Does Your Business Headshot Cut the Mustard?

Top Tips for Getting a Good Business Headshot and Why it Matters

Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, blogs - whether you have a presence on all or some of them, or you simply have a website, your business profile is being scrutinised all the time.

 
 

And what's one of the first things that people want to see when they visit the above?  Well I for one always like to put a face to a name before I do business with anyone, and judging from the comments I've heard lately from other entrepreneurs, they feel exactly the same as I do.  There's nothing more annoying than visiting someone's LinkedIn or Facebook page to be confronted with that headshot silhouette.

But if you want to make a good impression with your clients, why would you use that dodgy, fuzzy holiday snap that was taken five years ago or get your best friend or colleague to take a couple of quick shots of you at your computer?

It may be a cliche, but first impressions really do count, so if you want to come across as professional then here are some tips to get you started:-

• First and foremost, as a professional yourself, you should hire a professional.  Do your research and find someone whose style you like, whose work shows they have an understanding of lighting, posing and the particular demands of business portraiture, and who will help you to project the right image for your business.

 

• Prepare for your portrait session - don't just turn up having thrown on any old thing and expect the photographer to work miracles!  Dress appropriately for the image you want to convey, whether that be a more corporate, business-like look, or something a bit more relaxed but still professional.  If you're a woman, always wear makeup and if you're a man, please make sure your tie, jacket and shirt complement each other!

 

• It's all in the eyes!  For those of you who hate smiling to order, this should come as good news.  If you've ever watched an episode of America's Next Top Model, you'll be familiar with the word "shmize", which basically means smile with your eyes.  Cheesy, toothy grins are definitely out, but a warm expression which comes from the eyes will reveal the authentic you.  Which leads me nicely on to my next point ....

 

• Don't just sit there - think!  If you just plonk yourself down in front of the camera with a blank stare, thinking about how much you hate having your photo taken, and just waiting for the photographer to "get on with it", then I'm afraid the photos will live up to your expectations; you'll look grim, resigned and will probably scare any customers who drop by your website.  Instead, engage with the photographer by remembering that there's someone behind that camera; think of someone nice or something nice; look interested and animated.

Need a new corporate headshot for your business or simply some advice? Then click here to visit my corporate website.