Business headshots are everywhere. You’re sure to have seen one online, in magazines and books, or in someone’s front yard on a real estate sign. These headshots are used to give a clear image of what a person, whether they are the CEO of a large company or an up and coming business professional, looks like and presents themselves.
What is a Headshot?
Headshots are taken from the torso or chest up. Experienced photographers are able to set the scene, create the perfect lighting, and shoot at an angle that will be the flattering. You might think that it would be hard to mess up something as simple as a headshot but it’s more than just the ability to take a picture of someone. Skilled photographers can capture the personality of the client. The difference between hiring someone with little experience versus investing in a talented photographer is night and day, so take the time to look at the work of a few photographers. Be sure to ask your photographer what is included in your package.
Generally, headshots are taken inside a studio or office leaving little room for creativity. Outdoor headshots are not as typical but they are used to place the professional in a real-life environment, often the area in which they work- real estate agents in front of homes, social media entrepreneurs in coffee shops, or business professionals in places around their city. Talk to your photographer about their experience with both as you decide which option is better for you.
Purpose of Professional Headshots
Social media is one of the best ways to market your company and we find that many business professionals have digitally produced head shots to use for that purpose alone. They are often on websites where companies define who they are and their purpose. Aside from corporations, authors, actors, models, and social media entrepreneurs use these everyday as a method of personal branding. You’ll might also see these on professional portfolios and publications, social media forums, annual reports and press releases, as well as on marketing and advertising materials.
Capturing the Perfect Headshot
There are several factors that go into creating a worthy headshot...
- Range - Headshots are taken at a medium-closeup range and will show the client from center of their chest to the top of their head or sometimes even their entire torso and head.
- The Rule of Thirds - The photographer will ensure that the clients eyes are one-third of the way in the frame.
- Profile - The client may look directly at you or off-center. Taking a few images of both will help to ensure you have the perfect headshot!
- Lighting - To eliminate blemishes and wrinkles, diffuse the light. This creates less work for you later as the photograph will not require as much touching up.
- Secondary Lighting - Having a secondary source of light at the top of your clients head will help maintain their head shape and prevent their crown from fading.
- Lens - Avoid using a wide-angled lens as this may distort your clients face. It is better to use a lens that will slim their face.
- Atmosphere - It is best that the client has a relaxed look on their face so do your best to keep them composed and laid back.
- Natural Light - Natural lighting creates a softer look. Have your client stand facing a window. If the sun is too bright, you might have to use a diffuser.
- Face Shape - Capture a sharp jawline as this is helps shape the client’s face.
The more you do something, the better you will become at it. Taking headshots is not an exception to this rule and overtime setting up the perfect lighting and pulling out the confidence of clients becomes second nature to the best photographers.
Contact us (513-912-0022) if you have any questions or want to learn more about Cincy Photo Pro!
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Cincy Photo Pro
Cincy Photo Pro is a group of experienced and professional photographers and videographers that listen to your desires and know-how to fulfill them. Since 2011, we have been helping businesses and families in the Greater Cincinnati area to show off their businesses, services, events, and portraits!
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