In today’s competitive business environment, a professional studio headshot can be a powerful asset to your personal brand and corporate image. Whether you’re an executive looking to enhance your LinkedIn profile or a company aiming to update team photos for your website, a well-crafted headshot can make a significant impact. Here’s what you need to know before scheduling your next professional studio headshot to ensure that you get the most out of your investment.
1. Define the Purpose and Style
Before your session, clarify the purpose of your headshot. Are you looking to convey a formal corporate image, or are you aiming for a more approachable and casual look? Understanding the purpose will guide your choice of attire, background, and overall style. Consider how you want to be perceived by your audience and discuss these details with your photographer. This ensures that your headshot aligns with your professional goals and brand image.
2. Choose the Right Attire
Your clothing choices play a crucial role in how your headshot is perceived. Opt for attire that reflects your professional role and industry. Solid colors and classic styles generally work best, as they avoid distractions and keep the focus on your face. Avoid overly bright colors, busy patterns, or anything that might clash with the studio background. Make sure your clothes are well-fitted and comfortable, as this will help you feel more relaxed and confident during the shoot.
3. Grooming and Preparation
Proper grooming is essential for a polished headshot. Make sure your hair is styled as you typically wear it for work, and if you wear makeup, keep it professional and natural. Pay attention to details such as clean, manicured nails and avoid excessive jewelry that might draw attention away from your face. It’s also wise to get a good night’s sleep before the shoot to ensure you look fresh and well-rested.
4. Communicate with Your Photographer
A successful headshot session relies on clear communication between you and your photographer. Discuss your expectations, preferences, and any concerns you might have before the shoot. A professional photographer will provide guidance on posing and expressions to capture your best angles and convey the desired message. Additionally, they will assist with lighting, composition, and background choices to ensure that your headshot is both flattering and effective.
5. The Importance of Lighting and Background
Lighting is a key element in professional photography, and it’s crucial for achieving a high-quality headshot. A well-lit photo will highlight your features and ensure that the image is sharp and clear. In a studio setting, you can benefit from controlled lighting conditions that can be tailored to your needs. The background should be simple and complementary, avoiding any distractions that might detract from your appearance.
6. Post-Production and Final Touches
After the shoot, the post-production process involves editing the images to enhance their quality and ensure they meet professional standards. This may include color correction, retouching, and cropping. A skilled photographer will use advanced editing techniques to produce a final image that looks natural and polished, while still representing you authentically.
7. Repurposing Your Headshot
A high-quality headshot is a versatile asset that can be used across various platforms and materials. From your company website and social media profiles to email signatures and business cards, a well-crafted headshot ensures a consistent and professional appearance. It’s worth discussing with your photographer how to best repurpose your images for different uses.
Why Choose St Louis Business Portraits
At St Louis Business Portraits, we understand the importance of a professional headshot in shaping your corporate image. As a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, we are equipped with the right tools and creative expertise to deliver exceptional results. Since 1982, we’ve been serving businesses, marketing firms, and agencies in the St. Louis area, providing top-notch studio and location video and photography services.
Our private studio lighting and visual setups are ideal for both small productions and intricate interview scenes. We can incorporate props to enhance your set and offer a range of services from custom interview studio setups to providing sound and camera operators. Our specialized indoor drones and comprehensive post-production capabilities ensure that your headshots and videos are of the highest quality.
With extensive experience in repurposing photography and video branding, St Louis Business Portraits is well-versed in all file types, media styles, and accompanying software. Trust us to help you make a lasting impression with a professional headshot that truly represents your brand. Contact us today to schedule your session and discover how we can elevate your corporate image.
stlouisphotos@gmail.com
Mike Haller
Studio – 4501 Mattis Road St Louis, MO 63128
St Louis Business Portraits 