A headshot is something that will be seen by others, so you want to look your best. You might not know what to wear or how to style your hair, but with these helpful tips, you’ll be rocking your next photo shoot in no time!
For those who don’t know, a corporate headshot is a photo taken of oneself as part of a company’s profile. It can also serve as a substitute for an online avatar on websites such as LinkedIn.
What Is A Corporate Headshot?
When you’re posing for a photo to be used in a company profile, the first thing that you need to do is determine what type of photo you want. There are two types of headshots: studio shots and street photography.
Studio headshots
Studio headshots are the type of photo that you would receive if you sent in an application to an internship or a business and were waiting to see if the company would give you a job. Studio shoots are much more formal, with the camera and other equipment set up in the best spot.
However, you may need to be at least slightly prepared if you are going to be a member of a board of directors. The people you’ll be photographing are usually doing a job that involves a lot of public speaking and acting. Therefore, be sure that you have practiced with a mirror before.
Choosing The Right Clothing
First thing’s first: How are you going to get your corporate headshot? There are a few ways. You could hire a photographer, or you could try and take your own photo. While you are capturing your photo, there are a few things to keep in mind. Start with the location. Some companies might have specific requirements on where to take the photo. In that case, your corporate photographer could help you with the location. If the place has a wall or a podium, don’t place yourself behind it. You want to be in front of the background.
Dressing For The Day
Don’t wear anything too bright. When you’re taking photos in the morning, your makeup should be brighter than when you’re having your day in the office. If you’re shooting an outdoor scene, it’s probably best to avoid patterned clothing.
Styling Your Hair
When you work in an office environment, your hair is likely to be a focal point. The best way to have it photographed in a flattering manner is to style it in advance.
One of the best ways to look smart and well-groomed is to get a stylist to blow-dry it and trim it to a few inches, so that it’s easy to blow-dry and put in a bun or style it with other products that will give it bounce.
Eyebrows
Eyebrows are probably one of the most important features on your face, as they will help to define your face and draw attention to your eyes. They are your most important feature when it comes to making your picture look good. If you have bushy brows, you’ll definitely want to have them shaved down. This will have a major impact on how your eyebrows appear.
What To Do With Your Face
Just the way it sounds, don’t overthink it and be yourself. It’s one of the most important things for a photo shoot to be natural and just you. You’re in the spotlight, so be careful with how you speak, how you laugh, what you say and even what you do with your hands.
Facial expressions are the biggest thing. If you are nervous about something, keep it to yourself. No one wants to see you hiding in your hands.
Make sure to get into a comfortable position so you don’t put pressure on your face. Your posture will be different as well, so make sure you are comfortable in whatever you are wearing.
A Natural Body Language
This one’s pretty straightforward. If you stand too straight or too hunched, it’s going to be obvious to the photographer, your future boss, your future employee.
What Not To Do
Here’s a few things that will make you look like a total dork:
Don’t wear a suit. Just don’t. Your suit should be kept in a safe place and never worn on the head.
Oversize clothes. In general, it’s best to keep your style to no more than a size eight, but size zero is even better.
No dress shoes with dress pants. Your pants should be no more than two inches above your shoes.
No fishnets.
No visible tattoos.
It’s also a good idea to wear something that’s a bit darker than the color of your suit or shirt. It will help soften the harsh lines on your face.
Keep in mind, when you are at your interview or pitch meeting, you’ll probably not be thinking about your photo. So, if you get nervous, stay in your outfit, sit straight, keep your hands in your lap, and make sure to smile.
Conclusion
Whether you’re in college, just starting out in your career, or already in your career, getting a headshot is a good idea for any professional! This will allow you to find jobs, network, and look your best in the process.
