stlouisheadshots

Can You Use a Selfie for Your Headshot? Why Professional Headshots Still Matter in a DIY World?

In the era of smartphones and social media, it’s tempting to think a selfie might suffice as a professional headshot—after all, the camera on your phone is probably better than the DSLR you used a decade ago. But for professionals and businesses serious about how they present themselves, the answer is clear: a selfie is not a headshot.

Whether you need a clean corporate backdrop or a more styled environment with props and branded color, our studio is designed for flexibility.

This distinction becomes critically important for decision-makers responsible for brand image, team visibility, and client engagement across digital and print platforms. Let’s break down why a professional headshot remains an essential marketing asset, and how investing in the right team—like ours at St Louis Headshots—can elevate your company’s visual identity.

The Psychology of a First Impression

Whether it’s LinkedIn, a company “About Us” page, or a speaker bio on an event program, your headshot introduces you before you even say a word. A professional image conveys confidence, approachability, and competence—while a selfie, no matter how filtered or staged, often suggests the opposite: casual, amateur, and unpolished.

Clients, investors, and colleagues make subconscious judgments within seconds. What do you want those first few seconds to say about you or your team?

Why a Selfie Just Doesn’t Cut It

Here are a few key reasons selfies fall short for professional branding:

Lighting is inconsistent: Natural light isn’t always flattering. Professional studio lighting sculpts features and eliminates distracting shadows.
Angles distort: Selfies often use a wide-angle lens too close to the face, exaggerating features and reducing the natural proportions of your look.
Backgrounds are distracting: Your car, kitchen, or office clutter should never be part of your brand narrative.
Resolution and cropping limitations: Social platforms and print materials require high-resolution images with thoughtful composition—not cropped images from a front-facing camera.

The Value of a Professional Headshot Session

Professional headshot photography is about more than standing in front of a camera. It’s a carefully crafted experience that considers the subject, the brand, and the intended use of the image. At St Louis Headshots, our approach is tailored to ensure your image is not only high-quality but also in alignment with your company’s identity and values.

We provide:

On-brand image styling: We help align the look and feel of the photo with your corporate aesthetic—clean, approachable, bold, creative—whatever your message, we capture it visually.
Private studio with customizable lighting and backgrounds: Whether you need a clean corporate backdrop or a more styled environment with props and branded color, our studio is designed for flexibility.
Location options: Need headshots on-site at your company or in an outdoor setting? No problem. We bring our setup to you.
Coaching during your shoot: Not everyone is comfortable in front of a camera. Our experienced photographers coach you through natural poses and expressions that work for your face and purpose.

Beyond the Headshot: Creating Content That Works for You

A professional headshot is just the beginning. Our clients often repurpose their shoot sessions for additional branded content—video intros, social media clips, testimonial reels, or even drone-captured visuals of their office or workspace.

Our team specializes in repurposing content across media formats and marketing channels, giving you more value from each production session.

Why Work With St Louis Headshots?

At St Louis Headshots, we’re not just photographers—we’re your visual branding partners. We are a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, offering:

Full-service studio and location photo and video
Post-production editing and file delivery in all formats
Licensed drone pilots, including indoor drone operation
Private studio lighting, visual setup, and prop integration
Custom interview studio setups with sound and camera operators
Repurposing content for maximum marketing traction

We’ve been helping businesses, marketing firms, and creative agencies in the St. Louis area since 1982—and we’ve seen every trend come and go. What never changes? The power of a strong first impression through an expertly produced image.

Ready to Ditch the Selfie and Upgrade Your Brand?

Whether you’re updating your leadership team’s headshots, launching a new campaign, or producing video interviews, St Louis Headshots is equipped with the right tools, creative crew, and decades of experience to make your next production flawless.

Let’s create visuals that do the talking for you—the right way.

Contact us today to book your headshot session or to start planning your next media production.

314-913-5626 Mike Haller

Business Card Headshots: Avoid These Common Mistakes

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.

An outdated headshot can create a disconnect between your in-person appearance and your professional materials, reducing trust and credibility.

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

stlouisheadshots@gmail.com

Studio: 4501 Mattis Road St. Louis, MO 63128

How to Use Your Headshot in Legal Marketing: A Strategic Approach

In today’s competitive legal industry, building trust and establishing a professional online presence is essential. One of the most effective ways to do this is through the use of headshots. A well-crafted headshot can communicate your personality, professionalism, and the expertise that potential clients seek when selecting a lawyer or legal team. But how exactly should law firms utilize headshots in their marketing strategy to stand out? Let’s dive into key tips and best practices for using headshots to elevate your legal marketing.

1. Create a Personal Connection with Potential Clients

A great headshot is more than just a photograph; it’s a powerful tool that helps potential clients connect with you on a personal level. It’s often the first visual representation of your brand that clients will encounter, so it’s critical that it reflects the trustworthiness, competence, and approachability that clients desire from their legal representation. In legal marketing, a professional headshot should project confidence, competence, and a sense of reliability.

Whether you are featured on your firm’s website, in client brochures, or on social media platforms like LinkedIn, having a headshot that communicates these traits can make all the difference. A well-lit, high-quality image not only gives off a professional vibe but also helps reassure clients that they are in good hands.

2. Headshots on Website and Landing Pages

For law firms, the website is often the first point of contact for potential clients. Having a strong headshot on your firm’s homepage or individual attorney profiles is an excellent way to humanize your website and create a more welcoming experience. Include a brief bio next to the headshot that highlights your background, legal expertise, and areas of practice.

You can also optimize your landing pages by including a headshot of the attorney associated with that specific practice area. This personal touch helps to build rapport and trust, encouraging visitors to take the next step, whether that’s scheduling a consultation or learning more about your services.

3. Social Media and LinkedIn

Social media platforms like LinkedIn are invaluable for lawyers who want to network, connect with potential clients, and demonstrate their expertise. A polished headshot is essential for creating a memorable profile. It’s important to ensure that your headshot is professional and consistent across all your platforms, from LinkedIn to your firm’s social media accounts. This consistency builds brand recognition and reinforces your professional image online.

Additionally, if you regularly post articles or share content relevant to your practice, adding a professional headshot to your posts or blog posts will increase engagement and improve the chances of your content being shared or read by a broader audience.

4. Email Signature and Client Communications

Another effective use of your headshot in legal marketing is in your email signature. Clients are more likely to remember you if they have a visual reference every time they interact with you via email. Adding a professional headshot to your signature provides a personal touch and reinforces your brand image in every email you send. This also helps establish rapport with clients before they even meet you in person.

5. Marketing Materials and Presentations

Headshots are equally important in printed materials such as brochures, newsletters, business cards, and other collateral that your law firm distributes. Using a consistent headshot across all materials will increase brand recognition and create a cohesive image of your firm’s professionals. Additionally, consider using your headshot in presentations or speaking engagements. Clients and peers alike are more likely to engage with you when they can easily match your face with your name.

6. Video and Virtual Consultations

In an era where virtual consultations and meetings are becoming more common, it’s essential that you have a headshot that translates well in video. This means ensuring the lighting, background, and angles are professional, as your headshot may be used as your primary visual representation during online meetings. A high-quality headshot can also be incorporated into video content such as explainer videos or testimonial videos for your website and social media. These videos can further establish credibility and make clients feel comfortable before meeting you virtually or in person.

St Louis Headshots: Experience You Can Trust

At St Louis Headshots, we understand the importance of creating a lasting, professional impression through high-quality headshots. As a full-service commercial photography and video production company with over 40 years of experience, we specialize in providing top-tier services to businesses, including law firms, throughout the St. Louis area.

We have the expertise and the right equipment to help you create the perfect headshot that aligns with your brand and marketing goals. Our private studio, custom lighting setups, and visual setups ensure that your headshot is tailored to your needs, whether it’s for a website, social media, or printed materials. We also specialize in creating small production setups for interview scenes and promotional videos, and we offer licensed drone pilots for unique and dynamic visual content.

Repurposing your headshot and video branding across various media platforms is a key part of what we do. We are well-versed in all file types and media styles, making sure that your headshots look great in any format, from social media to large-scale prints. Whether you need assistance with photo editing, post-production, or custom studio setups, our team is here to support your marketing efforts and help your law firm stand out.

Let us help you craft the perfect headshot that speaks to your target audience, boosts your credibility, and enhances your marketing efforts. Reach out to St Louis Headshots today, and let’s take your legal marketing to the next level.

314-913-5626

Mike Haller

stlouisheadshots@gmail.com

Studio: 4501 Mattis Road St. Louis, MO 63128

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Headshot: How to Ensure a Professional and Impactful Image for Your Business

Headshots are one of the most important visual representations of a person or a brand. Whether for personal use or corporate branding, a headshot can significantly impact the perception of your business or team. Unfortunately, many individuals and organizations overlook the nuances of a great headshot, leading to missed opportunities for presenting a professional and engaging image.

Solid colors work best, while patterns can draw attention away from the face, which is the focal point of a headshot.

As an experienced videographer and photographer at St. Louis Headshots, I’ve seen firsthand the difference that a well-thought-out headshot can make for businesses, employees, and organizations. In this blog post, we’ll highlight some common mistakes to avoid in your headshot and share tips for ensuring your image makes the best impression possible.

1. Choosing the Wrong Photographer

One of the most common mistakes is opting for a photographer who lacks experience in headshots. A generic photographer may not understand the nuances of lighting, composition, and expression necessary for a professional headshot. A headshot is a powerful tool for branding, so it’s essential to choose someone with specific experience in headshot photography.

At St. Louis Headshots, we specialize in creating headshots that highlight the personality of your brand while maintaining a professional tone. Our photographers are well-versed in the art of headshot photography, ensuring every detail—from lighting to composition—is perfect.

2. Using an Outdated or Low-Quality Image

A headshot that is too old or has poor resolution can detract from the credibility of your brand. In today’s digital world, the standard for professional images has risen, and outdated or low-quality photos can make you appear unprofessional or disconnected from current trends.

Updating your headshot regularly is essential to keep it aligned with your professional image. At St. Louis Headshots, we help businesses and organizations create fresh, high-quality headshots that accurately reflect the current look and feel of your team and brand.

3. Inappropriate Clothing Choices

Your clothing can significantly affect the overall look of your headshot. Avoid clothing that is too casual, trendy, or distracting. Solid colors work best, while patterns can draw attention away from the face, which is the focal point of a headshot.

When preparing for a headshot session with St. Louis Headshots, we provide detailed guidance on how to choose the best attire for your shoot. Our expert photographers will make sure your clothing choices align with the professional image you wish to project.

4. Ignoring the Background

The background of your headshot can either enhance or detract from your image. A cluttered or distracting background can pull attention away from you, making your headshot appear less professional. It’s important to choose a clean, neutral background that complements your appearance.

At St. Louis Headshots, we provide customizable studio setups, allowing us to control the background to match your corporate identity. Whether you need a classic white backdrop or a more creative setting, we can craft the perfect environment for your headshot.

5. Inconsistent Branding

Your headshot should reflect your brand’s identity and be consistent with the rest of your business’s visual assets. If your corporate website, social media profiles, and marketing materials have a specific aesthetic, your headshot should follow suit.

St. Louis Headshots excels at ensuring your headshot is aligned with your brand’s look. We offer custom styling and editing to match your company’s branding guidelines. Our experience working with businesses, marketing firms, and agencies allows us to create a cohesive visual identity across all platforms.

6. Not Considering Expression and Posture

A stiff or forced expression can make a headshot feel uninviting. On the flip side, an overly relaxed or unprofessional posture may leave a negative impression. It’s essential to strike the right balance between approachable and professional.

We understand the importance of expression and posture in conveying the right message. Our photographers guide you throughout the session to ensure you feel comfortable and confident, capturing the perfect expression that matches your professional persona.

7. Skipping Post-Production and Retouching

Even the most well-executed headshot can benefit from post-production. Proper retouching can enhance your image, removing distractions like stray hairs or blemishes, while keeping the photo natural and realistic.

At St. Louis Headshots, we offer expert editing and post-production services, ensuring your final image looks polished and professional. We are experienced in various media formats and can provide you with the right file type to suit your needs, whether for web, print, or social media.

Why Choose St. Louis Headshots for Your Corporate Photography and Video Needs?

St. Louis Headshots is a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company with extensive experience working with businesses, marketing firms, and agencies in the St. Louis area since 1982. We offer both studio and location video and photography, as well as editing, post-production, and licensed drone pilots.

Our team is well-equipped to handle any media requirements, offering customized productions for a wide range of corporate needs. From private studio lighting and setup for small productions to flying specialized drones indoors for unique aerial shots, we have the tools and expertise to bring your vision to life.

We also specialize in repurposing your photography and video branding to help your business gain more traction and visibility. Our private studio setup is ideal for creating interview scenes, with a large enough space to incorporate props and enhance the environment. We can provide sound and camera operators and all the equipment necessary for a flawless video production.

At St. Louis Headshots, our creative crew works closely with you to ensure your image acquisition process is smooth and effective, making your next video or photography project a complete success.

If you’re looking to make a lasting impression with your headshot, video production, or photography services, trust St. Louis Headshots to provide the professional expertise and high-quality results you need.

314-913-5626

Mike Haller

stlouisheadshots@gmail.com

Studio: 4501 Mattis Road St. Louis, MO 63128

Elevating Medical Professionalism: The Importance of Professional Headshots for Physicians

In the healthcare industry, where trust and credibility are paramount, a professional headshot serves as a vital component of a physician’s personal brand. A well-crafted image not only humanizes practitioners but also instills confidence in patients seeking medical care.

The Role of Professional Headshots in Healthcare

A physician’s headshot is often the first point of contact for potential patients. An approachable and professional image can significantly influence a patient’s choice of healthcare provider. According to a study analyzing 500,000 physician profiles, those with professional headshots are more likely to be contacted by prospective patients and employers.

Key Elements of an Effective Medical Headshot

Attire: Wearing a white lab coat over business attire is standard, conveying authority and expertise. For those in residency, the same applies, but you may also consider wearing scrubs if that’s your daily attire.
Expression: A genuine, approachable expression is vital. A smile or a neutral, confident expression can make the professional seem more accessible.
Background: A neutral background is usually a good choice for medical headshots, as it keeps the focus on you. However, many also opt for a clinical setting to provide context.
Lighting: Proper lighting is crucial to highlight the subject’s features and convey professionalism.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overly Busy Backgrounds: A cluttered or distracting background can divert attention away from you. Stick to neutral, unobtrusive backgrounds to keep the focus where it belongs—on you.
Inappropriate Attire: Your attire should be professional and appropriate for your industry. Avoid distracting clothing, and opt for well-fitted, solid-colored outfits.
Stiff Expressions: Forced smiles or overly serious expressions can make you seem insincere. Instead, aim for a natural, approachable expression that reflects your genuine demeanor.

The St. Louis Headshots Advantage

At St. Louis Headshots, we specialize in creating professional images that reflect the dedication and expertise of medical professionals. Our full-service studio and location video and photography services are tailored to meet the unique needs of healthcare providers.

Comprehensive Services

Studio and Location Shoots: Our private studio is equipped for small productions and interview scenes, with ample space to incorporate props to round out your set. We can also conduct shoots at your preferred location, ensuring convenience and comfort.
Editing and Post-Production: Our experienced team handles all aspects of editing and post-production, ensuring your images are polished and professional.
Licensed Drone Pilots: We offer licensed drone services for aerial shots, adding a unique perspective to your visual content.

Customization and Repurposing

We understand that each client has unique requirements. Our team can customize your productions for diverse media needs, ensuring your branding is consistent and impactful across all platforms. We are well-versed in all file types and styles of media and accompanying software, allowing us to repurpose your photography and video branding to gain more traction.

Experience and Expertise

Since 1982, St. Louis Headshots has collaborated with numerous businesses, marketing firms, and agencies in the St. Louis area for their corporate photography and video needs. Our experienced crew and state-of-the-art equipment ensure successful image acquisition, capturing the essence of your professional identity.

Conclusion

Investing in a professional headshot is a strategic decision that can enhance your personal brand and build trust with your patients. At St. Louis Headshots, we are committed to delivering high-quality, customized photography and video services that meet the unique needs of medical professionals. Our comprehensive services, experienced team, and dedication to excellence make us the ideal partner for your next project.

314-913-5626

Mike Haller

stlouisheadshots@gmail.com

What to Expect from Your Photographer on Your Company Head Shot Day

In today’s visual-centric world, a compelling headshot is more than just a photograph; it serves as your brand’s first impression. For decision-makers at businesses and organizations, understanding what to expect from your photographer on headshot day can streamline the process and enhance the final outcome. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure a successful headshot experience for your team.

Subtle adjustments to skin tones, blemishes, and other distractions while maintaining a natural appearance is always our goal.

1. Pre-Shoot Consultation

Before the shoot day, your photographer should engage in a thorough consultation to understand your goals and preferences. This discussion should cover aspects such as:

Purpose of the Headshots: Is it for a corporate website, LinkedIn profiles, marketing materials, or another use?
Desired Style and Tone: Discuss whether you want a formal, casual, or creative approach.
Wardrobe Choices: Your photographer can provide guidelines on what to wear, considering color palettes that complement the setting.

2. Location Setup

Whether in a studio or on location, the environment plays a crucial role in the quality of the headshots. An experienced photographer will assess the space beforehand, ensuring it meets the necessary requirements for lighting, background, and ambiance. Here’s what to expect:

Studio Environment: If using a studio, expect professional lighting setups tailored for headshots, including softboxes and reflectors to achieve flattering results.
Location Shoot: For outdoor or corporate environment shoots, your photographer will scout the area in advance to find the best spots with optimal natural light and appropriate backgrounds.

3. Professional Equipment

A seasoned photographer comes equipped with professional-grade gear to ensure high-quality images. Here are some key components:

Cameras and Lenses: High-resolution cameras paired with lenses designed for portrait photography are essential for capturing detailed images.
Lighting Gear: Proper lighting can transform an average shot into a stunning one. Expect the use of various lighting tools to create the desired mood and enhance your features.
Props and Backdrops: A well-prepared photographer will bring a selection of backdrops and props to help create the right atmosphere for your headshots.

4. Directing and Posing

During the shoot, your photographer will guide you and your team through the posing process. A skilled photographer knows how to bring out the best in each individual by:

Offering Clear Instructions: Expect your photographer to direct you on how to position your body, head, and facial expressions for optimal shots.
Creating a Comfortable Atmosphere: A great photographer will make you feel at ease, which translates into more natural and engaging headshots.

5. Post-Production Process

After the shoot, the photographer’s job continues in the post-production phase, where they enhance your images through editing. This process may include:

Color Correction: Ensuring colors are vibrant and true to life.
Retouching: Subtle adjustments to skin tones, blemishes, and other distractions while maintaining a natural appearance.
File Delivery: You can expect high-resolution images in various formats suitable for web and print use.

6. Understanding Media Requirements

In the realm of corporate photography, knowing how to repurpose images effectively is vital for maximizing your investment. A professional photographer should guide you on how to use your headshots across multiple platforms, ensuring consistency in branding.

Conclusion

At St Louis Headshots, we understand the importance of high-quality headshots for your business. With over 40 years of experience in commercial photography and video production, we have perfected our approach to image acquisition. Our full-service offerings encompass both studio and location video and photography, editing, post-production, and licensed drone services.

Our team specializes in customizing productions to meet diverse media requirements, ensuring your branding achieves maximum traction. Our private studio features advanced lighting setups, capable of accommodating props for more dynamic sets. From private custom interview studios to sound and camera operators, we have everything you need to make your next video production seamless and effective.

Our expertise in all file types and media styles, combined with our ability to fly specialized drones indoors, means we can meet the unique needs of your project. Partner with St Louis Headshots, and let us help you create stunning visuals that represent your brand effectively.

314-913-5626

Easy Headshots for Teams

A high-quality headshot is no longer just a “nice to have”—it’s a critical element of your brand’s visual identity. Whether you’re refreshing your company’s website, building team profiles, or enhancing your LinkedIn presence, cohesive and professional headshots can communicate credibility, professionalism, and unity to your audience.

For decision-makers tasked with arranging headshots for entire teams, the process can seem daunting. However, with the right preparation and a seasoned professional by your side, obtaining high-quality team headshots can be efficient, stress-free, and highly effective in reinforcing your brand’s message.

Why Professional Headshots Matter

Professional headshots are a powerful way to humanize your business. They give potential clients, partners, and even recruits a personal connection to the faces behind your brand. A well-executed headshot conveys confidence, approachability, and professionalism—qualities that are vital in building trust and fostering relationships in the business world.

Cohesive team headshots, where every member is photographed with consistent lighting, background, and style, further enhance your company’s image. They give your website or marketing materials a polished and unified look, creating a sense of organization and attention to detail.

Preparing for Team Headshots: Key Considerations

When arranging headshots for your team, there are a few essential factors to consider to ensure the process is smooth and successful:

1. Consistency is Key

Consistency in headshots is crucial for maintaining a cohesive look across your website or company profiles. This includes:

Background: Decide whether you want a clean white background, a neutral color, or an environment that reflects your company’s office space or brand identity.
Lighting: Ensure the lighting is even and flattering for all team members, avoiding harsh shadows or overly dramatic setups.
Wardrobe Coordination: While not all team members need to dress the same, providing wardrobe guidelines (such as solid colors, business-casual attire) can help create a unified appearance without forcing uniformity.

2. Scheduling with Efficiency in Mind

To minimize disruption to your team’s workflow, plan your headshot session in a way that maximizes efficiency. Grouping employees by department or scheduling blocks of time allows your team to prepare and participate without overwhelming your photographer or affecting productivity.

Consider offering a “prep” space where employees can adjust their attire, fix their hair, or even review their appearance before stepping in front of the camera. Having a mirror and basic grooming tools available can make a significant difference in the final image.

3. Customization for Branding

For businesses with a strong brand identity, customizing the headshot setup to reflect that brand is a strategic move. This could mean incorporating branded colors into the background or capturing the headshots in an environment that is unique to your business. Custom headshot sessions help align team imagery with the overall visual tone of your business, creating a deeper connection between the people and the brand.

The Importance of a Comfortable Environment

Many people find the idea of having their photo taken intimidating. This is why it’s essential to create a relaxed, supportive environment where everyone feels at ease. A professional photographer skilled in corporate photography will not only be able to guide each individual into a flattering pose but also ensure they feel comfortable and confident throughout the session.

An experienced photographer will take the time to engage with each person, providing clear direction and encouragement, which results in more authentic and approachable images.

Post-Production and Delivery

Once your team’s headshots have been captured, the next critical step is the editing and post-production process. This stage ensures that each headshot is refined and polished, with adjustments to lighting, skin tones, and overall image balance. The goal is to present the best possible version of each individual while maintaining the natural look of the photo.

Additionally, it’s important to consider how these images will be delivered. Working with a professional photography company that understands a wide range of file types and media formats ensures that the final headshots will be optimized for use across various platforms, from websites to social media profiles to printed materials.

Trust the Experts at St Louis Headshots

At St Louis Headshots, we understand the importance of delivering high-quality, consistent, and professional headshots for businesses. As a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, we are equipped with the right tools and creative expertise to make your team’s headshots both seamless and successful.

We offer studio and location video and photography, editing, post-production, and licensed drone pilots to meet all your media needs. Our services include repurposing your existing photography and video assets to extend their impact, allowing you to gain more traction with your branding efforts.

With years of experience, our private studio offers custom lighting and setups ideal for small productions or interview scenes. The studio is large enough to incorporate props and backgrounds to enhance your team’s headshots, ensuring a tailored approach for your brand. For more specialized needs, we can provide sound and camera operators, equipment, and even fly our drones indoors for unique productions.

Since 1982, we have partnered with businesses, marketing firms, and agencies across the St. Louis area, delivering top-tier corporate photography and video production services. Whether you need simple headshots or a full-scale media production, St Louis Headshots is your go-to partner for successful image acquisition.

Let us help you create a lasting impression with your next headshot project.

314-913-5626

Mike Haller

stlouisheadshots@gmail.com

Organize and Setup for Your Company’s Headshot Day

When it comes to representing your company, a polished and professional headshot can make all the difference. Whether for a corporate website, LinkedIn profiles, or marketing materials, high-quality headshots are an essential part of your company’s branding strategy. However, organizing and setting up a company-wide headshot day can seem daunting. With careful planning and the right approach, you can ensure a smooth and successful experience that results in high-quality images that meet your company’s needs.

Provide clear wardrobe guidelines to your employees. Encourage them to wear solid colors that align with your company’s branding. Avoid busy patterns or logos that could distract from their faces.

1. Planning Ahead: The Key to Success

Begin by identifying your goals for the headshot session. Consider the image you want to project and how the headshots will be used across your company’s platforms. Once you’ve established your objectives, set a date and time that works for your employees. It’s important to choose a date that minimizes disruption to your daily operations while allowing enough time for each individual to be photographed.

Create a detailed schedule, allotting time slots for each employee to ensure the day runs smoothly. Include buffer time for unforeseen delays. It’s also helpful to inform employees well in advance, providing them with guidelines on what to wear and how to prepare for their headshot.

2. Selecting the Right Location

Choosing the right location is crucial for creating the desired aesthetic for your headshots. You have two main options: an on-site setup or a professional photography studio.

On-Site Setup: If you prefer to have the headshots taken at your office, ensure you have a space that is well-lit, quiet, and free from distractions. A clean, uncluttered background is ideal. You may also want to consider having different background options to match various branding needs.
Professional Studio: For a more controlled environment with specialized lighting and equipment, consider booking a professional photography studio. A studio setting provides consistency in lighting and background, which is particularly useful if you’re photographing a large number of employees over multiple days.

3. The Importance of Professional Equipment and Expertise

Investing in professional photography equipment and an experienced photographer is non-negotiable for achieving high-quality headshots. Professional photographers understand the nuances of lighting, angles, and composition, ensuring each individual is captured at their best.

Professional equipment, including high-resolution cameras, studio lighting, and backdrops, are essential for producing clear, sharp images that reflect your company’s brand.

4. Wardrobe and Styling Considerations

Provide clear wardrobe guidelines to your employees. Encourage them to wear solid colors that align with your company’s branding. Avoid busy patterns or logos that could distract from their faces. For styling, consider offering professional hair and makeup services to ensure everyone looks their best on camera.

5. Ensuring Comfort and Confidence

Creating a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere is key to capturing natural, confident headshots. A skilled photographer will guide each employee through the process, offering direction on poses and expressions. The goal is to capture each individual’s personality while maintaining a cohesive look across all headshots.

6. Post-Production and Image Delivery

Once the photography session is complete, the post-production process begins. This includes selecting the best shots, retouching, and finalizing the images to meet your specifications. Professional editing ensures consistency across all headshots, aligning with your company’s branding and image standards.

Ensure that the final images are delivered in the appropriate formats and resolutions for your intended use, whether for print or digital platforms.

Conclusion: Partnering with St Louis Headshots

At St Louis Headshots, we understand the importance of professional headshots in today’s corporate world. As a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, we bring decades of experience, the right equipment, and a creative crew to every project. Whether you need studio or location photography, editing, post-production, or licensed drone pilots, we have the expertise to customize your productions for a variety of media requirements.

We specialize in repurposing your photography and video branding to gain more traction and are well-versed in all file types and styles of media and accompanying software. Our private studio lighting and visual setup is perfect for small productions and interview scenes, and our studio is large enough to incorporate props to round out your set.

From a private custom interview studio setup to providing sound and camera operators and specialized indoor drone flights, we have everything you need to make your next video production perfect. Since 1982, St Louis Headshots has proudly partnered with businesses, marketing firms, and agencies in the St. Louis area, delivering exceptional corporate photography and video services. Let us help you create the perfect visual representation of your team.

314-913-5626

Mike Haller

stlouisheadshots@gmail.com