Headshot photography is one of the most consistently in-demand services a photographer can offer. No matter what profession, nearly everyone needs a headshot. Businesses like to put headshots of their employees on their websites to add a personal touch. Individuals need headshots for their websites, portfolios, and social media pages. These days, nearly everyone has some side hustle, and many have found a niche service that means they need a specialized headshot.
What is a Headshot?
Headshot photography is an excellent market for photographers. Everyone needs a headshot, from corporate worker-bees to Instagram influencers. But what exactly is a headshot?
Headshots are photos that focus on the face. They provide a quick look at you and help people put a face to your name. They are usually corporate in nature, meaning they are for business purposes. But the lines between business and personal life blur as our lives become more connected through social media. More and more professional-style headshots are used for Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn profiles.
Classically, you’d find headshots on a businesses website to give it a professional but personal touch. Some professions, like realtors or lawyers, rely heavily on headshots for marketing purposes. Actors and models need good headshots as part of their portfolios. Some businesses ask for headshots to be included with resumes and job applications.
So who needs a headshot? Basically, everyone does!
Headshots vs. Portraits
Headshots are different than portraits for a couple of reasons. For one, they focus on the face only. Headshots usually include head and shoulders, with a complete focus on the face. There are no distracting props or backgrounds. This doesn’t mean that the background must be a boring backdrop, but it means that the purpose of the photo should not be lost in other details.
Portraits, on the other hand, meet a variety of needs. They can be waist-up or full-body shots, and they include props and setups of every description. Client perceptions play an important role here. Many people from all walks of life seek out photographers to do professional headshots, and they have something specific in mind when they ask for that. Therefore, it’s vital for the photographer to take the time and to talk to their client. What exactly are they looking for? What profession do they work in, and how are they going to use the images? Is there a specific location or setup they’d like to use?
Another client expectation is worth mentioning. Headshot sessions are quicker and easier than a portrait session. They should only take a few minutes of your client’s time, whether they come to you or you go to them. As such, there’s an expectation to headshot photography prices. Clients are going to expect the prices to be less than a full portrait session.
All of these questions not only lay a foundation of expectations, but they also put the client at ease with the photographer. These chats always pay in dividends since the clients will be more comfortable in front of your camera.
How to Take Good Headshots ? Top 9 Tips on Mastering Your Photography Skills
Tip 1–Chat About the Purpose of the Images
The first step to any headshot photo session is to have a firm grasp on exactly what the client needs. This will set the stage for all of the decisions you make going forward. Where will you shoot, in the studio or on location? In their office or outdoors? What wardrobe choices must be made? Do they need a formal-style headshot because of their profession, or do they need something more relaxed and situational?
The importance of this conversation with your clients cannot be overemphasized. The needs of a lawyer are going to be completely different than the needs of a yoga instructor, and their two headshots should look very different.
Tip 2–Find a Location That Works
Backgrounds for headshots can range from actual backdrops in a studio to pretty much any indoor or outdoor setting. While the location is unimportant, the elements that make a great commercial headshot are pretty consistent. Namely, your background must not be distracting. Plain-colored walls, empty offices, stairwells, or any other location with neutral colors will work.
Just make sure you can control the lighting and that the location complements the overall message of the pictures.
Tip 3– Set up your Photography Studio
Having your own photography studio frees up your imagination from standard settings and lets you stand out from the competition. A studio will give you complete control of your photography work process. Besides, it also eliminates the heavy costs you incur while preparing for a shoot in a rented professional studio. Do read our article on how to set up your own photography studio.
Tip 4 - Mastering headshot posing
You can help your clients pose for natural and professional headshots that truly capture their personality and leave a lasting impression. Here are some tips:
Posture is paramount
Remind your clients to maintain good posture with shoulders back and chest out. This ensures a professional and polished look. Guide the chin slightly down and the face forward to avoid an awkward angle and maintain a flattering head position. Remember to adjust the angle further for a natural look.
Encourage movement
Get your clients comfortable by asking them to do a simple action, like walking towards the camera or having a casual conversation. This helps loosen them up and capture genuine expressions.
Leverage the environment
Suggest subtle leans against a wall, fence, or table to add visual interest without compromising posture.
Hand and arm placement
For a classic pose, have your client cross their arms while maintaining relaxed shoulders and open body language by slightly turning away from the camera.
For men, consider having them partially or fully place their hand(s) in their pockets, ensuring relaxed shoulders and proper chin position.
A single hand resting on the hip creates a modern and approachable feel for women. Keep the hand relaxed and positioned mid-hip.
Capture genuine smiles
Avoid forced smiles by asking your client to look away until just before capturing the shot. This allows for a natural and relaxed expression when they turn back to the camera.
Encourage a slight smile for a more professional headshot, and a bigger smile for a warmer and more approachable feel.
Tip 5–Get Creative with Wardrobe
Your headshot is a professional representation of yourself. Dress appropriately and work with your photographer to make an impact:
Focus on color
Colors in your headshot can subconsciously influence how viewers perceive you. For a professional and minimalist look, consider simple, neutral tones. Darker neutrals like black, brown, and navy are safe choices, as studio lights can sometimes wash out lighter colors.
However, in creative industries, bold colors can be a way to grab attention. Research colors that complement your skin tone, hair, and eyes for a vibrant and professional appearance.
Avoid distracting patterns
Busy patterns can create the "moiré effect," where they appear blurry and unrecognizable in photos. Minimize distractions and draw focus to your face with solid colors. If you prefer patterns, opt for simple stripes or polka dots and consider layering them under a solid-colored jacket.
Planning for black and white
Some companies use black-and-white headshots. To add visual interest in these, consider planning for contrast and tonality. For instance, a white shirt, navy blazer, and purple tie offer dimension even in black and white. Explore different shades within a color family to achieve this effect.
Dress for your industry
Align your attire with your profession's dress code. For example, individuals in law or real estate might opt for suits, while those in marketing or tech could choose business casual attire. In creative fields like graphic design, your headshot can be an opportunity to showcase your style.
Even in casual work environments, bring clothes slightly nicer than your everyday attire. Aim for the same level of professionalism you would use for an important meeting or client presentation. Consider a blazer, sweater, or other versatile item to elevate your look.
Accessorize minimally
The focus should be on your face. Opt for minimal accessories, ideally one or two at most. If you wear glasses that reflect light, remove the lenses for the photo or bring a spare pair without lenses. Style your hair and makeup as you would for a professional setting.
Variety is key
Many photographers recommend bringing multiple outfit options to your headshot session. This allows you to explore different looks and capture various professional images. For instance, a healthcare professional might take a photo in scrubs and another in business casual attire. Bringing options also allows you and the photographer to choose the most flattering colors, cuts, and fabrics under studio lighting.
Tip 6–Don’t Forget Good Composition
Just because headshots are simple doesn’t mean you can ignore the basics of composition. Keep in mind that the subject of your composition is your client’s face. What can you do to draw attention and accentuate your subject?
First, when looking for locations and backgrounds, remember that your goal is to make the subject stand out. So literally make them stand out; have them take a few steps away from the wall or backdrop and towards the camera. With a shallow depth of field, this will allow you to blur the background subtly and make the subject pop out of the image.
The rule of thirds still applies to headshots photography. By placing the subject off-center, you can effectively create multiple images from one frame just by cropping it. The uncropped photo can show more background, while a cropped square can be used for business cards or website photos. By combining a few creative composition techniques, your photos can serve any purpose and will be of greater value to your clients.
Look for lead lines and other patterns in the background, even though it will likely be blurred. Shapes and shadows will still be identifiable, especially if shooting on location in their office or outdoors.
In regards to composition, pay extra attention to clothing and wardrobe choices. Brightly colored, patterned, or flashy clothing choices can throw a headshot off-kilter faster than anything else. Neutral tones in solid colors are good choices since they are timeless and not distracting.
The most important tip of all for a headshot photographer, however, is to keep practicing. Theory can only take you so far: it’s only when you actually start to do things that you will be able to get yourself up to that expert level.
Tip 7 - Camera Equipment
There are no particular equipment requirements for a headshot photo if you are already set up for portraits. You’ll want a high-quality lens that has a nice bokeh. A DSLR camera offers excellent image quality and control over your shots, making it a great choice for professional headshots. When choosing a lens, look for options with a focal length of 50mm or longer, as these are ideal for portraits.
Achieving that beautiful blurred background, or "bokeh," depends mainly on your focal length.
50mm-85mm range is ideal for headshots as it allows for a comfortable working distance while delivering a pleasingly blurred background.
Lenses with even longer focal lengths (beyond 85mm) can further enhance the bokeh effect, creating a more dramatic blur. However, this also compresses the background and requires a greater shooting distance, which might not always be practical.
For a natural and familiar look, consider using a 50mm lens. This focal length closely resembles how we perceive the world through our eyes, making it ideal for capturing authentic and relatable headshots.
In a good headshot, the subject takes center stage while the background fades into the background. This allows viewers to focus on the person's face, expression, and personality.
- Shallow depth of field: This technique creates a blur in the background, drawing attention and emphasizing the subject in sharp focus.
- Aperture: Using a larger aperture (lower f-number) like f/2.8, on the lower end of the aperture scale helps achieve this shallow depth of field effect.
Also, make use of the power of modern-day smartphones! These pocket-sized powerhouses, especially iPhones, can capture professional-looking headshots, especially if you're on a budget. Utilize built-in features like burst mode and self-timers to capture multiple shots quickly and easily, even when working solo.
Tip 8 - Lighting setup for headshot photography
Lighting is your next biggest concern. Most headshots are high-key, meaning they are bright and evenly lit with few deep shadows. The easiest way to accomplish this look is with a diffused strobe. A beauty dish is perfect. You’ll want to set up the light above the client and add some fill from below to reduce shadows. If you’re outdoors, you may want to use natural light from above and fill light from each side of the camera. You’ll have to be a bit flexible with your setup, depending on the location.
While traditional headshots often rely on soft, white light against a white background, the possibilities are endless! Whether you're aiming for a classic look or something more dramatic, the important thing here is understanding how lighting affects the overall feel and tailoring it to your subject.
Finding the right light for your vision
Light is all about choice and achieving your desired look. Don't be afraid to experiment! Harsh light, like sunlight or a studio strobe, can create striking effects and add depth. Soft light, on the other hand, offers a flattering, natural look.
Matching light to your subject
Remember, light isn't just about technical aspects. Consider your subject's personality and desired image. Backlighting or strong shadows can convey drama or mystery, while soft light creates a more approachable and friendly feel.
Outdoor photography and challenges
Working outdoors can be rewarding, but be mindful of the sun. Harsh overhead light creates unwanted shadows. Finding shade is essential to avoid this issue. A reflector is also helpful in outdoor photography, allowing you to bounce light and fill in shadows for a balanced look.
Creating your perfect setup
Remember, the ideal headshot light is clean and even. This can be achieved naturally outdoors during golden hour or midday with diffused light. Indoors, position yourself near a window away from direct sunlight. Consider affordable lighting equipment or DIY solutions like a white paper reflector if natural light isn't enough.
Tips for beginners
Don’t worry about mastering harsh light or backlighting if you are just starting out. Use the magic of a cloudy day. The diffused sunlight creates a beautiful, soft, and even light perfect for portraits. Indoors, position yourself near a window with filtered light for similar results.
Tip 9- Headshot Photography Prices
Figuring out your headshot photography prices can be a bit of a challenge. You may want to poll other photographers in your area to see what the going rate is, simply as a starting point in your analysis. You’ll need to figure out how much time you spend on the shoot, setting up, taking the photos, and editing them in post-production. Headshot retouching services offer professional high-quality headshots at great prices.
The cost of headshot photography for groups and events can vary depending on several factors, including:
Number of people: The cost per person typically decreases as the group size increases.
Location: Photographers may charge a travel fee for shooting outside their studio.
Setup and teardown: Setting up and breaking down equipment may be included in the price or charged separately.
Editing: The level of retouching and editing included can impact the price.
Additional services: Photographers may offer additional services like group photos or assistant fees at an extra cost.
Here are some general pricing structures you can work on:
Individual headshots: $100-$250 per person, with discounts for larger groups.
Travel: $50-$100, depending on the distance.
Setup and teardown: $50-$200, depending on the complexity of the setup.
Editing: $0-$50 per image, depending on the level of retouching.
Group photos: $50-$200, depending on the group size.
Assistant fee: $100-$500, depending on the experience and responsibilities of the assistant.
Top 5 Headshot Photography Portfolios from Pixpa Users: A Curated Selection
Spotlight Headshots
Spotlight Headshots NYC provides exceptional face shot photography services for actors and creative professionals. The website prioritizes a clean, user-friendly interface that highlights its photography services.
The homepage showcases a gallery of standout headshots demonstrating the photographer's ability to capture subjects in the best light, with attention to detail and a keen eye for capturing personality.
Easy-to-use menus with clear categories such as Home, My Approach, FAQ, Testimonials, Rates, About, and Contact facilitate quick access to information and encourage user engagement.
Ion Berindan
Ion Berindan, a fashion photographer, presents a sleek, sophisticated design that mirrors Ion’s artistic and creative nature. Built with Pixpa, the website emphasizes visual content, showcasing Berindan's portfolio in a clear, accessible manner.
The website prioritizes high-resolution images, with galleries such as ‘Beauty’ demonstrating Berindan's expertise in combining headshots and fashion photography. This focus on imagery immediately engages visitors and provides a sense of the photographer's style and skill.
The design prioritizes minimalism, with a clean interface that allows the photographs to stand out. The integrated e-commerce functionality allows visitors to purchase prints directly from the website, enhancing user experience and monetization of the site.
Sam Davis
Sam Davis specializes in professional headshots in North London. His portfolio emphasizes headshot and portrait galleries, showcasing a wide range of high-quality, expressive photographs.
The website design is professional and sleek, focusing on showcasing the photography itself.
The site ensures users can easily find the information they need with clear sections such as About/Testimonials, Headshot Gallery, Portrait Gallery, Prices, FAQs, and Location. This streamlined navigation enhances the user experience, encouraging engagement and exploration.
The headshot gallery includes a select list of headshots in a grid format for easy exploration.
ChadCRG
ChadCRG Images, operated by Chad Greene in Lincoln, Nebraska, focuses on providing commercial and business headshot photography.
The website is structured to offer detailed information about face shot photography services, including rates, session details, clothing and makeup advice, turnaround time, and retouching options. This layout aims to answer potential clients' questions upfront, making the decision process easier.
The emphasis on clear, concise information shows that Chad follows a minimalist design approach. This allows the headshots, displayed in a grid layout, to stand out without distraction, showcasing Chad's ability to capture professional and appealing photos.
MTL Headshots
MTL Headshots, led by photographer Sasha Onyshchenko in Montreal, specializes in headshot photography services. The website showcases the studio's ability to create impactful professional stories through headshots.
This one-page website presents a clean, navigable design emphasizing the studio's headshot photography work, primarily in corporate headshots.
The gallery of corporate headshots in grid layouts looks professional and visually striking. The rates and contact information are strategically placed after the gallery to prompt us to take action.
How to Shoot Corporate Headshot Photography
While regular portraits and corporate headshots share similarities, one key difference sets them apart: consistency. Corporate headshots represent a company, so they must maintain a unified look and feel across all staff photos.
By following the below-mentioned tips, you can deliver high-quality, consistent corporate headshots that not only impress clients but also build your reputation and portfolio as a trusted professional photographer:
Achieving consistency
Match the brand: Focus on consistent color balance, background, and composition to reflect the company's brand identity.
Pose and direction: Decide with the client if everyone will face the same way or adopt a similar pose for a cohesive look.
Planning and Flexibility
Schedule efficiently: Photographing many people quickly requires a well-organized schedule, but be flexible as disruptions can occur.
Sweet spot timing: Aim for 30 minutes per person to accommodate individual needs and unexpected events.
Technical considerations
Focal length: Use lenses between 80-120mm to maintain a close, comfortable distance from subjects.
Lighting: Highlight the front of the face with a "key light" and add a subtle definition with a "kicker light" on the back. Avoid overly dark or moody lighting.
Creating a comfortable environment
Box for consistency: A wooden box helps ensure consistent head height for all subjects, regardless of their stature.
Focus on people: Prepare your setup beforehand so you can concentrate on building rapport and making subjects feel comfortable.
Capturing personality
Connect and engage: Go beyond technical aspects and build personal connections to capture genuine expressions.
Distract and direct: Ask questions about non-photography topics to help subjects relax and show their true selves.
Post-shoot workflow
Select wisely: Edit down photos to the best 15-20 per person to avoid overwhelming clients with choices.
Subtle retouching: Maintain a natural look with minimal retouching that enhances, not replaces, reality.
Building lasting relationships
Professionalism matters: Deliver photos on time, maintain good communication, and keep a client relationship management system for future projects.
Go the extra mile: Deliver exceptional service, exceed expectations, and personalize your approach to create loyal clients who become advocates for your work.
Conclusion
In some ways, headshot photography should be the backbone of pretty much every photographer’s business. With such a varied and consistent demand, and excellent options for word of mouth sales, the market potential is there no matter where you work. With tips for taking headshots, you can easily add the service to your business. The shots are quick and easy to take with a little practice, and there is a clear difference between professional headshots and selfies.
Displaying your images in a portfolio is also important if you want to be a professional photographer. You should be able to put together a consistent collection of images with a clear style so that potential customers will know what to expect from your work. Make sure that the photography website builder you choose offers the flexibility, features, and ease-of-use you need to put together professional photography portfolio websites without requiring any coding knowledge. That's where a bit of inspiration comes in handy.
FAQ’s
How to start a headshot photography business?
Starting a headshot photography business involves several key steps:
Gain Photography Skills: Ensure you have a solid understanding of photography, particularly in taking headshots. Consider taking photography courses or workshops to refine your skills.
Invest in Equipment: Purchase or upgrade to professional photography equipment, including a high-quality camera, lenses suitable for portraits, lighting equipment, and backdrops.
Build a Portfolio: Create a portfolio using Pixpa showcasing your best headshot work. This portfolio can be physical or digital, like a website or social media pages. Create a headshot photography portfolio now.
Set Your Pricing: Research the market to set competitive pricing for your services. Consider different packages based on client needs.
Market Your Business: Use various marketing strategies to promote your services. This can include social media marketing, networking with local businesses, and creating an SEO-friendly website.
Legal Formalities: Register your business, obtain necessary licenses or permits, and consider getting insurance to protect your equipment and business.
What Should I Consider for Outdoor Headshot Photography?
For outdoor headshot photography, consider the following:
Time of Day: The best outdoor lighting conditions are typically during the golden hour, shortly after sunrise, or before sunset, when the light is softer.
Location: Choose a location that complements the subject’s personality or profession and doesn’t distract from the focal point. Look for interesting but not overwhelming backgrounds.
Weather Conditions: Be prepared to adjust your schedule based on weather conditions. Overcast days can provide good natural lighting for headshots without harsh shadows.
Equipment: Use reflectors to manage natural light effectively, and consider using a diffuser to soften harsh sunlight if necessary.
Wardrobe and Makeup: Advise your clients on choosing outfits and makeup that work well in natural lighting and fit the outdoor setting.
Can You Make a Living from Solely Doing Portrait/Headshot Photography?
Yes, it is possible to make a living from solely doing portrait and headshot photography, but it requires dedication, skill, and effective business strategies. Consider the following:
Specialization: Specializing in headshots or portraits can set you apart and make you the go-to photographer for specific needs.
Building a Client Base: Networking, word-of-mouth referrals, and online presence can help build a steady stream of clients.
Diversification: While specializing, offering various headshot packages and catering to different markets (corporate, entertainment, personal branding) can increase your income streams.
Marketing: To reach potential clients, invest time and resources in marketing your services through social media, your website, and local advertising.
Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest photography trends, techniques, and technologies to keep your work relevant and appealing.