Simple Steps to Plan Headshots for Every Team Member: A Guide for Marketing and Business Decision Makers

Whether your organization is refreshing its website, updating social media profiles, launching a marketing campaign, or creating internal directories, professional headshots unify your brand identity and enhance credibility. But coordinating headshots for an entire team—especially across multiple departments or locations—can be a logistical challenge without a plan.

At St Louis Headshots, we’ve helped hundreds of organizations—from fast-paced startups to established corporations—streamline the headshot process from start to finish. Here’s a proven step-by-step approach to ensure your headshot session is efficient, professional, and yields impactful results.


1. Define Your Brand Style

Before the first camera is turned on, determine the look and tone you want to achieve. Should the headshots feel formal or approachable? Studio backdrop or environmental background? Consistency across images is key for creating a polished and unified team presence.

Pro Tip: Provide visual examples or a style guide to your photography team so they can replicate your vision with precision.


2. Choose the Right Setting

Depending on your team’s size, schedule, and goals, headshots can be done:

  • In-Studio – Controlled lighting, clean backgrounds, and access to props or creative setups.
  • On-Location – At your office or corporate environment, ideal for adding context or convenience.
  • Hybrid – Great for remote teams or executive groups, ensuring consistency while offering flexibility.

We offer private studio sessions as well as mobile setups, complete with backdrops, professional lighting, and camera gear to deliver consistent, high-quality results regardless of location.


3. Create a Scheduling Plan

Avoid workflow disruptions by:

  • Appointing a coordinator on your team.
  • Using scheduling tools or time blocks (e.g., 10–15 minutes per person).
  • Offering multiple time slots, including early morning or lunch-hour sessions.

Efficiency tip: For large teams, stagger photo times and group team members by department or shift.


4. Prepare Your Team

Clear communication reduces no-shows and ensures everyone is photo-ready. Share tips on:

  • What to wear (solid colors, minimal patterns, brand colors when possible).
  • Grooming and appearance (clean, neat hairstyles, light makeup if desired).
  • What to expect (length of session, number of shots, retouching options).

We also provide a preparation guide to make sure your team looks and feels confident in front of the camera.


5. Capture Multiple Expressions and Angles

A single pose may work for a company directory, but versatile businesses need options. We recommend capturing:

  • A classic head-and-shoulders shot.
  • A relaxed, slightly angled pose.
  • A few expressions—approachable smile, confident neutral, and one with personality.

This gives your marketing team multiple looks to work with across platforms—LinkedIn, About pages, newsletters, or promotional materials.


6. Review, Select, and Retouch

Once the session is complete:

  • We offer same-day or next-day proof galleries.
  • Your team can select their favorite shots individually or allow a brand manager to choose.
  • We professionally retouch each selected image—ensuring natural skin tone, clean backgrounds, and polished presentation.

7. Repurpose for Maximum ROI

The best part of investing in high-quality headshots is the long shelf life and broad usage:

  • Email signatures
  • Team bios in pitch decks
  • Zoom or Teams profiles
  • Blog author images
  • Company press releases

We also help clients resize and reformat headshots for every use case—from 4K-resolution portraits to square-crop social profile images.


Why Partner with St Louis Headshots?

At St Louis Headshots, we specialize in delivering premium photography and video solutions that elevate your brand’s image. As a full-service commercial video and photography production company operating since 1982, we’ve worked with businesses, marketing firms, and creative agencies throughout the St. Louis area.

Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Studio & On-Location Services: Whether in our private, prop-ready studio or at your office, we deliver consistent, high-quality results.
  • Expert Creative Crew: Our team includes professional sound and camera operators, lighting specialists, and production coordinators.
  • Advanced Technology: We leverage the latest in AI tools, post-production workflows, and media software to ensure professional-grade output.
  • Drone Photography Capabilities: Need aerial visuals for a corporate video or marketing asset? We are licensed and capable of flying specialized drones—even indoors.
  • Media Repurposing: From photography to video, we help you maximize the impact of your content by reformatting and repackaging it across digital platforms.

Let us handle every detail of your next headshot project—from pre-shoot planning to post-production polish—so your team looks its best and your brand image shines.

Ready to schedule your team’s headshots?
Contact St Louis Headshots today and experience the difference a seasoned, full-service media team makes.

314-913-5626

Mike Haller

stlouisheadshots@gmail.com

Studio: 4501 Mattis Road St. Louis, MO 63128

Simple Ways to Update Your Headshot as You Grow — A Guide for Professionals and Brands

Evolving with Purpose

In a world where first impressions are often made online, your headshot is more than just a photo—it’s a visual handshake. For executives, entrepreneurs, creatives, and entire teams, a professional headshot serves as a cornerstone of your brand identity. But as your career, company, and personal style evolve, your image should evolve with it.

At St Louis Headshots, we specialize in guiding professionals and businesses through this process. Whether you’re rebranding, stepping into a new leadership role, or simply updating your look, here are simple, strategic ways to refresh your headshot so it aligns with who you are today—and where you’re headed tomorrow.


1. Reassess Your Personal Brand

Before stepping in front of the camera, ask yourself: Does my current headshot reflect my role, expertise, and personality? If your business has grown, your audience shifted, or your responsibilities changed, your headshot should convey that evolution.

Tip: Write down three adjectives that describe your current professional image (e.g., approachable, authoritative, creative). Use those words to guide styling, wardrobe, and expression during your session.


2. Update Your Wardrobe to Match Your Industry

A headshot should represent the industry you’re in today—not the one you started in five years ago. A creative director’s look might lean toward stylish and bold, while a financial consultant may opt for polished and conservative.

Tip: Choose wardrobe options that reflect your level of professionalism, but also feel authentic. Avoid trends that quickly date your image.


3. Consider a Change of Setting

A new background can add freshness and context to your headshot. Our St Louis Headshots studio offers clean, customizable backdrops ideal for polished portraits, but we also shoot on location for added storytelling.

Tip: Office environments, industrial textures, or natural lighting outdoors can all subtly reinforce your brand without distracting from your face.


4. Experiment with Expression and Angles

Your expression tells a story. A confident smile projects leadership. A thoughtful gaze may communicate creativity or focus. As you grow, your confidence will too—your new headshot should reflect that.

Tip: Work with a professional who knows how to coach authentic expressions. Subtle changes in head tilt, eye direction, and posture can completely change the tone of the image.


5. Update Regularly—Not Just When You “Have To”

Waiting until you change jobs or launch a new website can leave your online presence looking dated. Instead, set a regular interval (every 1–2 years) to refresh your image. That way, you’re always putting your best foot—and face—forward.

Tip: Schedule your headshot update around other marketing initiatives like brand refreshes, team announcements, or updated LinkedIn profiles.


6. Incorporate Brand Cohesion Across Team Members

For companies, consistency across team headshots builds trust and credibility. If your team has grown or some images look outdated, it’s time to unify your visual presentation with fresh, brand-aligned portraits.

Tip: Use the same photographer, lighting setup, and general style guide across all headshots to maintain brand uniformity.


Why Professionals and Brands Trust St Louis Headshots for Headshot Updates

At St Louis Headshots, we understand that a great headshot captures more than a face—it captures identity, confidence, and purpose. We’ve helped countless professionals and companies across the St. Louis region refresh their image with portraits that evolve alongside them.

We offer full-service studio and location video and photography, editing and post-production, and licensed drone pilots for creative visuals. Our private studio includes custom lighting setups and space for props or environmental elements to create engaging, brand-specific visuals.

Our expertise doesn’t stop at the shutter. We’re experienced in repurposing your media assets, integrating headshots seamlessly into videos, websites, and print materials. We use the latest Artificial Intelligence tools to optimize, organize, and stylize your content for maximum reach and impact.

From providing professional sound and camera operators, to flying specialized drones indoors for unique corporate video environments, we support every step of your production with the right crew and tools. Since 1982, St Louis Headshots has partnered with businesses, marketing firms, and creative agencies across the St. Louis area to craft images that not only look sharp—but tell a story.


Is it time to update your headshot?
Reach out to St Louis Headshots to schedule your next session and ensure your image evolves as confidently as your brand.

314-913-5626

Mike Haller

stlouisheadshots@gmail.com

Studio: 4501 Mattis Road St. Louis, MO 63128

Making the Most of Your Headshot Session: A Professional’s Guide to Success

In today’s digital-driven world, a professional headshot is more than just a nice-to-have — it’s a critical component of your brand identity. Whether you’re updating your executive team’s profiles, refreshing marketing collateral, or preparing for a major campaign, your headshot session is an important investment. At St Louis Headshots, we know that preparation, the right environment, and expert guidance make all the difference.

Here’s how businesses and organizations can maximize the value of their headshot sessions — and why working with experienced professionals ensures lasting impact.

1. Clarify Your Branding Goals

Before your headshot session begins, it’s important to align your team on the overall branding direction. Are you aiming for a formal, corporate look? A relaxed, approachable style? Or perhaps a vibrant, creative tone? Consistency is key for branding — and conveying the right visual message helps establish trust and professionalism with your clients, stakeholders, and future hires.

Pro Tip: Share your website, LinkedIn profiles, or marketing materials with your photography team ahead of time. At St Louis Headshots, we use this information to tailor lighting, backgrounds, posing, and styling recommendations to match your brand seamlessly.

2. Choose the Right Wardrobe

Wardrobe choices play a major role in the effectiveness of a headshot. Solid colors work best, avoiding busy patterns that can distract. Darker tones often convey authority and confidence, while lighter shades can feel welcoming and open. It’s wise to avoid flashy jewelry or accessories that might pull focus away from the face.

Pro Tip: Bring a few options. At St Louis Headshots, we encourage clients to bring two or three wardrobe choices so we can adjust based on lighting, backdrop, and the tone you’re aiming for.

3. Prepare Your Team

If you are coordinating a group session for your company, communication is critical. Send out guidelines in advance regarding attire, grooming, and arrival times. If possible, schedule short touch-up opportunities for hair and makeup to ensure everyone looks and feels their best.

Pro Tip: At St Louis Headshots, we can help organize your session flow so it’s efficient, stress-free, and professional, even for large teams.

4. Trust Professional Direction

A seasoned headshot photographer understands how to coach poses, manage angles, and capture authentic expressions. It’s our job to make sure everyone feels comfortable and confident in front of the camera — and it shows in the final images. Good headshots don’t just happen; they are built through experience, careful lighting, and attentive direction.

Pro Tip: Our sessions are interactive. We guide clients through positioning, make subtle adjustments, and review shots together to ensure satisfaction before wrapping up.

5. Think About How You’ll Use the Images

High-quality headshots aren’t just for LinkedIn anymore. Today, professional portraits are used across a range of platforms: company websites, marketing brochures, press releases, speaking engagements, and internal communications. Think about all the places your images will appear, and communicate those needs up front.

Pro Tip: St Louis Headshots provides retouched, high-resolution images optimized for print and digital use, and we can assist with resizing, cropping, and formatting to meet any specific media requirements.


Why Work with St Louis Headshots?

At St Louis Headshots, we are more than just photographers — we are your creative partners. As a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, we bring the right equipment, the creative crew, and the expertise to ensure successful image acquisition every time.

We offer full-service studio and location video and photography, editing, post-production, and licensed drone pilots. Our capabilities include customized productions for diverse media needs, repurposing photography and video branding for greater marketing traction, and mastering all file types and styles with ease.

Using the latest advancements in Artificial Intelligence alongside traditional craft, we ensure your media services stay cutting-edge. Our private studio lighting and visual setups are ideal for small productions and interview scenes, while our spacious studio can incorporate props and custom set designs to elevate your imagery.

From creating private custom interview studio setups to providing experienced sound and camera operators and specialized equipment — including the ability to fly drones indoors — we are prepared to handle every element of your production.

Since 1982, St Louis Headshots has proudly partnered with businesses, marketing firms, and creative agencies throughout the St. Louis area to produce standout marketing photography and video. We look forward to helping you create your next powerful first impression.

314-913-5626

Mike Haller

stlouisheadshots@gmail.com

Studio: 4501 Mattis Road St. Louis, MO 63128

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.

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.

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

  1. 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.
  2. Expression: A genuine, approachable expression is vital. A smile or a neutral, confident expression can make the professional seem more accessible.
  3. 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.
  4. 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