4 Best Tips for Taking a Timeless Professional Headshot

Make sure it’s something you can use for years to come.

Question: What's your best tip for taking a professional headshot you can use for the next few years?

Think About Your Personal Brand

"Have you ever noticed how some professionals will wear the same clothes during their presentations? They have a certain look that represents their personal brand. What's your personal brand? More importantly, do you have the data and experience to create one? I remember when I shaved my beard and a few of my clients celebrated. I understand my personal brand far more today then I did then."


Don't Be Too Trendy

"Adding personality to the headshot can make it more appealing and successful but avoid anything in the frame that is too topical or trendy. If you are wearing anything trendy, in a year or so it will no longer be in style and the picture will feel dated. Same goes for any trendy filter applied to the photo. Personality is OK, but keep it simple and you can use it for years."


Project Confidence

"Ideally choose a place with good lighting, a solid background and avoid wearing all black, white or red. Then, take a moment to find your mindset where you are most comfortable and content. You will project those thoughts and feeling subconsciously. Of the photos, best ones are those that project confidence yet gives off a feeling of being relaxed and natural."


Understand That You Get What You Pay For

"Simply put, once you’ve figured out the sort of mood and personality you want your headshot to convey, set aside some funds to hire a professional photographer. No matter how skilled you think you are with a camera, it’s always better to bring in a pro. They’ll be able to capture you far better than you would capture yourself, and at the end of the day, it will be money well spent."


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4 Best Tips for Taking a Timeless Professional Headshot

Make sure it’s something you can use for years to come.

Question: What's your best tip for taking a professional headshot you can use for the next few years?

Think About Your Personal Brand

"Have you ever noticed how some professionals will wear the same clothes during their presentations? They have a certain look that represents their personal brand. What's your personal brand? More importantly, do you have the data and experience to create one? I remember when I shaved my beard and a few of my clients celebrated. I understand my personal brand far more today then I did then."


Don't Be Too Trendy

"Adding personality to the headshot can make it more appealing and successful but avoid anything in the frame that is too topical or trendy. If you are wearing anything trendy, in a year or so it will no longer be in style and the picture will feel dated. Same goes for any trendy filter applied to the photo. Personality is OK, but keep it simple and you can use it for years."


Project Confidence

"Ideally choose a place with good lighting, a solid background and avoid wearing all black, white or red. Then, take a moment to find your mindset where you are most comfortable and content. You will project those thoughts and feeling subconsciously. Of the photos, best ones are those that project confidence yet gives off a feeling of being relaxed and natural."


Understand That You Get What You Pay For

"Simply put, once you’ve figured out the sort of mood and personality you want your headshot to convey, set aside some funds to hire a professional photographer. No matter how skilled you think you are with a camera, it’s always better to bring in a pro. They’ll be able to capture you far better than you would capture yourself, and at the end of the day, it will be money well spent."


See Also: How to Use Street Teams to Build Brand Awareness

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