A photographer can only work with what’s in front of them. No matter how good they are at taking photos of people, you still need to give them some decent raw materials to work with if you want to get the best possible result from your corporate headshot session. A little preparation is key to ensuring you come across as professional, approachable, and confident.
Here’s a guide to help you get ready for your session and make the most out of the experience:
1. Choose the Right Clothes
- Dress for Your Industry: Consider the norms of your profession. A tailored suit may be ideal for finance or law, while smart-casual might be more better for tech or creative industries. A good rule of thumb is to wear what you would to a client meeting.
- Stick to Neutrals: Solid colours that suit you work well and keep the focus on your face. Avoid busy patterns or textures that can be distracting.
- Keep It Clean: Ensure your clothes are wrinkle-free and well-fitted. A quick steam or iron can make a big difference. It’s also good to check for dust, crumbs, and pet or human hairs on your clothes!
2. Grooming Tips
- Hair: Book a haircut a few days before the session to give it time to settle naturally.
- Skin: Stay hydrated and exfoliate lightly a day or two beforehand for a fresh appearance. Avoid heavy makeup, and opt for a natural, polished look.
- Shaving: If you’re clean-shaven, shave on the day of the shoot to avoid shadowing. If you have facial hair, groom it neatly.
3. Prepare Mentally
- Practice Your Smile: Spend a little time in front of a mirror to experiment with different smiles and angles. A natural, relaxed smile works best.
- Relax Your Body: Corporate headshots aren’t as stiff as they used to be. Take a few deep breaths before the shoot and focus on maintaining good posture while staying relaxed.
- Think About Your Image: What message do you want your headshot to convey? Confidence? Warmth? Authority? Keeping this in mind can help you project the right energy.
4. Discuss Your Needs with the Photographer
- Share your goals for the headshot. Is it for LinkedIn? A company website? A press release?
- Let the photographer know your preferred angles or any specific insecurities you’d like to minimise.
- Don’t worry about spots or blemishes, they can be easily removed in editing.
5. The Day Before the Shoot
- Get a Good Night’s Sleep: Being well-rested will ensure you look fresh.
- Hydrate: Drinking plenty of water the day before will give your skin a natural glow.
- Pack Essentials: Bring a small grooming kit (comb, makeup, blotting papers) to make last-minute adjustments before the shoot.
6. On the Day of the Shoot
- Trust the Photographer: A professional photographer knows how to guide you through poses, lighting, and angles that work best for your face and goals.
- Don’t Worry: If you don’t know how to stand, small or pose don’t worry. The photographer will be able to help you with all of this and will give you as much time as you need to get the right photos.
- Look at the Photos: Review the images on the back of the photographer’s camera to make sure you are happy with some of them. You don’t have to make your final choices at this stage. If you don’t see any photos that you are happy with continue to work with the photographer until you do.
7. After the Session
- Work with the photographer to select the best image. Ask for minor retouching if needed, but avoid heavy edits that make the photo look unnatural.
Final Thoughts
Your corporate headshot is an investment in your professional image, so taking time to prepare is well worth it. By following these tips, you’ll not only look your best but also feel confident in the photo that represents you to the world.
