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5 Tips to Prepare for Your Headshots

Writer's picture: Ashli ColligeAshli Collige

Updated: Jan 12, 2023






So you’re planning on freshening up your headshots and you want to make sure you get the most out of your session. There are a few tips that can help ease you into your shoot and set you up for success. Regardless if you are excited about your session date or feeling a little nervous to get behind the camera, you can take advantage of the details below to make sure you are happy with the final results.


Tip #1

HAVE AN ON-PHONE CONSULTATION WITH YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER


This is a great place to start building a foundation for a successful shoot. This consultation should go over a few key details like location, your expectations, package details, and your overall vision for your photos. Your location should be somewhere that reflects your profession. If you are in real estate, choose outdoors or a place that shows off the perks of your city. If you are a lawyer, doing an indoor shoot might be more reasonable. It is up to you and your preference but you should consider this detail. Also, make sure that you have an understanding of what is included in your package (time frame, amount of photos, etc.).


Tip #2

PLAN THE DAY


There is nothing worse than showing up to a headshot session and feeling rushed. Whether you are running late to the shoot or you have an obligation right after the shoot, both can throw you off your game. It’s good advice to prepare your day around your headshot session. To be blunt, make sure you are a few minutes early so you and your photographer can chat in person, and ensure that you don’t schedule anything directly after your session, just in case you go over time. You want this day to be as stress-free as possible. These pictures will be reflective of you and your business for the next year (or years) and what the session produces will be what marks a lasting impression on future clients.


Tip #3

TIME OF DAY


This tip is specifically targeted at outdoor shoots. It’s not the best idea to take shots midday. Any photographer telling you otherwise is not setting you up for their best-delivered final product. Photographers can work magic behind a lens and within photoshop, but our biggest obstacle is a beaming sun glaring down over our clients. It’s harsh, your squinting, the shadows it cast on your face will make you look 10x older and it limits the different spaces you can use at your outdoor location. Early morning and the hour before sunset are your best options for success. Please take this tip. You will not regret it!



Tip #4

REST AND HYDRATION


Being well-rested and hydrated will ensure that you are looking your best! It’s just common sense that a lack of sleep is going to age us visually. So take the time to hit your pillow a couple of hours early for at least two nights before your shoot. Also, dehydration is a leading cause of poor-looking skin, so make sure you are drinking all that extra water before your big day.


Tip #5

DRESS COMFORTABLY - ACCESSORIZE SIMPLY


The way we feel in our clothes often impacts our attitude. I want you to think about a time in your life when you didn’t feel good about what you were wearing. Now I want you to think about the facial expressions you were most likely making throughout that day. It would help if you felt good in your outfit. If you’re uncomfortable, it will show up in your pictures. Don’t wait until the night before to go outfit shopping. Take a little time to prepare yourself at least a few days before your session.


Talk to your photographer about your outfit. I encourage my clients to shoot me pictures of what they are wearing and I am more than happy to dish out pointers if needed. Ideally, you want to pick colors that are darker than your skin tone. (Nix the white unless you have a business jacket you are wearing over it.) If all else fails and you are feeling a little unsure of your outfit selection, bring a few with you. Just make sure to let your photographer know beforehand so they can plan your shoot accordingly.


Your clothes should fit comfortably, you should feel confident in them, and your jewelry should be minimal. I’m all for a statement piece but there is a way to pull it off without it looking “overdone”. If you have a statement necklace make sure you aren’t wearing dangling earrings. If you have a pair of statement earrings, limit the necklace to a threaded piece or nothing at all.



Ultimately, your headshot is going to be plastered on every advertisement and business card you hand out to your clients. Put your best foot forward and ensure you are taking the time to assess and apply all the tips above. As photographers, we are here to help you look your best. We want to see you win! (We don’t mind seeing our work being used in great ways, either.) Lastly, and most importantly, have fun with it. This is your business and brand that you are promoting. You are worth a little extra effort to get every shot right!


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Tampa Bay real estate photographer offering high-quality and affordable photo sessions to agents in the area. Reliable. Easy to contact. Fast turn overs. 24 hour bookings.

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