Let’s be honest—first impressions matter. Whether you’re looking to attract new clients, land a dream job, or just flex a little on LinkedIn, a high-quality headshot can work wonders. That grainy selfie from 2017? Yeah, it’s time to retire that. A polished, professional image instantly makes you stand out, appear more credible, and signals to the world that you mean business. But before you step in front of the camera, there are a few key things to consider—because great headshots don’t just happen. They’re crafted.

1. Dress the Part—But Make It You

Your outfit should reflect your personality while keeping it professional. Think classic, well-fitted, and free of loud distractions.

Go for solid colors. Patterns can be tricky and may not translate well on camera.
Avoid overly trendy pieces. You want your headshot to be timeless, not dated by next season.
Consider your industry. A startup founder and a corporate executive might take very different approaches to their look—but both should aim for polished and confident.
Layer smartly. Blazers, structured shirts, and well-fitted tops always work well. Accessories? Keep them minimal.

2. Grooming and Self-Care: The 24-Hour Rule

A fresh haircut the night before? Bad idea. Give yourself at least 3-5 days for your cut to settle.

Men: A clean shave or well-groomed beard is key. Don’t forget a little moisturizer to keep your skin looking fresh.
Women: Keep makeup natural and flattering. Think of it as an enhanced version of your everyday look—nothing too heavy.
Hydrate and rest. Trust me, nothing screams “tired” like puffy eyes and dehydrated skin.

3. The Mood Matters—Come in with Confidence

Confidence is your best accessory (and no, I’m not just saying that). If you walk into your session feeling good, it shows.

Get in the zone. Play your favorite music on the way to the shoot, take deep breaths, and remind yourself why you’re doing this.
Practice your expressions. Stand in front of a mirror and try different smiles and angles. Sounds silly? Maybe. But it works.
Relax. A professional photographer (like yours truly) will guide you into the best poses. No need to overthink it.

4. Know Your Angles and Lighting

A good photographer will know how to position you for the best results, but it never hurts to be prepared.

Tilt your head slightly. Straight-on shots work, but a slight angle can add depth and make your features more flattering.
Avoid the deer-in-headlights look. A soft, natural gaze works better than a wide-eyed stare.
Find your light. Harsh lighting can create unflattering shadows. Natural or studio lighting that enhances your skin tone is ideal.

5. What Happens After the Shoot?

Once the photos are taken, your photographer will provide you with the best selects. This is your chance to choose images that truly represent you.

Keep it authentic. You want your photo to look like you—not a heavily retouched, unrecognizable version.
Use your headshot strategically. Upload it to LinkedIn, your website, and social media profiles. A consistent, professional image across platforms builds trust and recognition.

Conclusion

A high-quality headshot is more than just a nice picture—it’s your digital first impression. Investing in a professional session ensures you show up online as your best self. So come prepared, be confident, and let’s create a standout portrait that gets you noticed.

How to Prepare for a Professional Portrait Session: From Style to Mood