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An outdated headshot can create a disconnect between your in-person appearance and your professional materials, reducing trust and credibility.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 Using an Outdated Headshot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 An outdated headshot can create a disconnect between your in-person appearance and your professional materials, reducing trust and credibility.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!
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.
In the healthcare industry, where trust and credibility are paramount, a professional headshot serves as a vital component of a physician’s personal brand. A well-crafted image not only humanizes practitioners but also instills confidence in patients seeking medical care.
The Role of Professional Headshots in Healthcare
A physician’s headshot is often the first point of contact for potential patients. An approachable and professional image can significantly influence a patient’s choice of healthcare provider. According to a study analyzing 500,000 physician profiles, those with professional headshots are more likely to be contacted by prospective patients and employers.
Key Elements of an Effective Medical Headshot
Attire: Wearing a white lab coat over business attire is standard, conveying authority and expertise. For those in residency, the same applies, but you may also consider wearing scrubs if that’s your daily attire.
Expression: A genuine, approachable expression is vital. A smile or a neutral, confident expression can make the professional seem more accessible.
Background: A neutral background is usually a good choice for medical headshots, as it keeps the focus on you. However, many also opt for a clinical setting to provide context.
Lighting: Proper lighting is crucial to highlight the subject’s features and convey professionalism.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overly Busy Backgrounds: A cluttered or distracting background can divert attention away from you. Stick to neutral, unobtrusive backgrounds to keep the focus where it belongs—on you.
Inappropriate Attire: Your attire should be professional and appropriate for your industry. Avoid distracting clothing, and opt for well-fitted, solid-colored outfits.
Stiff Expressions: Forced smiles or overly serious expressions can make you seem insincere. Instead, aim for a natural, approachable expression that reflects your genuine demeanor.
The St. Louis Headshots Advantage
At St. Louis Headshots, we specialize in creating professional images that reflect the dedication and expertise of medical professionals. Our full-service studio and location video and photography services are tailored to meet the unique needs of healthcare providers.
Comprehensive Services
Studio and Location Shoots: Our private studio is equipped for small productions and interview scenes, with ample space to incorporate props to round out your set. We can also conduct shoots at your preferred location, ensuring convenience and comfort.
Editing and Post-Production: Our experienced team handles all aspects of editing and post-production, ensuring your images are polished and professional.
Licensed Drone Pilots: We offer licensed drone services for aerial shots, adding a unique perspective to your visual content.
Customization and Repurposing
We understand that each client has unique requirements. Our team can customize your productions for diverse media needs, ensuring your branding is consistent and impactful across all platforms. We are well-versed in all file types and styles of media and accompanying software, allowing us to repurpose your photography and video branding to gain more traction.
Experience and Expertise
Since 1982, St. Louis Headshots has collaborated with numerous businesses, marketing firms, and agencies in the St. Louis area for their corporate photography and video needs. Our experienced crew and state-of-the-art equipment ensure successful image acquisition, capturing the essence of your professional identity.
Conclusion
Investing in a professional headshot is a strategic decision that can enhance your personal brand and build trust with your patients. At St. Louis Headshots, we are committed to delivering high-quality, customized photography and video services that meet the unique needs of medical professionals. Our comprehensive services, experienced team, and dedication to excellence make us the ideal partner for your next project.
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.
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
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.
Here are Professional Photographer Tips to get Ready for your Company Headshots Photo shoot:
Wear clothing that is professional and appropriate for your brand.
Choose a wardrobe with colors that complement your skin tone.
Make sure your hair is freshly styled and your makeup is perfect.
Wear minimal jewelry and accessories.
Wear solid colors and avoid bold patterns.
Make sure your outfit is wrinkle-free.
Bring a few different sets of clothing to get a variety of looks.
Bring a few props that can be used to add another dimension to your headshot.
Choose a location that is appropriate for your brand.
Make sure you have a good night’s sleep before your session.
Have fun with it and don’t be afraid to express your personality.
Take advantage of our FREE wardrobe consultation by calling (314) 913-5626.
Outfits for Photoshoots
Ensuring Garments Fit Appropriately
Prior to your headshot photo session, please try on any clothing you plan to wear. I have often observed that the fit is (too small or too large), resulting in wrinkles that must be clamped. Avoid unsightly popped buttons! For the gentlemen, please make sure you are familiar with tying your tie in an aesthetically pleasing triangle before arriving.
When it comes to a photoshoot, what you wear is fundamental, but so is knowing what not to wear. Your attire will affect your personal brand, so make sure your clothing fits correctly before the session. Oversized or undersized garments (including buttons popping) won’t convey the right message.
Iron your Garments
Send your photo shoot outfits to the cleaners, or else use an iron. Digital cameras that are of professional caliber are able to pick up even the smallest details – the lenses are incredibly precise, so it’s best for you to avoid a crumpled appearance. Men, make sure to press your collars and ensure that the button at the neck is done up.
Have Clothes Hanging Ready
Bringing garments on hangers is recommended to make it easier to put away after your move.
For certain shoots, I have encountered clients taking their wardrobe out of their purse, having it all scrunched up. This is not recommended as it can result in a photograph with wrinkled clothing! It’s important to remember that your portraits are an investment and having neat, wrinkle-free garments for your headshots will make you look your best!
Cut Out Lint
It is essential to pay attention to lint or pet fur prior to your headshot session. Dark clothing should be a particular focus, as lint can be very visible. To ensure the best results, be sure to remove any lint or pet fur and cover clothing with a garment bag before arriving. Additionally, it is important to be aware of any “pilling” on older clothing, as modern digital cameras and professional lighting can emphasize such spots and negatively affect the images.
When preparing for a corporate headshot, ensure that your attire is pressed and lint-free. Business casual is a popular choice but for a small business portrait, small details can make a big difference. A splash of red color can be the eye-catching addition you need to stand out in the competitive online market. It is also important to learn how to properly tie a tie as this can give your image an elevated, professional look. When it comes to clothing for photoshoots, crisp, clean lines and well-pressed attire are key to make sure your photographic investment pays off.
Deciding Whether To Wear Neckwear For Men
The query of whether it is suitable for men to don a tie or not has been asked for many years. The decision of whether to put on a necktie or go without is something that men must consider.
Casual business attire is quite fashionable these days, but the type of business you are in should be taken into consideration. While it may not be suitable for the tech industry, attorneys and bankers should still wear a tie when representing their clients in court. Therefore, I suggest bringing a few different ties in case you want to get photographed for your headshot with and without one. Generally, my customers opt for the tie look as it looks more complete in a small LinkedIn profile image or your website. Make sure to have a red tie available as it will draw attention in a small headshot photo on LinkedIn.
Deciding what to wear for your business headshot
The apparel you select can either make or demolish the representation of your personal image.
For a successful business headshot, it is recommended that darker apparel be chosen as it is slimming. On the other hand, if lighter colors are preferred, they may add the illusion of bulk. What is the most suitable outfit for a professional portrait? Solid hues, especially bright ones, are always captivating. Additionally, a white shirt or blouse can bring out the eyes and teeth. Lastly, if structured shoulders are desired, they can create a neat appearance.
Colors – Dark Garments Create a Slimmer Appearance
The colors you wear should be in harmony with your skin tone. Choose bright, solid hues such as red, royal blue, teal, turquoise, black and navy. White is a great option for a shell or blouse, but it can make your frame look heavier when worn as a jacket or pants. Black is the most flattering. It is recommended to go for a jacket that has a button or closure as it helps form a “V” shape, thus making your figure appear slimmer. For rounder faces, wearing a “V” neck can elongate the neck area and give you a more slender look. Unless you look like Michelle Obama, it is usually better for women to cover their arms.
Wear Apparel with Shoulder Structure
When taking a business headshot, a crisp corporate look is the most professional option. It is best to choose fitted clothing over baggy, however it should not be too tight. This will create the most flattering look in the photo.
The Popularity of White Color Clothing – White Shirts, Blouses and Shells
When you pick an outfit for corporate events, a white shirt (or a white shell for women) will make you look even more cheerful and bring out the whites of your eyes. Additionally, bright colors like red can look great against a dark suit (shell for women, tie for men). Just be aware that sheer fabric may be transparent under studio lights, so you should keep your lingerie in mind when selecting a blouse.
Utilize Apparel with Solid Hues – Professional Headshot Advice – What to wear and what to AVOID wearing
Here are some professional tips for what to wear when getting headshots done: It is best to stick to solid colors since patterns could detract from the face. Logos should also be avoided. Because the focus should be on the eyes in a small headshot, it’s best to keep it simple. Knits, plaids and stripes should also be avoided as they can create a weird effect in digital cameras (a moire pattern which cannot be removed). Consider the background color choice before your photoshoot and coordinate your clothing accordingly. If you are matching your brand colors, a red tie, often satin or shiny, can make a nice addition to the headshot. For more casual businesses, a business shirt or golf shirt can be nice if it is well-pressed. Darker shirts are recommended for men if they are not wearing a jacket and turtlenecks can look particularly good in a headshot. T-shirts, casual sports clothes and jeans with holes should be avoided unless they are being used to make a style statement or for online dating.
When taking digital photos, it is important to keep in mind that highly textured fabrics, plaids, and tightly woven stripes can create moire patterns that cannot be removed with editing. To ensure a successful headshot, you should wear solid colors with a smooth texture. Ties with tight patterns can also cause moire patterns. When selecting an outfit for a business portrait, it is important to stay away from small patterns and opt for clothing with solid colors, as these are the safest bet to avoid moire patterns. It is also important to remember that solid fabrics with a texture can cause moire patterns, so smooth fabrics are the best option. Bringing a few jackets to your photoshoot is a wise choice.
Your Hair Style
One of the most noticeable features of a person is their hair; it frames the face and is often the first thing that people notice when they meet. Hair is also a great way to express personality and style, and can be a reflection of one’s identity. It can be cut, curled, straightened, colored, and styled in many different ways to show off a person’s individual style. Hair is also an important part of health, and a balanced diet, regular brushing and trimming, and proper styling can keep it looking its best.
It is essential to have appropriate hair for professional headshots. Therefore, please make sure to bring a comb or brush, or better yet, visit a hair stylist before the shoot. We can offer advice for makeup and hair stylists if needed. The hair should reflect one’s personality.
When scheduling a business headshot session late in the afternoon, be mindful of the presence of 5 o’clock shadow. Make sure to shave carefully in order to avoid any cuts or patches that might be difficult to edit in post-production. Additionally, be sure to trim your mustache to prevent hairs from curling into your mouth. Furthermore, consider tidying up your eyebrows as well.
Headshots and Haircuts – A Helpful Suggestion: We suggest that you schedule a haircut a few days in advance of your professional photo session. We have observed that hair that is too short may not lay properly, causing it to stick up. Be sure to plan ahead.
Applying Makeup and Doing Nails
For a professional photoshoot, a makeup artist can make a huge difference, especially when it comes to the perfect skin and eyes. False lashes are also a great way to enhance the look. Before the shoot, it’s important to apply your own makeup, making sure to use darker tones than normal, as lighting can often make the subject appear washed out. Additionally, powder should be applied to reduce shine, and lipstick and lipgloss should be used to emphasize one’s smile. Lipstick should be darker than one’s skin tone and eyeliner should be heavier on the outer “V” of the eyes, as using too much eyeliner can make eyes look smaller. Lastly, extra makeup for touch-ups should be brought along, including eyeliner, lipstick, lip gloss, and makeup base to cover any blemishes.
Manicure: For a versatile look, it is suggested to opt for a French manicure or a neutral tone for your nails. This will ensure that your nails will go with whatever you wear, particularly when you have your arms crossed.
Outfits for Photoshoots – Gearing Up for an Impressive Look!
What to Wear & Bring to Your Professional Picture Session**
When selecting clothing for your professional headshot, make sure that it accurately displays your personality type and personal brand. The items you choose should be reflective of the industry you’re in, and they should be comfortable enough to make you feel confident. It’s not necessary to wear designer clothing, but avoid pieces with distracting patterns or jewelry. Your outfit should make you feel powerful and successful in order to project the right image during your headshot session.
Ideas to Consider When Planning a Professional Headshot or Corporate Portrait Session
Tips for the Women
Women should be reminded of certain things in order to stay healthy and happy. Here are a few pointers that can help them out:
• Take time for yourself each day and make sure to prioritize your own wellness.
• Remember to nourish your body with healthy and balanced meals.
• Make sure to get enough rest and sleep so you can remain energized and productive.
• Don’t forget to reach out for help and support when needed.
• Always practice self-care and don’t forget to be kind to yourself.
Bring Your Makeup – Make sure to come ready with your makeup already on, considering there is not going to be enough time to do it during the photo session. Don’t forget to bring extra makeup for any last minute touch ups.
Lipstick – shades a few tones darker than your skin tone are suggested.
Lip gloss– creates a multi-dimensional effect when illuminated by studio lights on your lips
Eyeliner (puts emphasis on the whites of your eyes)
Foundation of makeup powder– Vital – to eliminate the luster created by photo studio lighting.
Jewelry – Make sure to bring multiple pieces of jewelry in order to have options. Going for something small and uncomplicated is usually the way to go. Additionally, make sure to pay attention to the length of the necklace so that it does not clash with the neckline of the outfit (shorter or longer).
Reminders for the Men
Ties – Steer clear of loud designs and small, close patterns for the tie. Opt for a bright red tie made of glossy satin for a great look! (Tying the tie before the photo session can help save time.)
Tops – Opting for shirts in solid colors and white is a good choice.
A Spare Outfit – For a contingency plan to accommodate any additional patterning.
Watches – make sure to decide beforehand if you want to wear a watch in your photo. Give it a clean, as the shine will show up any dust. If your arms are folded, the watch will be sure to be in the picture.
Suggestions for Both Genders
It is important to remember that both men and women can benefit from taking certain measures to ensure their well-being.
For taming your mane, a hairbrush is essential; you may also want to add in some hair clips and a spritz of hair spray.
Lint Brush: Prior to attending, lint should be removed from garments and the clothing should be brought in a bag on hangers.
A selection of outfits on hangers, neatly pressed and lint-free(in a few solid colors – steer clear of knits. Consider colors that will go well with the background hues)
Glasses – It is best to not wear transition glasses, as the studio lighting between indoor and outdoor shoots can cause them to darken. Additionally, it is important to make sure that your glasses are free of any smudges or dust, as our sharp camera lenses will make them more visible, taking away from the focus on your eyes.
In preparation for a business headshot session, one must remember to clean their glasses.
Your attire for a corporate headshot should be something that makes you feel at ease. You don’t have to go for a formal look – something that suits your personality and fits well, especially on the shoulders, is usually the best bet for a professional photograph. Expensive designer clothing isn’t a requirement, but it is important to make sure that the clothes you wear are lint-free, neatly pressed and fit you well. That is the key to ensuring you have a stunning headshot!
As a pro headshot photographer, My best advice s simply relax and come see me. Headshots are a great tool to help you advance your future. We make it fun. Give me a call 314-913-5626 or email me stlouisheadshots@gmail.com
St Louis Headshots 