When you schedule a professional headshot session, you’re investing in showcasing the very best version of you and your business. These photos will help you market yourself by telling your story in a unique way.

We live in a visual world and it’s important to make a good impression right away. When you use photos that look authentic, you make it that much easier for people to trust you.

So, how do you ensure you’re making the most of this opportunity?

Connect with your photographer

When you work with a photographer you love and connect with, your images automatically turn out better. Find a photographer whose work inspires and excites you. Scroll through their online portfolio and social media feed to get an idea of what they’re capable of and if it suits your personal style. At the end of the day, you want to feel completely comfortable in front of your photographer.

Communicate what you want

A photographer can’t give you the results you want if they don’t know what you want. Clearly communicating your ideas to your photographer is essential. Provide them with details on the first impression and message you want to portray. Share your ideas and examples with them. They may even be able to give you suggestions you haven’t thought about yet. When I am able to speak with my clients in advance, one of the first questions I ask is, "What's the message we want to get across?" With that information, I'm able to do a much better job of guiding my clients in poses that convey that message.

Think carefully about your location

Your location will help set the tone for the shoot, so choose carefully. There are so many options to choose from that go beyond a basic studio setting. Just make sure that your photographer has actual experience in both studio, and off site / natural light photography. For a bit more of a deep dive on that, check out my blog titled, "Does My Professional Headshot Need to Be In a Studio?"

Plan your outfit, hair and makeup

Don’t leave your outfit, hair and makeup arrangements to the last minute. If possible, get a professional to assist you so that you look your best. In fact, your photographer may even be able to give you a few suggestions. The outfit you choose will also play a major role in the message you send when people see your photos, so think twice about what you want to wear. Better yet, have a few options available. Keep in mind that you want to be able to use these photos for a few years, so rather opt for a timeless look.

One of the best business decisions I've ever made, is when I decided to team up with a hair and makeup artist. I had to go through a lot of people to find just the right person who could not only do makeup, but also relate to my clients and help put them at ease prior to the photo session. I offer this as an option service but, more and more, my clients are choosing to take advantage of this service. My clients look their best, my pictures look their best, and my client satisfaction is through the roof!

In summary, there's more to it than just showing up to a photographer's studio and standing in front of a camera with a smile. Planning is the key underlying factor in making the most of your personal branding and headshot photoshoot. Don’t be scared to ask your photographer for additional guidance.

feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions:

Learn more about my headshots here: https://www.donevansphotography.com/headshots

Feel free to reach out to me: Contact

Insta: @donevansphotography