Professional Headshot Tips and What to Avoid
Why Updating Your Professional Headshot Matters
Chances are you’re here because you need a headshot—or the one you have could use a little refresh. A good rule of thumb? Update your headshot every 2-3 years. Unlike brand photos for your business, which should be refreshed more frequently (1-2 times a year), your headshot is a staple of your professional image. It’s used across platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, your email signature, and your website.
Because headshots are key to creating brand recognition, it’s not a great idea to change them multiple times throughout the year. Instead, think of your headshot as a constant in your professional life. Over time, though, your appearance changes—your wardrobe evolves, hairstyles shift—and it’s important to present a relevant, up-to-date image to your audience.
If you’re preparing for a headshot session, here are some essential do’s and don’ts to set you up for success.
DO: Tips for Headshot Success
✔️ Dress the Part: Choose an outfit that aligns with your industry and professional role. Think about what you’d wear to an important job interview. Solid colors photograph best, keeping the focus on your face and expression.
✔️ Practice Your Poses: Before your session, spend a few minutes in front of the mirror experimenting with angles. We all have a favorite side: try left profile, straight on, and right profile.
✔️ Style Your Hair: Arrive with your hair neat and styled the way you’d like it to appear in your final headshot.
✔️ Take Direction: Trust your photographer! During your session, I’ll guide you with poses and tips to help you look confident and professional.
✔️ Relax and Smile: A natural, relaxed smile can make all the difference. It conveys warmth and approachability in your headshot.
DON’T: Avoid These Headshot Pitfalls
❌ Distracting Outfits: Avoid busy patterns, bright logos or trendy styles that might date your headshot.
❌ Overdoing Accessories: Keep it simple with jewelry and accessories. Too much and too chunky can detract from your face. The key here is a polished look.
❌ Wearing Uncomfortable Clothing: If you don’t feel comfortable, it’ll show in the photos. Choose outfits you feel confident in, and this might be one you already have in your closet!
❌ Using Outdated Headshots: If your headshot is more than four years old, it’s time for an update! Styles of clothes, hairstyles and facial appearance all change over time. It’s important to have a headshot that represents who you are now so you’re not misrepresenting yourself to potential clients!
It’s time you finally get a professional headshot that actually feels like you.
You’ve known for a while it was time—your current photo is outdated, or maybe you’ve been putting it off because the idea of being in front of the camera feels… stressful.
But imagine this: you walk into a welcoming studio feeling prepared, confident, and completely at ease!
That’s because before you ever step in front of the camera, you’ll already have everything you need: a simple “How to Prepare” guide, expert outfit tips, and trusted recommendations for local hair and makeup stylists who know how to help you look your best—without making you feel overdone.
And during your session? You won’t have to wonder what to do with your hands or how to smile naturally. I’ll guide you through every pose, making sure you feel comfortable and seen. Together, we’ll create a final image that feels like the best version of your real, everyday self—professional, approachable, and confident.
Need photos for your whole team? I’ll come to your office or clinic for a convenient on-location session that aligns perfectly with your brand.
You’re ready, let’s shine a light on you—and maybe even have a little fun along the way!
Click below to see available dates and pricing.
