Top 6 Tips for a headshot you'll love

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Today I’m sharing my top 6 tips for a headshot you will love:

  1. PROPER LIGHTING: Lighting is so important. Most women like BROAD LIGHT, which is when the light provides even lighting on your face. Turn directly toward a window that has great light coming in (north and south facing windows are great for this) and put your camera between you and the window. Inside your front door is a great location for superb lighting at home. If you prefer DIRECTIONAL LIGHT, angle yourself 45 degrees from the light source. You’ll see more shadows on one side of your face, and the details of your face (i.e. wrinkles) will be more noticeable, but the dramatic effect is sought after by many looking for a great headshot.

  2. ANGLE OF THE CAMERA: Most women I photograph prefer to have the camera slightly above their face, angled down. This angle creates better chin definition, minimizes bags under the eyes, and gives the face a more toned appearance. Don’t go too high, or everyone will know what you were trying to do. Be subtle, but keep the camera above eye level.

  3. POSTURE: LEAN IN, similarly to extending a hand for a cordial handshake. Look inviting, not standoff-ish. Angle your body away from the camera to minimize the width of your shoulders. Keep your torso long and shoulders down.

  4. EXPRESSION: LinkedIn says the most successful headshot is one that shows the subject as “slightly happy.” Super successful headshot guru Peter Hurley recommends you slightly squinch your eyes, gentlemen, for a cool look. Try a shot with teeth showing and one with a closed mouth smile to find your favorite look.

  5. CROP: For a MODERN crop, crop into the hairline. For a CINEMATIC crop, shoot the photo in landscape orientation (wider and shorter). Choose a 3/4 length shot or a traditional headshot. All of these crops are acceptable. Find your favorite.

  6. KEEP IT CURRENT: Redo your headshot every 3 years, or less. Make sure the photo looks like you now!

A few NO NOs: Do not use a photo with bad lighting. Do not use a headshot where your spouse, best friend, or child is cropped out of the photo. Do not use an image with low resolution.

Your headshot is your best marketing tool! An iPhone can take a fantastic photo, but you may choose to hire a professional. I’d love to help you create your best headshot and update your personal brand!