Tag: publicity headshot

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

Quality Headshots Are Essential for Insurance Agent Marketing

In the competitive world of insurance, first impressions matter more than you might think. Your potential clients are looking for someone they can trust to protect their assets and provide peace of mind. As an insurance agent, it’s crucial to convey professionalism, reliability, and approachability right from the start. One powerful tool to achieve this is a high-quality headshot. In this article, we’ll delve into the importance of quality headshots for insurance agent marketing and why St. Louis Headshots is your go-to full-service professional photography company for creating impactful creative imagery.

When it comes to backgrounds, simple is better. A clean and uncluttered backdrop ensures that you remain the focal point.

The Power of a Professional Headshot

Before we delve into the specifics of headshots for insurance agents, let’s first understand why investing in a professional headshot is essential.

1. First Impressions Count

When a potential client comes across your website, social media profile, or marketing materials, the first thing they notice is your photo. A professional headshot immediately conveys competence, trustworthiness, and attention to detail. It’s the first step in building a strong foundation for trust with your clients.

2. Personal Branding

In the world of insurance, you are not just selling policies; you are selling yourself as a trusted advisor. A high-quality headshot is a critical element of your personal branding. It helps you stand out from the competition and communicates your unique qualities as an insurance agent.

3. Increased Engagement

Studies have shown that content with images receives significantly more engagement than text-only content. A well-crafted headshot draws attention and encourages potential clients to explore your profile further, increasing the chances of them reaching out to you.

4. Consistency Across Platforms

In today’s digital age, your online presence spans various platforms, from your website to social media, and even email signatures. A professional headshot ensures consistency across all these channels, reinforcing your brand identity.

5. Confidence Boost

Knowing that you have a stunning headshot that captures your best self can boost your confidence. When you feel confident, it shows in your interactions with clients and potential leads.

Tailoring Your Headshot to the Insurance Industry

Now that we’ve established the importance of a professional headshot, let’s explore how to tailor it to the insurance industry.

1. Dress for Success

Your attire should reflect your professionalism and industry standards. Opt for a well-fitted suit, blouse, or business attire that aligns with your brand’s image. Neutral colors like navy, gray, or white work well, and avoid busy patterns or flashy accessories that can distract from your face.

2. Natural Lighting and Backgrounds

Natural lighting can do wonders for your headshot. It creates a soft, flattering look that enhances your features. Consider shooting outdoors or near a window to make the most of natural light. When it comes to backgrounds, simple is better. A clean and uncluttered backdrop ensures that you remain the focal point.

3. Express Confidence and Approachability

Your facial expression plays a crucial role in conveying your personality. Aim for a warm, approachable smile that radiates confidence. Confidence in your headshot translates to confidence in your services.

4. Professional Hair and Makeup

Consider getting your hair and makeup done professionally before your photoshoot. This can help you look your best and feel more confident during the session. For men, grooming and a fresh haircut can make a significant difference.

5. Posture and Body Language

Pay attention to your posture and body language. Stand or sit up straight to exude professionalism and confidence. Avoid slouching or awkward poses that may convey discomfort.

Why Choose St. Louis Headshots

When it comes to obtaining a top-tier headshot for your insurance agent marketing, St. Louis Headshots is your ideal partner. Our years of experience as a full-service professional photography company make us the go-to choice for creating impactful creative imagery.

Full-Service Studio and Location Photography

Whether you prefer the controlled environment of a studio or a natural outdoor setting, we’ve got you covered. Our studio is equipped with state-of-the-art photography equipment, ensuring that we capture every detail flawlessly. If you prefer a location shoot, we have the expertise to make the most of any setting, whether it’s your office or a scenic outdoor spot.

Image Editing Expertise

Creating a high-quality headshot doesn’t end at the photoshoot. Our skilled team of image editors is well-versed in enhancing and retouching photographs to ensure you look your absolute best. We understand the balance between natural and polished, making your headshot both authentic and professional.

Video Production

In addition to headshots, we offer video production services. Video is a dynamic way to connect with your audience, and we have the equipment and creative crew to produce engaging video content that aligns with your branding.

Customization for Diverse Creative Needs

We understand that insurance agents have diverse marketing needs. Whether you require headshots for your website, social media profiles, marketing materials, or even video testimonials, we can customize our services to meet your specific requirements.

Repurposing for Maximum Traction

Repurposing your photography and video productions can be a game-changer in your marketing strategy. Our team can adapt and repurpose your content across various platforms, maximizing its reach and impact.

Expertise in All File Types and Styles of Media

In today’s digital landscape, different platforms may require various file formats and styles. We are well-versed in all file types and media styles, ensuring that your content is optimized for each platform and device.

Experienced Creative Crew

Our experienced photographers, videographers, and producers work together seamlessly to create the perfect photography service for your needs. Whether you’re looking for traditional headshots, lifestyle shots, or promotional videos, our team has the expertise to bring your vision to life.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Insurance Agent Marketing with St. Louis Headshots

As a full-service photo creation company, St. Louis Headshots has worked with many businesses and organizations in the St. Louis area to create their branding photography. We have experienced photographers, videographers, and producers to create whatever photography service is needed.

Investing in a quality headshot is an investment in your success as an insurance agent. It’s the first step in building trust and making a lasting impression on potential clients. When you choose St. Louis Headshots, you’re choosing a partner with a proven track record of delivering outstanding results.

Don’t settle for mediocre headshots that blend in with the crowd. Elevate your insurance agent marketing with St. Louis Headshots and experience the difference that professional photography can make. Contact us today to schedule your session and take the first step toward building a powerful personal brand that sets you apart in the competitive insurance industry.

Are you ready to make a lasting impression with a professional headshot? Contact St. Louis Headshots today and let us help you shine in the insurance industry.

314-913-5626

Mike Haller

stlouisheadshots@gmail.com

We can shoot multiple employee headshots at your business location.

If you’re like most businesses, you probably don’t have much space beyond where your desk is located. What’s more, taking employee headshots at the office might be a bit awkward for everyone involved. That’s why we offer on-location corporate photography services to help businesses get those essential employee images taken outside of the office walls. If you need to shoot headshots of your employees at your business location, we can come to you and make it easy. We have various packages with different coverage areas and types of images, so you can choose what works best for your company.

Shooting headshots at your company’s space may seem like a strange choice, but there are many benefits to doing so. This is especially true if you don’t have much room at your office, or if taking the images outside could pose a safety risk to your employees. Here are some of the top benefits to shooting on location at your business. Employee comfort level – If you’re looking for employees to be relaxed and candid, having them shoot headshots in a space they’re used to will help. They’ll be more relaxed and comfortable in their normal surroundings, which will show in the images. Employee privacy – If you’re worried about confidentiality, you don’t have to worry about it when you shoot headshots at your company. You can keep things quiet by closing your office doors and shooting the images privately, without anyone else knowing what’s going on. Privacy and security concerns – If there are security concerns or privacy issues with taking headshots outside, you don’t have to worry about them when shooting on location at your company. You can close your office doors and shoot the images privately.

How to get the most out of your headshot session?

Whether you’re shooting one image or 10, there are a few things you can do to make sure you get the most out of your headshot session. First, think about what types of images you need and the best way to get them. Are you looking for a headshot of each member of your team? Do you need a variety of headshots with different backgrounds? Next, think about your employees’ schedules and how you can best work around them. Are there certain times of the week when everyone’s most available? Can you block off a certain amount of time for each person? Finally, think about what setting will work best for each image you want. Do you want to keep it simple and straightforward with a clean background? Do you want to add some flair to your headshots and take them somewhere interesting?

Mike Haller
Mikeh@hallerconcepts.com
314-913-5626

Business Portraits and Headshots

Executive, corporate or business headshots or corporate portraits are photos made of staff members, usually head and shoulders but sometimes half-body or three-quarter-body shots, generally made for company websites, internal newsletters, trade publications, public relations, marketing and sometimes advertising. Our photography is created at our studio or at your location.

For multiples and groups of headshots, we can bring our studio strobes and backdrops to your place of business. This way we can be on your employee’s schedule instead of the other way around. It is all done at your location usually in a conference room or like space.

We enjoy being a medical, biotech and science photographers. We can shoot wherever a client might need science photography made for their research, lab, pharmaceutical, educational, diagnostic equipment manufacturing or other medical type of company.

Mike Haller
314-913-5626
4501 Mattis Road
St Louis, Missouri
stlouisheadshots@gmail.com

Executive Portraits – St Louis Corporate Photography and Video

If you are looking for corporate portraiture, we create clean, well-lit studio and environmental portraits for your company’s media and web sites; in office, studio and outdoor settings. Corporate head shots should distinguish the corporate leadership, so their portraits don’t look like your competitor’s portraits. There is a range of options that we can draw from to distinguish your leadership.  We can also shoot groups at your location.

Each headshot photography session is an individual experience in creating the best possible photo for your needs: we will help you choose the right clothing and look for your head shots based on who you are, what you do, and what you need the photos for.

Often we are hired as a St Louis event photographer. That is where I am hired to photograph a special corporate or business occurrence like an awards dinner, annual company party, annual conference, ground breakings and more. I work as a photojournalist would, documenting what happens in an unobtrusive style with group shots and detail pictures/signage images mixed in. It is very important to me to not distract from your company’s event as I work to photograph it. We also have all the experience and equipment to shoot video of your event or media communications.

Mike Haller
314-913-5626
4501 Mattis Road
St Louis, Missouri

stlouisheadshots@gmail.com

Covid-Safe Business Portraits and Headshots for St Louis

Coronavirus Photoshoot Protocols
Our new coronavirus safe photo session policies will apply to all sessions for the foreseeable future. And, they will continue to evolve as state and CDC suggestions and policies dictate. All equipment will be wiped down with sanitizing solution prior to client’s arrival. It will also be wiped down in between clients.

Photographer, make-up artist and assistant will wear a mask at all times
Client will wear a mask prior to and immediately following sessions.  A no-touch policy will be in effect, which means no handshakes. And, gloves will be used for any adjusting of our clients’ hair, makeup or clothing.  However, most posing and adjustments will be directed without any contact.

Client will not touch any equipment at any time.  Photographer, crew and subject will wash their hands or use hand sanitizer upon arrival and every hour. We will provide hand sanitizer.

Mike Haller
314-913-5626
4501 Mattis Road
St Louis, Missouri

stlouisheadshots@gmail.com

St Louis Headshots | Professional and Social Media Photographs

You as a person are definitely a part of your company’s image, no matter the size of your professional entity. As a business professional, particularly the owner, your face must be a part of the brand. And if your face must be seen by the public, you want the best representation of yourself possible.

When it comes to having a photo of yourself uploaded on your personal social media accounts, LinkedIn profile, on your website, or across any other marketing literature, you want a head shot that makes you shine. Invest in a professional head shot that gives off a professional first impression and therefore makes your brand stronger.

Mike Haller
314-913-5626
4501 Mattis Road
St Louis, Missouri

stlouisheadshots@gmail.com

St Louis Headshots | Corporate Images

A great headshot is the best way to market yourself in business or as an actor, actress, musician, or entertainer. Your great headshot is your first impression and it should be an organic headshot: a photo of your most natural self, looking relaxed, confident, and in control of your career.

Professional Corporate Headshots for Business and Social Media.

Since 1982 we have been taking the best headshots in the St Louis area. Each headshot photography session is an individual experience in creating the best possible photo for your needs: we will help you choose the right clothing and look for your headshots based on who you are, what you do, what you need the photos for, and coach you in poses and smiles.

If you need great staff headshots or the best corporate headshots in St Louis, you’ve come to the right place. Organic Headshots provides great professional head shots in St Louis: Lawyer headshots, attorney headshots, entrepreneur headshots, realtor headshots, finance headshots, and executive head shots for any industry.

Mike Haller
314-892-1233
4501 Mattis Road 63128
St Louis Headshot Photographer
St Louis, Missouri, USA | Headshot Photographers
stlouisheadshots@gmail.com