless of course, if it is your company logo, then it is down to the photographer to include it in the best way possible.

 

So,  there you have it not too onerous and easily actionable.

 

If you want to know more message me and I will send you my FREE pdf guide – “How to Prepare for Your Headshot”