10 Headshot Mistakes to Avoid: Tips from a Professional Photographer
A professional headshot can be a crucial part of your personal or business profile. However, mistakes during the session can lead to results that are far from ideal. As professional photographers based in Chattanooga, Tennessee, we've seen our share of headshot blunders, and we're here to help you avoid them. Here are the top 10 mistakes to steer clear of when preparing for your headshot session:
1. Wearing Inappropriate Clothing
Mistake: Choosing clothing that is too flashy, patterned, or casual.
Solution: Opt for solid colors that complement your skin tone and avoid distracting patterns. Dress professionally and in alignment with your industry's standards.
2. Ignoring Makeup and Hair
Mistake: Overlooking the importance of professional makeup and hair styling.
Solution: Consider hiring a professional stylist or following professional guidelines to ensure your makeup and hair look polished but natural. If you hire us, it’s included!
3. Using an Outdated Style
Mistake: Opting for a dated or overly trendy look.
Solution: Choose a timeless style that represents you in a modern and sophisticated way.
4. Forgetting to Communicate with Your Photographer
Mistake: Not discussing your needs and expectations with your photographer.
Solution: Clearly communicate what you're looking for, so we can tailor the session to meet your specific needs. Send us your inspiration!
5. Not Practicing Your Pose
Mistake: Assuming you'll know how to pose on the spot.
Solution: Practice different poses and expressions in advance, and don't hesitate to ask us for guidance during the session.
6. Choosing the Wrong Background
Mistake: Selecting a background that clashes with your outfit or brand.
Solution: Collaborate with us to choose a background that complements your look and aligns with your professional image. Studio, out door or on location are all options.
7. Ignoring Your Brand or Industry
Mistake: Taking a headshot that doesn't align with your profession or brand.
Solution: Consider your industry's norms and your personal brand when planning your headshot, from attire to pose. Color can play a big role here too.
8. Being Too Stiff or Unnatural
Mistake: Appearing rigid or uncomfortable in your photos.
Solution: Relax and be yourself. We'll help guide you to find natural and flattering poses. Send your playlist to me and we can jam out. Sometimes that helps.
9. Over-Editing and Retouching
Mistake: Excessive editing that leads to an unrealistic appearance.
Solution: Trust our professional editing process to enhance your photos without losing authenticity. We want it to look like you but we don’t want everyone’s eye going to a stress pimple. We’ll hook you up ;-)
10. Not Preparing Ahead of Time
Mistake: Leaving everything to the last minute.
Solution: Plan your outfit, hair, and makeup well in advance, and arrive early to your session to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Avoiding these common headshot mistakes can be the difference between an image that serves you well and one that falls short. By following these tips and collaborating with us, you can ensure that your headshot is a professional and accurate reflection of you. Contact us today to schedule your headshot session at our Chattanooga studio, and let's create a photograph that you'll be proud to showcase!
