Whether you are an actor, a public figure, or an executive looking to develop your portfolio, a professional headshot is an important component in building your brand. If you are connecting with your audience on social media or want to personalize your website, the quality and style of your headshot conveys a lot about you as a person.
Taking the time to schedule a photo session with a commercial photographer in Dallas may cramp your work schedule. Yet you should make it a priority. Josh Phillips Photography can work with you to capture your true persona with high quality images you can utilize in a wide range of formats moving forward.
What Professional Image Are You Trying to Project?
Everything in a photograph projects a public image. Viewers will form opinions about you based what they see online. Therefore, all elements must come together so that you make a strong and lasting impression. These elements include:
Background
Most corporate headshots contain solid backgrounds that are white, black, blue, or gray. Solid colors create a contrast that highlights your features and clothing. If you are in a creative field such as music or acting, you may want to incorporate more color, patterns, texture, or drama to the background. Avoid busy backgrounds that compete with the focal point of the photo – you.
Attire
The type of clothing you wear should be appropriate for your job and the industry in which you work. A good example would be wearing a suit and tie if you are an insurance agent or a realtor. If you are a body builder, however, you may want to consider athletic wear. If you are an actor or a musician, you may want to wear high-end fashion that is relevant to culture.
Body Language
No matter what field you are in, you want to project confidence and professionalism. This is where having an experienced Dallas commercial photographer is vital. A portrait photographer can guide your posing, head position, and facial expression to bring out your best features.
How to Prepare for a Headshot
If you want a successful photo shoot, then plan ahead. Avoid a last minute walk-in session. Posing in front of the camera is similar to walking out on a stage. It requires a certain mindset with absolute focus. Planning ahead will keep the shoot from becoming stressful. Remember, the whole point of a session is to celebrate your image and have fun.
To properly prepare for a photo shoot, follow these tips:
- Get plenty of rest. If you are tired, it will be evident in your demeanor.
- Pick your attire out in advance. Your clothes should be dry-cleaned and free from blemishes.
- Get your hair and makeup professional styled. Talk to your photographer about how to apply your makeup so that it looks good through the lens.
- Give yourself plenty of time during the shoot. Allow the creative process to take its course. Great photos happen when both you and the photographer are given the space to come up with ideas.
- Consult with your photographer. The pre-shoot consultation gives you the opportunity to discuss the image you want to portray, and how you want to achieve it.