Headshot basics

Why is a professional headshot important

First impressions matter in the digital age. Whether it's on your LinkedIn profile or a web page, your photo is the first thing people look at. A confident and approachable headshot helps determine whether someone wants to talk to you in real life.

Why can’t I just take a selfie

I think this anecdote from Jordy Matter illustrates why it’s so important to not just avoid selfies like the plague but also only hire the best possible headshot photographer:

When I first moved to NYC, I was an actor looking for headshots. I chose to go the inexpensive route. Then I met an agent who immediately sent me out to get ‘professional headshots’. "Looks like you used a bottom feeder," the agent said. "Is your career that unimportant to you?" So instead of saving money, I had to pay twice! I didn't realize how limiting my cheap headshots were until I got new ones, and doors started to open.

What makes a headshot photographer special

Have you ever heard the expression “jack of all trades, master of none”? Headshot photography is all I do. You might even say I’m obsessed, but I like to call it passion. I’ve spent countless hours training to help others look and feel their best, and I’m equipped with specialized lights, software, lenses, cameras, and other equipment to highlight your best features. No detail is too small to escape my attention while my focus and commitment ensure that you walk away with an extra bounce in your step.

When should I get a headshot

If you’ve never had a professional headshot taken before, now is a good time! Once you have a professional headshot, get it updated every couple of years or whenever there’s a noticeable change in your appearance.

What if I hate having my picture taken

I know that most people are not comfortable in front of a camera. Neither am I, which is why I choose to be behind it! Yet one of the first things you will hear my clients say is how surprised they were that they actually enjoyed it. My goal is to help you feel comfortable and take an authentic image that makes you feel great about yourself. I will see the best in you and make sure that you and everyone else can see it as well.

What makes a great headshot

A sincere expression. Flattering lighting. The way you hold your head up high. But the key is what your eyes say. Unless you are coming to me for a mugshot, you probably want them to convey confidence and approachability. Naturally, some people ask me to help them portray other sides of their personality or accentuate their personal brand. Whether you want to appear tough-as-nails, slightly mischievous, or what-have-you, my trusty camera and I will capture the look that’s right for you.

Do I need to smile

Not if you don’t want to. But I am pretty funny, so that might be hard to do. 😜

How is a headshot different from a portrait

A headshot is supposed to be a zoom-in on your face, whereas a portrait shows your upper body as well. Portraits do not work well online because when these photos are shrunk down to the size needed for a profile picture, your face becomes too small for people to distinguish your features. If you ever see someone post a full body portrait on LinkedIn, you won’t even be able to tell what color their eyes are.

Why can’t I see the top of people’s heads

This close-cropped style was perfected by the headshot guru (and my mentor) Peter Hurley because it helps focus attention on the features that matter most: your eyes and mouth. Those tell people everything they need to know.

Can I use a headshot for dating sites

For sure! Headshots aren’t just for LinkedIn. You can use them on webpages, online directories, business cards, email signatures, marketing materials, bios, resumes, and more. A client of mine who started using his headshot for dating told me he’s never been on more dates in his life!