All headshots are not created equal. Like it or not, judgments based on facial appearance play a powerful role in how we treat others, and how we get treated. They also play a big part in if we get "that first meeting". On social media and digital marketing, your image is everything. If you need to show that you are an expert in your field, that you are competent and professional, or that you are able to fit into a specific group of people to land a job, deal, or introduction than you have come to the right place. Camel City Photography will work with you in creating the perfect headshot to meet your goals. Your objectives, your face, and your style is unique to you. That is why your session is customized to deliver photos that help you accomplish your goals. We are not a cookie-cutter studio. We deliver images that help you get to that next level in your life.
Winston Salem Headshot Photography | Portrait Studio | Branding your business | Corporate photography | business headshots | Corporate Portraits | Business Photographer | Professional business headshot | branding | Brand identity | Branding companies | brand identity | brand marketing | Small Business Branding | Branding design | Business Branding
Let’s start by asking a few questions.
THERE ARE 4 IMPORTANT QUESTIONS WE ASK BEFORE WE EVEN PICK UP A CAMERA.
1. What are the main reasons for creating these headshots?
Are they to help you fit in with your company or are they to help you stand out amongst your peers? Whether you own your own business or you work for a corporation - what are your goals with your headshot?
2. What are the 4 words you want people to define you by when they look at your headshot for the first time?
As humans, we create mental shortcuts to help make decisions about a person before we meet them. If you had to pick only four words, what would they be to describe who you are?
3. How many audiences do you want to target/appeal to?
You wouldn't walk into a Board of Directors meeting dressed the same way as you would walk into your monthly networking meetup group. It's important to plan for the different groups of people you want to connect with.
4. Who are you? What makes you different?
Any colors or clothing items you are known for? Make a list of items or features that make you unique.
We believe in creating headshots that are attracting your target audience and defining who you are in a way that speaks to your personal brand 24/7. We do not believe in photographing you exactly the same way as everyone else is photographed because you do not have the same goals as everyone else. They say a picture is worth a thousand words. We believe your headshot is worth much more than that. Define which words you want your headshot to say about you.
Camel City Photography is based in Winston Salem, NC and is available for travel across the US.
Tips & Tricks to Master Your Headshot Session - 10 Secrets from a Headshot Photographer
1. RESEARCH
Know "WHO" you want the headshot to speak to. Someone Creative? Formal? Corporate? Everyday Consumer? Acting/Modeling? It DOES matter, because just like your other marketing materials, you want to make sure your target market can relate to you.
2. POSING
Practice different looks in front of the mirror. Find your best angle. One of my BEST tips? Practice SLIGHTLY pushing your face down and forward, just like a turtle. It's a tiny movement. I know it sounds weird but it works wonders in your photo! No more double chins!
3. MAKE-UP
It's important a professional make-up artist applies your makeup for your headshots. They will always apply it slightly darker than your normal everyday wear because the makeup/color/lighting all translates differently in camera. PLUS a professional makeup artist knows how to highlight your best features for the camera. If you plan on doing your own makeup for your headshots be sure to not try anything too far out of the ordinary for that day. You want to remain looking like yourself. If you need professional makeup artist please let us know.
4. CLOTHING
The trick to finding the perfect headshot top? Keep it Simple! You want to make sure that the focus isn't on the pattern of your shirt. It's why I always tell my clients to bring in solid tops so that you aren't distracting the viewer from where you want their attention...your face! It's about using the perfect expression to convey your personality.
When choosing clothing for your professional headshot: think classic. Pick your favorite suit that fits you well and is a dark color like navy blue or gray. Choose a suit that doesn't bunch up when you button it or if you sit down. Ties look best when their tone lands between the suit and the shirt-- so a light shirt, a dark suit, and a tie in a shade somewhere between them. Avoid super shiny silk ties as they can be somewhat reflective.
Clothing with really tight grids, stripes, or a small herringbone pattern can have a moiré pattern effect on camera. Try to stay away from anything with bold, distracting patterns or colors like neons that can reflect the color on to your skin.
5.CONFIDENCE / PERSONALITY
Repeat phrases that help you feel confident. Wear clothing that helps you feel good. Do your "I'm on top of the world dance" before (or during) your shoot. Confidence is the best accessory you can bring with you. You can tell what someone was thinking when looking at their headshot. While I am an expert at "creating confidence" through my posing, angles, and conversation we have during your session, it's the #1 challenge I see in other headshots. Smile & be happy! You want the person looking at your photo to see you and think to themselves that they want to work with you because you look approachable and like someone, they want to get to know more.
6. SHOW OFF ALL YOUR "FACES"
Don't be afraid to let your personality shine through. Depending on where you will be using your headshots, you need to have a variety in your expressions. We'll work together to bring out your different "sides". Soft & relaxed vs. happy & approachable vs. confident & fierce vs. professional & business-minded.
7. COMMUNICATION
It's really important you trust your photographer and can communicate to them what you want. However, saying that, don't be afraid to ask to see a photo or two to make sure you are both on the same page. You need to walk out of that session knowing you have THE SHOT! Work with someone you have seen their headshot work as well. A great landscape photographer doesn't make a great headshot photographer. Headshot Photography is an art on its own!
8. HAIR
Keep your hair as you normally style it. A good blow out beforehand can go a long way. You don't want your hair styled in a way that is not "normal" for you, or a style you'll never repeat either. It's all about confidence, so while yes, you want it professionally done and in top shape, make sure your hairstylist knows you're going in for your headshot and want it styled accordingly.
9. HYDRATE
Be sure to drink plenty of water and get a great night's rest beforehand. Don't schedule a headshot for Saturday morning if you know you're going to have a late Friday night. You want to look well-rested with glowing skin. While yes, a good makeup artist will help correct those concerns, you want to do as much as possible to prevent a tired look as possible. Be sure to drink lots of water as far ahead in advance as possible to get your skin ready.
10. TRY NEW THINGS
Don't be afraid to try new things at your session. It's usually when you're least expecting it when we get the PERFECT expression. Don't try to hide your smile if you happen to laugh at something or don't feel you have to "snap" into a specific look. A lot of clients come in with their suit and tie and find out they actually love the photos where they are in their regular top instead. Remember, it won't hurt to try different looks.
YOU’RE READY TO ROCK!
Now that you’re all set and ready to rock your headshot session, let us know if you have any questions, even if it’s “does this top go with these pants?” And don't worry- you got this! I can’t wait to see you in front of my lens!
1 Comments
Aug 11, 2021, 2:24:25 PM
Peggy Haymes - I need some new headshots, and would like to include my dog in some of them. Let me know if that's possible.