Key Questions to Ask Before Booking Your Headshot or Personal Branding Session
Whether you're considering a few updated headshots or a comprehensive personal branding shoot, asking the right questions can guide your decision-making process. Here are some questions to discuss with your photographer at when inquiring.
1. What Are My Professional Imaging Needs?
Headshots: Are you updating your LinkedIn profile, need a professional photo for business cards, or contributing to a company website? If you require one or two polished images, a headshot session is likely sufficient.
Personal Branding: Do you need a variety of images for different platforms, such as your personal website, multiple social media channels, or marketing materials? A personal branding session, which typically includes 20+ images in different settings and outfits, might be more appropriate.
2. How Often Should I Update My Professional Images?
It’s important to refresh your images periodically based on your industry and professional role. For most professionals, updating headshots every 1-2 years or whenever a significant change in appearance occurs is advisable. For those actively using personal branding, considering the pace of content consumption on platforms used is key; you may need new images more frequently.
3. What Kind of Image Style Aligns with My Professional Brand?
Discuss with your photographer the style of images that best suit your professional brand. Are you aiming for a conservative and traditional look, or something more creative and modern? Understanding this will help in planning the location, backdrop, lighting, and poses for your session.
4. What Should I Bring to My Session?
Knowing what to bring, from clothing options to accessories, can make a significant difference in the diversity and appeal of your photos. Ask about color recommendations, the number of outfit changes allowed, and any props or additional items that might enhance your session.
5. What Are the Deliverables and Timeline?
Clarify what you will receive after your session, such as the number of edited images, the format of these images, and the expected timeline for delivery. This ensures that your expectations align with what the studio can provide. Be sure to provide any requirements from you company ahead of time.
Asking these questions before booking your session can help ensure that your professional photography needs are met.
