Your business card is often the first impression a potential client or partner has of you. A professional headshot on your card can elevate your brand, reinforce your credibility, and make you more memorable. However, many professionals make critical mistakes when choosing or designing their business card headshots. Here’s what to avoid to ensure your headshot reflects the professionalism and expertise you want to convey.
1. Using an Outdated Headshot
Your headshot should be a current and accurate representation of you. If your photo is more than three to five years old, it’s time for an update. An outdated headshot can create a disconnect between your in-person appearance and your professional materials, reducing trust and credibility.
2. Choosing a Poorly Lit or Low-Quality Image
Lighting is one of the most crucial factors in a great headshot. Poor lighting can create unflattering shadows, make your skin look dull, or fail to highlight your best features. Additionally, using a low-resolution or pixelated image on your business card will make you appear unprofessional. Investing in professional photography ensures a high-quality image that maintains clarity and impact.
3. Using an Inappropriate Background
A cluttered or distracting background takes attention away from your face and can make the headshot appear unprofessional. Stick with neutral, solid backgrounds or simple office settings that enhance, rather than compete with, your image. A professional studio setup with controlled lighting will always yield the best results.
4. Wearing the Wrong Attire
Your clothing should align with your industry and brand. Business professionals should opt for classic, well-fitting attire in solid colors. Avoid busy patterns, overly casual outfits, or anything that doesn’t align with your professional persona. Think of your headshot as an extension of your brand identity.
5. Poor Cropping and Composition
A business card headshot should be well-composed, with your face clearly visible and positioned correctly within the frame. Overly tight cropping that cuts off parts of your head or too much empty space around you can create an unbalanced look. Professional photographers understand how to frame and crop your image for maximum impact.
6. Overuse of Filters and Editing
While some retouching is acceptable to remove blemishes or adjust lighting, excessive editing can make your photo look unnatural. Over-whitened teeth, heavily smoothed skin, or artificial enhancements can make you appear less trustworthy. The goal is to look like the best version of yourself, not an altered version.
7. Ignoring Brand Consistency
Your headshot should match the branding of your company and other marketing materials. If your business has a sleek, modern aesthetic, your headshot should reflect that. If you’re part of a corporate team, maintaining a consistent headshot style among all team members helps create a cohesive brand image.
8. DIY vs. Professional Photography
While it might be tempting to use a smartphone or have a friend take your headshot, DIY photos rarely meet the same professional standard as those taken by an experienced photographer. Professional lighting, posing, and high-quality equipment make a significant difference in the final image quality.
9. Failing to Engage with the Camera
Your expression in a headshot matters. A stiff, forced smile or disengaged gaze can make you seem unapproachable. A professional photographer will guide you to achieve a natural and engaging expression that conveys confidence and warmth.
10. Forgetting to Update Your Headshot Across Platforms
Once you have a great business card headshot, ensure you update it across all professional platforms, including LinkedIn, company websites, email signatures, and other branding materials. A consistent image strengthens your personal brand and makes you more recognizable.
Work with St Louis Headshots for the Best Business Card Headshots
At St Louis Headshots, we understand the nuances of capturing the perfect professional image. As a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, we have the right equipment and creative crew to ensure your headshot stands out.
We offer:
- Full-service studio and location video and photography
- Expert editing, post-production, and licensed drone pilots
- Custom production services tailored to diverse media requirements
- Repurposing your photography and video branding for greater marketing impact
- Private studio lighting and setups ideal for business headshots and interview scenes
- A spacious studio environment that allows for customized sets and props
- Complete production support, from private interview studio setups to providing sound and camera operators
- The ability to fly specialized drones indoors for unique branding perspectives
Since 1982, St Louis Headshots has collaborated with businesses, marketing firms, and creative agencies throughout the St. Louis area, delivering high-quality headshots that enhance professional branding. Let us help you create the perfect business card headshot to make a lasting impression. Contact us today to schedule your session!
314-913-5626
Mike Haller
Studio: 4501 Mattis Road St. Louis, MO 63128
St Louis Headshots 