Your headshot is often the first impression you make—whether on LinkedIn, your website, or a business card—so choosing the right photographer is crucial.
A professional headshot can significantly impact your personal brand, career opportunities, and how you are perceived in your industry.
Selecting the right professional for this task isn’t just about finding someone with a camera; it’s about choosing a specialist who understands the nuances of headshot photography and can deliver a final product that truly represents you at your best.
Seven things you absolutely should consider when choosing your headshot photographer are:
1 – Make Sure they Specialize in Headshots
Choosing a photographer who specializes in headshots rather than a generalist can make all the difference. You’ll come cross countless websites of photographers who do it all. Weddings, family, kids, dogs, food, commercial work, cars, sports and headshots.
You really should avoid “Jacks of all Trades” when it comes to your headshots. Your headshots are too important.
Book a specialist and get someone who has:
- Expertise in Capturing Professionalism: Specialists in headshot photography understand the subtleties of lighting, angles, and expressions that convey a polished and professional image.
- Understanding of Industry Standards: Whether you’re in a corporate environment, a creative field, or building a personal brand, headshot specialists are familiar with industry-specific requirements and expectations.
- Client Coaching Skills: This is a huge part of headshot photography. A good headshot isn’t just a photograph of the front of your head! You should look confident, professional, approachable and trustworthy. Most of us don’t like being photographed for all sorts of reasons – but a specialist headshot photographer will be able to coach you on facial expressions and show you how to convey these qualities. So be sure to review the photographer’s portfolio. Do the expressions look authentic? Or are people just giving their default fake smile for a camera? We can all spot fake smiles, and the last place you want one is in your headshot.
2. Consider What Experience They Have
The value of experience in headshot photography cannot be overstated, especially when it comes to understanding and meeting diverse client needs.
- Years in the Industry: A photographer with several years of experience in headshot photography likely has honed their skills and developed a deep understanding of what works.
- Diverse Clientele: Photographers who have worked with a wide range of clients—from executives to creatives—bring a wealth of experience in tailoring their approach to suit different personalities and industries.
- Problem-Solving Skills: An experienced photographer is better equipped to handle any challenges that arise during the shoot, such as nervous clients, tricky lighting conditions, or wardrobe malfunctions.
3 – Carefully Review Online Portfolios
Reviewing a photographer’s portfolio is essential to ensure their style aligns with your personal brand and the image you want to project.
- Consistency in Quality: Look for a portfolio that demonstrates consistent quality across a number of shoots, indicating that the photographer can reliably produce excellent results. Again – look at the facial expressions of people on the website. Are they authentic?
- Style Alignment: Consider whether the photographer’s style—be it formal, casual, or creative—matches the image you wish to convey.
- Diversity of Subjects: A strong portfolio will showcase the photographer’s ability to work with individuals of different features, skin tones, and personalities, highlighting their adaptability and skill.
4 – Find Out About Their Process
The photographer’s personality and approach play a significant role in how comfortable and confident you feel during the session. Do they have a studio process that’s designed to help you to relax, feel comfortable and confident? Specialist headshot photographers will use special software during the shoot to make sure you can see and review the images in real time, rather than waiting for an online gallery after the session.
- Professionalism and Communication: A photographer’s professionalism and clear communication can greatly impact your overall experience and the final results.
- Comfort Level: Feeling at ease with your photographer is crucial for capturing authentic expressions and relaxed poses.
- Collaborative Approach: A photographer who listens to your needs and collaborates with you to achieve your vision will likely produce a headshot that truly represents you.
5 – Read Online Reviews and Testimonials
Checking reviews and testimonials is an important step in gauging the experiences of past clients.
- Positive Feedback: Consistent positive feedback is a strong indicator of a photographer’s strengths in quality, professionalism, and customer service.
- Success Stories: Pay attention to specific examples where the photographer’s work has significantly benefited a client’s personal or professional brand.
- Handling Criticism: How a photographer responds to any negative reviews can reveal their level of professionalism and commitment to client satisfaction.
6 – Review Pricing Options
Understanding the photographer’s pricing structure and what’s included in their packages is crucial for making an informed decision.
- Transparency in Pricing: A good photographer will be transparent about their pricing and the services included, helping you avoid hidden fees or unpleasant surprises. Pricing should be clear on the website.
- Think in terms of Value for Money: Investing in a specialist may be more expensive, but the long-term value of a high-quality headshot can outweigh the initial cost. You’ll probably only refresh your headshots every 2-3 years, but they’ll be out in the world representing you and creating first impressions every single day.
- Customizable Packages: Look for photographers who offer customizable packages tailored to your specific needs, whether you require a single headshot or a full branding session. Every client is different. You might need 1 headshot or 10. Look for pricing packages that offer flexibility and don’t exist just to encourage you to spend more than you want to.
7 – Find Out Where They Are, and How to Book
Practical considerations such as location and convenience can influence your overall experience with the photographer.
- Studio vs. On-Location Shoots: Decide whether you prefer a controlled studio environment or the dynamic setting of an on-location shoot, and ensure the photographer can accommodate your preference. Shooting on location can be great, but you’re at the mercy of the elements. Even moderate wind can cause issues with hair, let alone rain… and we do live here in Newcastle!
- Accessibility and Scheduling: Choose a photographer whose studio is easily accessible and who offers flexible scheduling to suit your availability. Look for easy online scheduling to save time with email communications.
- Post-Shoot Services: Consider the photographer’s post-shoot services, such as retouching, and delivery options, to ensure they meet your needs. How soon will you get your final images?
Choosing the right professional headshot photographer is crucial for creating a powerful and effective personal brand image. By considering factors such as specialization, experience, portfolio, personality, reviews, pricing, and location, you can ensure that you select a photographer who will deliver results that truly represent you at your best.
Take the time to research and evaluate potential photographers, ensuring you choose someone who aligns with your vision and needs. After all, your headshot is more than just a photo—it’s a reflection of your brand. Invest in a photographer who can capture you at your best.
