5 Tips for Ensuring Quality Headshots

It’s already nerve-wracking sitting in front of the camera, right? But is there something you can do to ensure you at least get the best headshot? Luckily, yes.

There are a few factors that help to make a picture not only look great but even have you enjoy the process. Is it in the way you tilt your head or how you sit? To answer your questions, let’s run through a few important factors.

1. Hire a Professional 

Firstly, if you expect a quality headshot, then it’s worth hiring a professional headshot photographer. Even if you’re working on a budget, you won’t be doing yourself any favours by using an inexperienced amateur that happens to like taking pictures.

The person behind the camera will make the difference between you ending up with a quality picture or not. Does the photographer know the kind of lighting needed to showcase your best features? Does he or she have a high-resolution camera that takes quality pictures?

Always try to go pro. After all, they say ‘go big or go home’ right?

2. Always Stay True to Yourself

Yes, in this day and age it’s all about filters and photoshopping. You want to remove the wrinkles and the spots. But at what cost? After all the airbrushing will we still be able to recognise you? Will YOU still be able to recognise you?

Filters may improve your appearance to some extent but it’s not a magazine cover you’re shooting for. Potential employers want to see the real you and not an altered, photoshopped version. Staying authentic will help your personality show and that’ll help give your image character. If you’re using your picture for professional application, this is essential.

3. Go Easy on the Makeup!

Let’s be clear: Tonnes of makeup doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll end up with a great picture. If anything, you can expect the opposite. Yes, a bit of makeup to conceal a few dark spots & brighten your complexion is wise, but too much will simply give you a tired look. And let’s make sure you use the right amount to avoid looking fake.

4. What Are You Wearing?

Do you have that one shirt you love? The brightly coloured one with the flower print because it makes you stand out, right? While it may suffice at a party, busy prints and designs won’t work for a professional headshot as it makes the image seem too busy.

Keep it simple:

• Rather pick a plain, solid but bold colour.
• Steer clear from the nudes and the creams so you don’t fade & blend into the background.
• Avoid too many accessories. They’ll just end up drawing attention from the actual subject—you.

5. Body Language

What is your body language saying? Do you seem comfortable or uneasy? The way you sit and your posture will determine the quality of your headshot. Here are a few pointers:

• Always sit with your back straight and avoid slouching. This will express confidence.
• Try to look straight into the camera and avoid squinting. Make sure your eyes look alive and engaged.

TIP:  Try smiling with your eyes. Smiling without moving a single muscle in your eyes will make them look flat and boring. And guess what! You’ll look more attractive with a smile.

The list of do’s and don’ts is vital but the most important thing is to make sure you’re comfortable. Always try to be as calm and relaxed as possible before sitting in front of that camera.

Now that you have an idea of what you can do to improve the quality of your headshot, go out there and get it right on the first take!