8 Tips for your headshot session

Written by Mehdi

Founder and chief photographer and videographer at Artmakers Studio in Tbilisi, Georgia

September 4, 2022

A headshot is key to a good first impression. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your headshot photoshoot! With just a little bit of preparation, you can ensure that you’ll get the best possible photos.  

1. Get a Good Sleep the Night Before

This will help to reduce any under-eye bags or dark circles, and you’ll feel more refreshed and alert when it comes time to have your picture taken. You want to look well-rested in your headshots, so make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before your shoot. This means no late nights out or working until the wee hours of the morning!

Of course, getting a good night’s sleep can be easier said than done. If you’re nervous about the upcoming shoot, try some relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation. You can also use lavender oil to help you drift off into a peaceful sleep. By taking some simple steps to prepare for your headshot session, you can ensure that you’ll look and feel your very best.

2. Choose the Best Outfit

When you’re getting your headshot taken, it’s important to choose an outfit that will make you look your best. After all, first impressions are important, and your headshot is often the first thing that potential clients or employers will see. So how do you choose the right outfit?

First, consider what kind of image you want to convey. Are you looking for something professional and businesslike, or something more casual and approachable? Once you’ve decided on the overall feel, you can start putting together some specific clothing items. For a professional look, stick to classic colors like black, navy, or gray. And be sure to avoid anything too flashy or trendy – you want your headshot to look timeless. If you’re going for a more casual vibe, feel free to experiment with patterned fabrics and bolder colors. Just make sure you avoid anything that’s too baggy or loose-fitting – you want the focus to be on your face, not your clothes. Putting some thought into your outfit choices will help ensure that you love your headshot – and that it makes the right impression. If you’re not sure what to wear, take a look at previous headshots of yourself or ask your photographer for advice.

3. Check Out Poses and Styles from Previous Clients

Take a look at the work your photographer has done for other clients. This will give you an idea of their style and what kinds of poses they typically use. It can also give you some inspiration for your own poses.

4. Practice Your Poses

Posing is an important part of any headshot session. The way you position your body can tell a lot about your personality and can help you to project the image you want to convey. However, posing for a headshot can be nerve-wracking, and it can be easy to forget what to do when the camera is pointed at you. One way to reduce stress and increase your chances of getting a great headshot is to practice your poses before the session begins. Once you’ve looked at some examples, it’s time to start practicing! Stand in front of a mirror and try out different positions until you find ones that are both comfortable and flattering. Then, on the day of the shoot, you can simply relax and let the camera capture your best angles. With a little bit of practice, you’ll be sure to create stunning headshots that reflect your unique personality.

5. Look in a Mirror

Before you leave for your headshot session, take one last look in the mirror. Make sure your hair is styled the way you want it and that there’s nothing on your face or clothes that you don’t want to be there.

A headshot is a specific type of portrait that is usually used for professional purposes. Because a headshot is typically used as a form of marketing or self-promotion, it is important to make sure that the photograph accurately represents who you are and what you do. Before booking a headshot session, take some time to look in the mirror and consider what you want your photograph to say about you. Are you looking for a serious and professional headshot, or do you want something that is more relaxed and approachable? Once you have a clear idea of the image you want to project, you can share your desires with the photographer who can help you capture it. 

6. Work with Your Best Side

We all have a “good side” that we prefer to be photographed from. When you’re posing for your headshots, make sure to angle yourself towards your best side. This doesn’t necessarily mean your most photogenic side, but the side that best represents who you are. If you’re a self-assured individual, you might want to go with a strong and confident pose. If you’re more introspective, you might want to choose a softer and more vulnerable pose. No matter who you are, though, it’s important to be genuine in your headshot. After all, that’s what people will be seeing when they look at your headshot – the real you.

7. Drink Plenty of Water

Anyone who has ever gotten a headshot knows that the process can be a bit daunting. After all, you’re essentially putting your face on display for the world to see. As such, it’s important to put your best foot forward, and that starts with ensuring that you’re well-hydrated. Drinking plenty of water before a headshot session helps to plump up the skin, making fine lines and wrinkles less visible. In addition, it gives you a healthy glow and ensures that your makeup will go on evenly. Make sure to drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your shoot and bring a bottle with you to drink during the shoot. Trust me, your skin will thank you!  

8. Arrive Early

Finally, make sure to arrive early for your shoot so you’re not rushed or stressed. In fact arriving early to a headshot session has several advantages. First, it gives you time to relax and get comfortable in the space. This is especially important if you’re nervous about having your picture taken. Second, it gives the photographer a chance to test the lighting and equipment to make sure everything is working properly. And last but definitely not least, it gives the photographer time to get to know you a bit so they can put you at ease in front of the camera. Once you’re on set, take a deep breath and relax. Enjoy yourself and have fun! The more relaxed you are, the better your photos will be. 

These are just a few tips to help you prepare for your upcoming headshot session. I’m sure they help you get the most out of your headshot session.

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