Uncategorized – Page 3 – St Louis Headshots

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

How to Prepare for Your Live Event: A Comprehensive Checklist for Your Photographer and Videographer

Planning a live event is a multifaceted endeavor that requires meticulous preparation, especially when it comes to capturing the event through photography and videography. To ensure your event is immortalized in the best possible light, it’s essential to work closely with your photographer and videographer. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to guide you through the process and guarantee a seamless experience.

Confirm the event schedule, arrival times, parking arrangements, and any necessary permits or credentials required for your photography and videography team.

1. Define Your Objectives

Understand Your Goals

Before the event, clearly outline what you hope to achieve with the photos and videos. Are they for marketing purposes, internal use, social media, or future promotions? Understanding your goals will help your photographer and videographer tailor their approach to meet your specific needs.

Identify Key Moments

List the critical moments that must be captured. This might include speeches, awards, performances, or special guest appearances. Share this list with your photographer and videographer to ensure nothing important is missed.

2. Choose the Right Professionals

Research and Select

Take the time to research and select a photographer and videographer who have experience with live events similar to yours. Review their portfolios to ensure their style aligns with your vision.

Schedule a Consultation

Meet with potential candidates to discuss your event in detail. This is an opportunity to assess their professionalism, creativity, and ability to handle the unique challenges of live event photography and videography.

3. Pre-Event Coordination

Site Visit

Arrange a site visit with your photographer and videographer. This allows them to familiarize themselves with the venue, identify optimal shooting locations, and plan for any potential lighting challenges.

Create a Shot List

Develop a detailed shot list in collaboration with your photographer and videographer. This list should include all essential shots, such as wide-angle shots of the venue, close-ups of speakers, audience reactions, and any specific requests you have.

Confirm Logistics

Ensure all logistical details are ironed out well in advance. Confirm the event schedule, arrival times, parking arrangements, and any necessary permits or credentials required for your photography and videography team.

4. Technical Preparation

Equipment Check

Verify that your photographer and videographer have all the necessary equipment, including backup cameras, lenses, lighting, microphones, and drones if needed. Discuss any specific equipment requirements based on your event’s needs.

Test Run

If possible, conduct a test run or rehearsal. This allows your team to test their equipment, evaluate the lighting, and make any necessary adjustments to ensure optimal results on the day of the event.

5. During the Event

Communication

Maintain open lines of communication throughout the event. Designate a point of contact who can relay any last-minute changes or requests to the photography and videography team.

Flexibility

Live events are dynamic, and things don’t always go as planned. Ensure your photographer and videographer are adaptable and can think on their feet to capture spontaneous moments and adjust to unforeseen circumstances.

6. Post-Event Follow-Up

Review and Feedback

After the event, schedule a review session to go over the captured footage and photos. Provide feedback and discuss any additional editing or post-production requirements.

Deliverables

Confirm the timeline for receiving the final deliverables. Ensure you receive high-quality, edited versions of all agreed-upon photos and videos in the required formats.

At St Louis Headshots, we pride ourselves on being a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company. Our team is equipped with the right equipment and creative crew service experience for successful image acquisition. We offer full-service studio and location video and photography, as well as editing, post-production, and licensed drone pilots.

Our team can customize your productions for diverse types of media requirements, ensuring your branding gains more traction. We are well-versed in all file types, media styles, and accompanying software. Our private studio lighting and visual setup are perfect for small productions and interview scenes, with a large enough space to incorporate props for a well-rounded set.

From private custom interview studio setups to providing sound and camera operators, we have everything you need to make your next video production perfect. We can even fly our specialized drones indoors. As a full-service video and photography production company, St Louis Headshots has worked with many businesses, marketing firms, and agencies in the St. Louis area for their corporate photography and video needs. Let us help you make your next event unforgettable.

314-913-5626

Mike Haller

stlouisheadshots@gmail.com

Why Your LinkedIn Profile Needs a Professional Headshot as an Insurance Executive in St. Louis

In today’s digital age, your LinkedIn profile serves as your online business card, particularly for professionals in the insurance industry. As an insurance executive, your LinkedIn profile is often the first impression you make on potential clients, partners, and employers. A polished, professional headshot can significantly enhance your profile, portraying you as trustworthy, approachable, and competent. Here’s why investing in a professional headshot is crucial for your LinkedIn presence.

1. First Impressions Matter

A professional headshot is your first opportunity to make a positive impression. It communicates your professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to your career. A high-quality image can convey confidence and reliability, essential traits for anyone in the insurance sector. When potential clients or employers see a well-executed headshot, they are more likely to view you as a credible and reliable professional.

2. Enhances Personal Branding

Your LinkedIn profile is a vital component of your personal brand. A professional headshot is a key element of this branding. It helps you stand out in a sea of profiles and gives you a competitive edge. A consistent, polished image across all professional platforms reinforces your brand identity, making you more memorable to those who view your profile.

3. Builds Trust and Credibility

In the insurance industry, trust is paramount. Clients want to know they are working with someone who is trustworthy and professional. A professional headshot can help build this trust. It shows that you take your career seriously and are committed to maintaining a high standard of professionalism. This can be particularly important when dealing with high-value clients or complex insurance products.

4. Reflects Professionalism and Quality

A high-quality headshot reflects your commitment to quality in all aspects of your work. It shows that you are willing to invest in yourself and your career. This attention to detail can translate into how you are perceived in your professional dealings. In an industry where precision and professionalism are crucial, a professional headshot can set you apart.

5. Increases Engagement and Visibility

LinkedIn profiles with professional headshots receive more views and engagement than those without. A well-crafted image can catch the eye of recruiters, potential clients, and business partners, leading to more opportunities and connections. An engaging, professional headshot can make your profile more appealing and increase your visibility within your industry.

Why Choose St Louis Headshots?

At St Louis Headshots, we understand the importance of a professional image. Our experienced team of photographers and video producers specializes in creating high-quality headshots that enhance your professional presence. We offer a full range of services, including studio and location photography, editing, post-production, and licensed drone pilots.

Our state-of-the-art private studio lighting and visual setup are perfect for capturing the ideal headshot, whether for LinkedIn profiles or other professional uses. Our large studio space allows for the incorporation of props to create a well-rounded set, and we can assist with every aspect of your production, from custom interview setups to providing sound and camera operators.

In addition to headshots, St Louis Headshots excels in customizing productions for diverse media requirements, repurposing your photography and video branding to gain more traction. We are well-versed in all file types and media styles, ensuring that your content is delivered in the best possible format.

As a full-service commercial photography and video production company, we have worked with numerous businesses, marketing firms, and agencies in the St. Louis area. Our expertise and commitment to quality make us the perfect partner for your next video or photography project.

Investing in a professional headshot with St Louis Headshots will elevate your LinkedIn profile and showcase your professionalism and dedication to your career. Contact us today to schedule your session and take the first step towards a more polished and professional online presence.

By understanding the impact of a professional headshot and leveraging the expertise of St Louis Headshots, you can enhance your LinkedIn profile and advance your career in the insurance industry. Make the right impression with a professional headshot and let your profile speak volumes about your professionalism and competence.

314-913-5626

Mike Haller

stlouisheadshots@gmail.com

Finding the Right Location for Your Outdoor Headshot in St. Louis, Missouri

In the world of business, your image speaks volumes. Whether you’re an executive, entrepreneur, or a professional aiming to make a mark, your headshot is often the first impression you make. In a bustling city like St. Louis, Missouri, where the landscape is rich with diverse backdrops, choosing the perfect location for your outdoor headshot can elevate your brand and convey the right message to your audience.

Pay attention to the background elements of the location. Look for clean, uncluttered backgrounds that won’t distract from the main focus—you.

Understanding the Importance of Location

The location you choose for your outdoor headshot plays a crucial role in shaping the narrative of your professional image. It not only reflects your personality but also sets the tone for your brand identity. Every element, from the architecture to the natural surroundings, contributes to the overall aesthetic and message conveyed by your headshot.

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Location

1. Brand Identity

Consider your brand’s values, mission, and target audience. The location should align with your brand’s identity and resonate with your intended message. For instance, a sleek and modern architecture backdrop might be suitable for a tech startup, while a lush green park could be more fitting for an eco-friendly brand.

2. Lighting Conditions

Lighting is paramount in photography. Choose a location with ample natural light or opt for a time of day when the light is soft and flattering, such as early morning or late afternoon. Avoid harsh midday sunlight, which can cast unflattering shadows.

3. Background Elements

Pay attention to the background elements of the location. Look for clean, uncluttered backgrounds that won’t distract from the main focus—you. Avoid busy backgrounds or anything that might detract from the professionalism of your headshot.

4. Accessibility

Ensure the location is easily accessible for you and your photographer, especially if you’re transporting equipment or props. Consider factors like parking availability and proximity to amenities.

5. Permits and Permissions

Some locations may require permits for commercial photography. Be sure to obtain any necessary permits or permissions beforehand to avoid any legal issues.

Top Outdoor Headshot Locations in St. Louis

1. Forest Park

With its expansive green spaces, elegant architecture, and picturesque landscapes, Forest Park offers a variety of stunning backdrops for outdoor headshots. From the iconic Grand Basin to the tranquil Japanese Garden, there’s no shortage of scenic spots to capture the perfect shot.

2. Downtown St. Louis

The urban landscape of downtown St. Louis provides a dynamic backdrop for professional headshots. From sleek skyscrapers to historic landmarks like the Gateway Arch, downtown offers a mix of modern and classic settings to suit any brand.

3. Lafayette Square

Lafayette Square boasts charming Victorian-era homes, tree-lined streets, and quaint parks, making it an ideal location for timeless and sophisticated headshots. The neighborhood’s historic charm adds character and elegance to any photograph.

4. Citygarden

For a contemporary and artistic vibe, consider Citygarden—a vibrant urban sculpture park in downtown St. Louis. With its unique art installations, lush landscaping, and architectural features, Citygarden offers a creative and visually stimulating backdrop for headshots.

5. Tower Grove Park

With its vast expanses of greenery, picturesque pavilions, and stunning botanical gardens, Tower Grove Park offers a serene and natural setting for outdoor headshots. The park’s diverse landscapes provide endless possibilities for capturing beautiful and timeless images.

Conclusion

Choosing the right location for your outdoor headshot is essential for crafting a professional image that resonates with your audience. By considering factors such as brand identity, lighting conditions, background elements, accessibility, and permits, you can select a location that enhances your brand and creates a lasting impression.

At St. Louis Headshots, we understand the importance of location in creating impactful headshots for businesses and organizations. As a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, we have the expertise, equipment, and creative crew to bring your vision to life. From studio setups to outdoor shoots, we tailor our services to meet your specific needs and ensure a successful image acquisition process. Contact us today to learn more about how we can elevate your brand through photography and video production.

St. Louis Headshots is a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company with the right equipment and creative crew service experience for successful image acquisition. We offer full-service studio and location video and photography, as well as editing, post-production, and licensed drone pilots. St. Louis Headshots can customize your productions for diverse types of media requirements. Repurposing your photography and video branding to gain more traction is another specialty. We 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. Our studio is large enough to incorporate props to round out your set. We can help with every part of your production from a private custom interview studio setup to providing sound and camera operators to equipment—we have everything to make your next video production perfect. We can even fly our specialized drones indoors. As a full-service video and photography production, St. Louis Headshots has worked with many businesses, marketing firms, and agencies in the St. Louis area for their corporate photography and video.

314-913-5626

Mike Haller

stlouisheadshots@gmail.com

Studio: 4501 Mattis Road St. Louis, MO 63128

The Psychology of Color: Choosing the Right Background for Your Corporate Headshot

In the world of corporate photography, every detail matters. From the lighting to the composition, each element plays a crucial role in conveying the right message to your audience. One such element that often gets overlooked but can have a significant impact is the background color of your corporate headshot.

Whether you’re a financial advisor, lawyer, or CEO, a blue background can help instill confidence in your clients and colleagues.

Understanding the Power of Color

Color psychology is the study of how different colors can evoke emotional responses and influence perceptions. When it comes to corporate headshots, choosing the right background color can help reinforce your brand identity and communicate the desired message to your audience.

Blue: Trust and Professionalism

Blue is often associated with trust, reliability, and professionalism. It conveys a sense of stability and competence, making it an ideal choice for corporate headshots. Whether you’re a financial advisor, lawyer, or CEO, a blue background can help instill confidence in your clients and colleagues.

White: Simplicity and Clarity

White backgrounds are clean, minimalist, and timeless. They symbolize simplicity, purity, and clarity, making them a popular choice for corporate headshots. A white background allows the focus to remain on the subject, without any distractions, making it perfect for industries where transparency and authenticity are valued.

Gray: Balance and Sophistication

Gray is a neutral color that exudes sophistication and professionalism. It strikes a balance between black and white, representing stability and authority. A gray background can add a touch of elegance to your corporate headshot, making it suitable for industries like finance, law, and consulting.

Green: Growth and Renewal

Green is often associated with growth, renewal, and prosperity. It symbolizes harmony, balance, and vitality, making it a refreshing choice for corporate headshots. If you’re in an industry related to sustainability, health, or wellness, a green background can help convey your commitment to environmental stewardship and holistic well-being.

Customizing Your Corporate Headshot

At St Louis Headshots, we understand the importance of choosing the right background color for your corporate headshot. With our expertise in photography and videography, we can help you select the perfect backdrop that aligns with your brand identity and conveys the desired message to your audience.

Our full-service professional commercial photography and video production company offers a range of services, including studio and location shoots, editing, post-production, and licensed drone pilots. Whether you need headshots for your executive team, product photos for your website, or promotional videos for your social media channels, we have the equipment and creative crew to bring your vision to life.

We have worked with many businesses, marketing firms, and agencies in the St. Louis area for their corporate photography and video needs. Let us help you elevate your brand with captivating imagery that leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

Contact St Louis Headshots today to learn more about our services and schedule your corporate headshot session.

St Louis Headshots – Your Partner in Professional Imagery

314-913-5626

Mike Haller

stlouisheadshots@gmail.com

Studio: 4501 Mattis Road St. Louis, MO 63128

Exploring the Diverse World of Headshots: A Comprehensive Guide

Whether you’re a corporate professional, aspiring actor, entrepreneur, or model, your headshot is often the first impression you make on potential clients, employers, or collaborators. At St. Louis Headshots, we understand the significance of a high-quality headshot tailored to your specific needs and industry. Join us as we delve into the diverse world of headshots and discover the myriad styles and purposes they serve.

For actors and actresses, headshots are their calling cards to casting directors and producers. These headshots must convey versatility, personality, and emotion, showcasing the actor’s range and acting abilities.

1. Corporate Headshots: Corporate headshots are the cornerstone of professional branding. They exude competence, reliability, and professionalism, making them essential for company websites, LinkedIn profiles, press releases, and business cards. At St. Louis Headshots, our photographers specialize in capturing the essence of your corporate identity, ensuring your headshot reflects your company’s values and ethos.

2. Actor/Actress Headshots: For actors and actresses, headshots are their calling cards to casting directors and producers. These headshots must convey versatility, personality, and emotion, showcasing the actor’s range and acting abilities. Our team at St. Louis Headshots understands the unique demands of the entertainment industry, providing actors and actresses with headshots that stand out in a competitive market.

3. Model Headshots: Models rely on headshots to showcase their physical attributes and versatility. These headshots often feature various poses, expressions, and angles to highlight the model’s adaptability and marketability. Whether you’re a runway model, commercial model, or fitness model, our photographers at St. Louis Headshots will collaborate with you to create headshots that elevate your portfolio and captivate potential clients.

4. Creative/Artistic Headshots: For artists, musicians, and creatives, headshots serve as a canvas for self-expression and creativity. These headshots may incorporate unconventional lighting, composition, or editing techniques, reflecting the individual’s unique style and personality. At St. Louis Headshots, we embrace creativity and innovation, working closely with our clients to produce headshots that are as artistic as they are impactful.

5. Executive Headshots: Executive headshots are designed to command respect, authority, and professionalism. Whether you’re a CEO, entrepreneur, or senior executive, your headshot should convey leadership and competence. Our photographers at St. Louis Headshots specialize in executive portraits that exude confidence and credibility, ensuring you make a lasting impression in the boardroom and beyond.

6. Personal Branding Headshots: In the age of personal branding, your headshot is more than just a photo—it’s a visual representation of your brand identity. Whether you’re a consultant, influencer, or thought leader, your headshot should reflect your values, expertise, and personality. At St. Louis Headshots, we collaborate with our clients to create headshots that align with their personal brand, helping them stand out in a crowded digital landscape.

Conclusion: In the world of headshots, one size does not fit all. Whether you’re a corporate professional, actor, model, or entrepreneur, your headshot should be as unique and dynamic as you are. At St. Louis Headshots, we specialize in capturing the essence of who you are and what you represent, ensuring your headshot leaves a lasting impression on everyone who sees it. Contact us today to schedule your headshot session and take the first step towards elevating your personal or professional brand.

314-913-5626

Mike Haller

stlouisheadshots@gmail.com

Trends in Conference Photography and Video You Should Know

Conferences are vibrant hubs of knowledge exchange, networking, and innovation. As a photographer and videographer specializing in capturing these dynamic events, staying abreast of emerging trends is essential to providing clients with the most compelling and impactful documentation possible. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the latest trends shaping conference photography and videography, equipping you with valuable insights to elevate your event coverage.

Photographers and videographers play a crucial role in facilitating these experiences by capturing high-quality footage that can be broadcasted in real-time or repurposed for on-demand viewing.

1. Immersive Content Creation

In today’s digital age, conference attendees crave immersive experiences that transport them directly into the heart of the event. To meet this demand, photographers and videographers are increasingly embracing technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and 360-degree video. By capturing panoramic views of conference sessions, exhibitor booths, and networking areas, professionals can offer audiences an unparalleled sense of presence, enhancing engagement and viewer retention.

2. Authentic Storytelling

Gone are the days of sterile, overly posed shots. Modern conference documentation prioritizes authentic storytelling, focusing on capturing genuine moments of interaction, learning, and inspiration. Candid shots of speakers engaging with attendees, spontaneous discussions between participants, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of event preparation all contribute to crafting a narrative that resonates deeply with viewers.

3. Live Streaming and Hybrid Events

With the rise of remote work and virtual connectivity, many conferences now incorporate live streaming and hybrid formats to reach broader audiences. Photographers and videographers play a crucial role in facilitating these experiences by capturing high-quality footage that can be broadcasted in real-time or repurposed for on-demand viewing. By leveraging multi-camera setups and professional audio equipment, professionals can ensure seamless streaming experiences that rival the in-person event.

4. Interactive Multimedia Installations

Innovative conferences are increasingly incorporating interactive multimedia installations to engage attendees and enhance the overall experience. From interactive photo booths and augmented reality exhibits to immersive video projections, these installations offer unique opportunities for photographers and videographers to capture captivating moments that transcend traditional event documentation. By embracing emerging technologies and creative storytelling techniques, professionals can deliver truly memorable visual content.

5. Inclusive Representation

Diversity and inclusion have become central themes in modern conference culture, and visual documentation plays a crucial role in reflecting these values. Photographers and videographers are actively working to ensure that their work represents the full spectrum of conference attendees, including individuals from diverse backgrounds, genders, ages, and abilities. By prioritizing inclusive representation in their imagery, professionals can help foster a more welcoming and equitable conference environment.

6. Environmental Sustainability

As concerns about environmental sustainability continue to grow, conferences are under increasing pressure to minimize their ecological footprint. Photographers and videographers are embracing sustainable practices by opting for energy-efficient equipment, reducing waste through digital file delivery, and offsetting carbon emissions from travel whenever possible. By aligning with environmentally conscious clients and initiatives, professionals can contribute to a more sustainable future for conference documentation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, staying abreast of emerging trends in conference photography and videography is essential for professionals looking to provide clients with the most impactful documentation possible. From immersive content creation and authentic storytelling to live streaming and inclusive representation, these trends are shaping the future of conference documentation in exciting new ways. By embracing innovation and creativity, photographers and videographers can elevate their craft and deliver truly compelling visual content that resonates with audiences worldwide.

As a full-service video and photography production company, St Louis Headshots has worked with many businesses, marketing firms, and agencies in the St. Louis area for their corporate photography and video. Whether you’re hosting a conference, corporate event, or marketing campaign, our experienced team is equipped with the right equipment and creative expertise to ensure your success. Contact us today to learn more about how we can tailor our services to meet your unique needs and objectives.

314-913-5626

Dressing for Success in Your Professional Headshots

Research indicates that our clothing choices convey essential information about our identity, both in the workplace and beyond. What you wear plays a pivotal role in shaping others’ perceptions of your influence, intelligence, and even your financial success. These factors can significantly impact how hiring managers, colleagues, and clients perceive your trustworthiness and reliability.

Simple colors and subtle patterns tend to flatter everyone in professional headshots.

Beyond nailing the perfect pose and portrait style, the clothing you select for your headshots is instrumental in establishing your professional image within your network. Given that most people will encounter your professional headshot before meeting you in person, your wardrobe becomes a vital component in making an outstanding first impression.

If you’re gearing up for an update to your headshots, you might be pondering the question, “What should I wear for professional headshots?” As you prepare for your headshot session, consider these wardrobe tips and tricks to ensure your professional portraits are nothing short of exceptional.

We also offer guidance on how to capture a professional headshot at home with just a smartphone for those seeking to update their professional image without visiting a studio.

Style Tips for Professional Headshots

1. Dress Like Your Industry Leaders

Appropriate attire varies across industries. Lawyers and doctors often opt for formal and conservative clothing, while those in technical or creative roles may embrace a more casual look. When in doubt, take cues from your industry’s leaders or your superiors. Their fashion choices are reliable indicators of what’s suitable for your profession, helping you exude confidence without appearing overly forced.

2. Avoid Excessively Casual Attire

Even if your industry leans toward casual dressing, consider donning more formal attire for your headshots to project confidence and authority. Research suggests that wearing formal clothing can enhance feelings of power and control, positively impacting your posture and presence in photos. Your comfort and confidence behind the camera are reflected in your photos, so choose formal options like suits, ties, and formal blouses to bolster your self-assurance.

3. Feature Multiple Outfits

If your daily interactions involve a diverse range of individuals, tailor your clothing choices to suit each audience. Entrepreneurs, consultants, and salespeople, in particular, often engage with different types of people throughout their day. Rather than attempting to fit all professional scenarios into one outfit for your headshots, opt for multiple photos in various ensembles. This strategy ensures you’re appropriately attired in your professional headshots, no matter the context.

4. Opt for Suit-Inspired Styles

Clothing with traditionally masculine elements, such as trousers, blazers, and dark-hued suit jackets, can significantly influence perceptions of intelligence and competence, especially for individuals in managerial and leadership roles. Studies indicate that applicants wearing blazers and trousers are often seen as more forceful and influential, garnering favor in hiring recommendations for leadership positions.

5. Avoid Worn-Out Clothing

Even beloved clothing items lose their luster over time. Brightly-colored garments and knitted fabrics are particularly susceptible to fading and wear, resulting in signs of pilling after washing. To maintain a polished appearance, opt for newer clothing or “dry clean only” items that resist these telltale signs of wear and tear.

6. Keep Jewelry Simple

Professional headshots should enhance your natural features without distractions. In this regard, opt for simple jewelry, especially if your headshot will focus closely on your face. Ensure necklace pendants are visible, and stick to metallic or gemstone studs for earrings. Dangling earrings and hoops can become entangled in hair and get lost in the photo.

7. Ditch the Undershirt and Ensure a Stiff Collar

In close-cropped headshots like those used for LinkedIn profiles, the area beneath your face is critical. Avoid wearing an undershirt, as white, black, or grey ones can be distracting in a formal headshot. Additionally, ensure your collar remains stiff to prevent a sloppy appearance, especially if you’re not wearing a tie.

What Colors To Wear for Headshots

8. Consider Color Theory

Color choices can profoundly impact moods and perceptions. Red conveys confidence and energy, while navy blue and black exude dominance and authority. Select colors that align with the message you want to convey in your professional headshots.

Dark colors appear formal, dominant, and authoritative.
Light colors make you appear friendly and approachable.
Some bright colors convey confidence and energy.
Muted colors are conservative and less intimidating.
High-contrast combinations, like dark jackets and light shirts, project influence and authority.

9. Stick with Solid Colors

Simple colors and subtle patterns tend to flatter everyone in professional headshots. Bold or busy patterns can distract from your face and create visual interference.

10. Contrast with Your Backdrop and Skin Tone

Choose wardrobe colors that contrast with your backdrop to ensure you stand out. This is especially important for black and white headshots, where a dark top against a dark background can make you look like a disembodied head. Additionally, select colors that contrast with your skin tone, preventing you from appearing nude from afar.

11. Avoid Stereotypical Outfits

Steer clear of attire that might inadvertently make you look like a professional from another field. Avoid white blazers, which can resemble medical coats, and skip the white button-down shirt with a black tie and black suit to avoid resembling a waiter.

How Clothing Should Fit for Professional Headshots

12. Opt for a Higher Neckline

For corporate website headshots, keep in mind that they are typically cropped closely around your head and face. To avoid appearing provocative, opt for tops with higher necklines. Women, in particular, are perceived as more competent when their clothing is not considered provocative or revealing.

13. Choose Tailored Fits

Closely-fitted clothing tends to look cleaner and less distracting in formal or business-casual photos. Ensure that blazers or suit jackets fit snugly around the shoulders and arms, even if they feel slightly tight. Most headshots are taken with unbuttoned jackets, minimizing any concerns about waistlines.

Your choice of attire for your professional headshot session plays a pivotal role in shaping the message conveyed by your photos. However, it’s essential to remember that the quality of your photographer matters just as much. If you’re a St Louis area professional seeking a headshot session, call on us for booking information. Your journey to a captivating professional image starts with us.

314-913-5626

Mike Haller

stlouisheadshots@gmail.com

Studio: 4501 Mattis Road St. Louis, MO 63128