Headshot photography tips

A professional head shot is necessary for every business. Some people say put your best “foot forward” I would say put your best “face forward”. We have all seen a business card or website where the photo of the person a awful. I always wonder why that person thought a bad photo would increase people seeking their product or services. So here are some headshot photography tips. By the way you can do this yourself with a friend. First, wear clothing you generally would wear to work. Then…

1. LIGHTING:  The most important element. I would suggest you take the photo outside. Find a place where your face is in the shade but the sun is at the photographers back. You want your face properly lit.

2. BACKGROUND: Use a simple background. This could be poster board or a  stone wall. Remember this is just your head from the top of the shoulders up. Do not stand too close to the back ground.

3. POSITION: Stand your body at a 45 degree angle to the camera. Then rotate your face toward the camera. Make sure your shoulders are back. No slouching.

4. HEIGHT: Have your friend stand a little above where you are. This is especially helpful if you have a double thick chin.

5. NUMBER: Take lots of photos. Have fun. Don’t hold a smile. Keep it spontaneous. Try some with smiles some without a smile. Think pleasant thoughts. It shows on your face.

After you take 20 or 30 shots look at them and learn. You can then do it again. You may find that there is a particular expression you like. Try to repeat this look the second time around. Now you have a photo you can be proud of to place on your website, facebook, linkedin or business cards.