Photographers Need Great Headshots Too!

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A big shout out of thanks today to guest blogger Daria Maidenbaum for her great headshot tips.  Headshot creators (photographers!) need fabulous headshots too.

Headshots.  About me page.  I think these are up there on the list of topics that make photographers cringe, especially when  building a new portfolio/website.  I want to talk to you today about the headshot portion – why you need a great photo of yourself, and some things to think about when choosing (or taking) a headshot.

If you’re anything like most people I know, the first thought that comes to mind are awkwardly posed and half smiled photos on a white/gray background that feel nothing like you.  Basically like old yearbook photos but for adults.  They’re not inspiring, there’s no personality, and you’re never happy with how you look.

Thankfully, the definition of what makes a headshot has expanded.  No longer do they need to be black and white, nor are they required to be on a blank background with studio lighting, taken head on.  Of course, if any of those fit your style, feel free to go with them.  What I want to put forward today though are some things to think about when choosing a headshot for yourself, and explore what some of the options are.

First things first.  Why do you need a headshot?  Whether you’re in business or not, when someone visits your website, they want to connect to who you are.  Having a photo on your “About Me” page gives them that visual and is another chance for you to put yourself out their and connect with the viewer.  People like to have an image in their head of who the photographer is, and a headshot gives you that opportunity.

It’s fairly clear why having a photo is important, but I think it’s just as important that the photo represents you as a person and artist.  While the formal (and often awkward) pictures still give the viewer a glimpse of who you are, they don’t really showcase your personality or viewpoint, and that is key.  If you’re in business, part of selling your work and your services is selling you as the photographer and your perspective.  If you’re not in business, you still want your perspective to be clear through your work, and to have a strong personal brand.  For this your headshot needs to be something other than run of the mill and leave the viewer thinking something about you.

Now I’m not saying your headshot needs to be something wild and crazy, nor all about one-upping each other with having the most interesting shot.  I just want you to think about having your personality shine through.

So what makes a good headshot?  I think I’ve already started to lead you in that direction, but let’s make it clearer.  A good headshot is in line with what you would consider a good portrait – clear personality and energy that cause you to connect with the subject.  Technically of course, you want everything to be sound, but I’m talking more about the artistic end.  A good headshot tells me something about who you are.

Now for the fun part.  What are options for a unique and interesting headshot and how do you make it your own.

Color

We all know color sets the mood. Make a statement with the color – vibrant, pastel, jewel tones, you name it.  Pick your outfit, jewelry, the background, any of these can help.

Processing

I think it’s best if you processing matches what your style tends to be, or coordinates with your style.  Think about using black & white, matte processing, textures, whatever best represents you (do you sense a theme here?).  Also think about using a creative lens if that works for you.  Here the photographer played with using a lensbaby while taking photos of me

Setting

Seamless backgrounds aren’t a requirement!  Personally I tend to do headshot sessions out and about in the city as I love the urban background.  If that’s not your thing, think about a location you really love and relate to – coffee shop, your desk, local park, garden, etc.

Props

Many photographers aren’t comfortable being in front of the camera, and using props can help ease that.  I know I’ve seen (and taken) photos of myself holding my camera so I’m half hidden behind it.  While that is definitely an option, and does give some bit of personality and make it clear that you are a photographer, it’s not the only option. Think outside the box and consider posing with or around other significant objects.  Drag in a pet or family member if that’s relevant to the type of photography you do.  Just remember, you want to be a key part of the photo, since it’s about you, so don’t hide behind what/whoever else is sharing the frame.

Viewpoint

This last one is what ties it all together for me.  I talked above about headshots and how they often involve awkward posing. My best advice is don’t feel like you have to look at the camera and smile.  In fact, if it fits your personality, you don’t necessarily have to look at the camera at all.  You can look into or out of the frame.  Your shot can be taking to only show your profile.  You can be laughing, or looking serious, or making a quirky facial expression if that fits your brand.  You can smile if you like to smile.  Play around with different expressions, and play around with different angles.  You can have a photo that’s head on, or try one that is shooting down on you. However you feel comfortable, try it.

The last piece of advice I have is something that is key to my mission as a photographer, especially as someone who focuses on headshots:  Your headshot should represent your best you.  Think about it – this is a photo that should look like you, feeling your most like you, and looking the way you look. When you look at the image, there should be a connection, and that’s what’s important

Whether you choose to take your headshot yourself, or hire another photographer to do it, there are plenty of ways to make your headshot feel natural and fun and fit your within your style.  Your personal photo is an important part of your online persona, and I’d love to see everyone reclaim the headshot so it’s not the dreaded beast it often seems.

Daria Maidenbaum

Daria Maidenbaum is a headshot and theatre photographer based in Philadelphia, PA and owner of Dare to Differ Photography.  Filled with varied interests, this city girl is usually found working backstage at different theatres, flipping at an adult gymnastics class, or cooking tasty treats to share with her girlfriend, often bringing her camera along for the ride.

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Categorized in: Business, Guest Bloggers, Portraits, Tips & Tricks