How to Prepare for Your Headshot Session
I have found it pretty common to be asked by my subjects how to “pose’ or “stand” when they are getting a headshot done. I’m also asked how to prepare for what can be an anxious photoshoot for many.
Before we launch into this piece, I want to say that it is very common to not know how to pose, or what to do when it comes to getting a headshot done. As your photographer, I want you to look as natural as possible. Cool, calm and collected (and of course confident). This is most likely how your client will be “meeting you” for the first time.
Let’s dive in shall we?
Tip #1 - Get a good sleep the night before
We know it’s tempting to stay at that networking event for one more drink, or to watch just one more episode on Netflix.
NEWS FLASH
Getting an extra hour or 2 will make a considerable difference the following day. If you’re feeling relaxed and positive, you’ll look that way for our session. This will also help reduce bags under your eyes and generally make you look more radiant.
Tip #2 - Presenting Yourself
People can be unsure of what to wear for a professional photo shoot. I always suggest wearing what you usually would when meeting a potential client. Even though a headshot is just head and shoulders (knees and toes…not really though), wearing an un-ironed shirt, or a scruffy t-shirt will show in the photo (and my OCD will kick in and I will go insane).
If you usually wear glasses, decide whether you’d like to wear them in your portrait. If you aren’t going to wear them, or aren’t sure, take them off around 15 minutes before. This will allow enough time for the red marks on your nose to disappear.
“So, what do I wear?”
Our advice would be to generally stay away from trends, be it fashion choices or hairstyles. The headshot or portrait should last you at least two years. Nothing will date it faster than wearing something that was in fashion for a single season.
For the ladies. When it comes to make up, LESS IS BEST. Trust me on this one.
Of course wear make up, but do not over apply. These photos should be a fairly natural representation of yourself. If you usually choose a bold color lipstick, go for it, but don’t go crazy with the eyeshadow, bronzer or blush.
“Ok, so how do I stand?”
I’m glad you asked!
Tip #3 - How to pose
Place your body at a 45º angle (I call it caddy corner) to the camera and head turned back towards the photographer. Don’t worry if this doesn’t make much sense now, I will be guiding you through this whole the shoot.
Remember, posture is key. No slouching (I can hear my dad’s voice off in the distance). Poor posture could evoke a lack of confidence, we don’t wan that. You might not believe it, but how you look through a lens reflects how confident you are, so stand tall and be self-assured.
Tip #4 - Just Relax
Relax and let me lead the conversation. Most people feel at least a little awkward having their photo taken (ok EVERYONE does). A true professional portrait photographer (that’s me!) will talk to you, make you laugh by saying silly things and build rapport to ensure that you’re relaxed so I can capture you at your best.
