How to Prepare for Your Professional Headshots - Brooklyn, NY

A professional headshot is a crucial element of personal branding and can significantly impact how you are perceived in the business world. Whether it's for your LinkedIn profile, company website, or marketing materials, a high-quality headshot can convey professionalism, approachability, and confidence. However, there are several common mistakes people make when getting their business headshots taken. Avoiding these pitfalls can help ensure your headshot represents you in the best possible light.

1. Wear Appropriate Clothing

Choosing the right outfit is essential for a professional headshot. Avoid loud patterns, overly casual attire, or clothing that doesn't fit well. Instead, opt for solid colors and professional attire that aligns with your industry. Neutral tones often work best, and adding a pop of color can add interest without being distracting.

2. Pay attention to Grooming and Personal Hygiene

Personal grooming is just as important as your clothing choice. Ensure your hair is neatly styled, facial hair is trimmed, and makeup (if you choose to wear it) is natural and professional. Pay attention to small details like nails and skin. A polished appearance shows that you pay attention to detail and care about your professional image.

3. Choose the Right Background

The background of your headshot should be clean and uncluttered. Busy or distracting backgrounds can take the focus away from you. A plain, neutral background works well for most professional settings. If you choose to have an environmental background, make sure it complements your professional image.

4. Hire a Trusted Professional

While smartphone cameras have come a long way, nothing beats the quality and expertise of a professional photographer. A professional knows how to use lighting, angles, and editing to enhance your features and create a polished final image. Investing in a professional headshot is an investment in your personal brand.

5. Practice Your Poses and Expressions

A headshot should convey your personality and professionalism, not make you look rigid or uncomfortable. Think of the past photos of yourself that you like and practice natural, relaxed poses and facial expressions before your session. During the session, PicMe! photographers will guide you through poses and help you feel at ease, resulting in a headshot that looks genuine and approachable.

6. Plan Ahead

Rushing into a headshot session without proper planning can result in a less-than-ideal photo. Take the time to prepare by choosing your outfit, grooming, and practicing poses. Discuss your goals and preferences with PicMe! ahead of time to ensure the best results.

Preparing for your headshots can help you get the most out of your session. Remember, a professional headshot is more than just a photo; it’s a key component of your personal brand. By paying attention to the details and communicating with the photographer, you can ensure your photo reflects the best version of yourself and makes a positive impression in the business world.

PicMe! Headshots offers one on one professional headshots sessions in two convenient locations in Fort Greene and Bedford Stuyvesant in Brooklyn, NY.