Choosing the Right Headshot Photographer for You
There’s no such thing as the “best” headshot photographer.
There’s only the right headshot photographer for you.
That might sound counterintuitive in a world of Instagram likes, awards, and “top 10” lists — but headshots are personal. What works beautifully for one person can completely miss the mark for another.
If you’re trying to choose a headshot photographer, here’s how to think about it in a way that actually serves you.
Start With the Real Question: What Is This Headshot For?
Before you look at portfolios or prices, get clear on the purpose of the photo.
Is this for:
Acting and casting?
Corporate or executive branding?
LinkedIn and professional networking?
Speaking, media, or personal brand?
Each of these requires a different approach — different lighting, framing, energy, and expression.
If a photographer doesn’t ask this question upfront, that’s a red flag.
A good headshot isn’t about looking “cool.”
It’s about looking right for what you’re trying to do.
Style Matters — But Comfort Matters More
Yes, style matters.
Moody vs bright. Clean vs dramatic. Studio vs environmental.
But here’s what matters more: how you feel in front of the camera.
Some photographers pose heavily.
Some barely direct at all.
Some coach expression moment by moment.
If you feel stiff, rushed, or judged, it will show — no matter how good the lighting is.
A great headshot isn’t about being photogenic.
It’s about feeling relaxed enough to be real.
Look at Full Galleries, Not Just Instagram Highlights
Instagram shows the hits. Real life shows consistency.
When reviewing a photographer’s work, ask:
Do people actually look like themselves?
Are the expressions varied or all the same?
Does everyone look confident — or just technically “well lit”?
The goal isn’t sameness.
The goal is consistency with individuality.
Ask How the Photographer Works — Not Just What They Shoot
Don’t be afraid to ask:
How do you work with people who hate being photographed?
How much direction do you give?
What happens if I’m nervous or awkward at first?
A photographer’s process matters as much as their portfolio.
You’re not just hiring someone to press a button.
You’re hiring someone to guide you through an experience.
Price Is About Experience, Not Just Photos
Headshot pricing isn’t just about the final image.
It reflects:
Time spent coaching and directing
Experience reading people
The ability to get strong results efficiently
Creating an environment where you can relax and trust the process
You’re not paying for a photo.
You’re paying for how you feel while it’s being made — and how confidently you show up in the final result.
Trust Your Gut
This part matters more than most people realize.
If you feel rushed, you’ll look rushed.
If you feel guarded, you’ll look guarded.
If you feel understood, you’ll look confident.
The right headshot photographer isn’t the one with the biggest following.
It’s the one who helps you recognize yourself in the image — and feel good using it.
If you’re not sure what style or approach fits you, I’m always happy to talk it through — even if we don’t end up working together.
Getting the right headshot starts with asking the right questions.Happy New Year from San Diego, California! Let’s talk about first impressions in this new year.
In today’s digital-first business world, your corporate headshot is almost always your first impression. Long before a meeting, interview or sales call, people see your image on LinkedIn, your company website, or a professional bio.
That single photograph quietly shapes perception.
A strong corporate headshot communicates credibility, confidence, and professionalism.
A weak or outdated one can undermine your personal brand without you realizing it.
If you’re investing in professional headshots or executive headshots, preparation matters. Here’s how to ensure your headshot works for your career.
1. Dress for Your Role, Industry, and Brand
Your wardrobe plays a major role in how your headshot is perceived — especially for LinkedIn headshots and business portraits.
Best practices for corporate headshots:
Choose solid colors over patterns
Avoid logos, busy prints, and shiny fabrics
Wear well-fitted clothing appropriate for your role
Darker tones project authority; lighter tones feel more approachable
Your clothing should support your professional image, not distract from it.
2. Grooming Should Be Clean and Professional
High-quality photography reveals details that everyday mirrors don’t.
Before your corporate headshot session:
Hair clean and neatly styled
Facial hair trimmed or clean-shaven
Natural, professional makeup
Minimal jewelry and accessories
These small details make a significant difference in professional business headshots.
3. Expression Is the Most Important Part of a Corporate Headshot
The most common mistake in corporate headshots is a forced or uncomfortable smile.
Your expression should communicate:
Confidence
Trustworthiness
Approachability
Calm authority
Strong expressions come from professional coaching, not from being told to “smile.” This is what separates average headshots from effective executive and corporate portraits.
4. Posture and Body Language Create Executive Presence
Body language plays a huge role in how you’re perceived.
During your headshot session:
Sit or stand tall without stiffness
Relax your shoulders and jaw
Lean slightly toward the camera
Keep your posture open and natural
These subtle adjustments create confidence and leadership presence — especially important for executive headshots.
5. Don’t Overthink the Process
People look tense when they try to control every detail.
Your role:
Show up prepared
Trust the process
Follow direction
A professional corporate headshot photographer manages lighting, angles, and expression so you don’t have to.
6. Choose a Photographer Who Specializes in Corporate Headshots
Not all photographers approach business portraits the same way.
If you’re booking corporate or professional headshots, look for someone who:
Specializes in business and executive photography
Understands LinkedIn and corporate branding
Coaches expression and posture
Creates modern, clean, authentic portraits
Your headshot should align with your industry, role, and long-term professional goals.
Final Thought
In business, your headshot is part of your brand.
A strong corporate portrait doesn’t just show what you look like — it builds trust, reinforces credibility, and supports your professional reputation before you ever speak.
If your current headshot no longer reflects who you are or the level you operate at, it may be time for an update.