Taking selfies and videos are common pastimes. However, the photos you post on your social media may not be the best photo to use as a professional headshot to add to a resume or a LinkedIn profile. Before taking a professional headshot, you need to decide which type to take. Editorial headshots are “usually taken within the place of work” (Cook, 2019) which makes them an “original and creative approach” (Cook, 2017). For example, an artist may take their portrait in their art room or workspace. Another type of headshot is the professional portrait or headshot where you are the main subject. Once you decide which type of headshot to take, consider the following aspects!
Smile
Smile naturally, whether that be with showing your teeth or not. If you have trouble smiling on command, think of something that makes you relaxed and happy or something that makes you laugh.
Light Makeup
Do not go overboard with makeup. If you choose to wear makeup, use it to emphasize your facial features rather than dominant over them.
Background
Have a simple background. Avoid one that is busy, disorganized so it does not “detracts from the headshot” (Arruda, 2018).
Professional Attire
There are no strict rules for attire. A good rule of thumb is dress as would
There isn’t a strict rule for ‘what to wear’, so long as your outfit reflects your company. In startups, for example, a much more “relaxed” style has been adapted. Jeans, t-shirts, and trainers are allowed, the idea behind it is that dress how would for a normal workday. Cook suggests that men should wear their “favorite suit in a preferably dark color, such as grey or navy blue” (2017). Women should wear “a professional suit or a classic office-wear outfit” (2017). Women should avoid fleshy jewelry. Both men and women should avoid bold or distracting colors.
Posture
Reflect your values and morals through your headshot. Aim to look confident. Avoid crossing your arms or putting your hands in your pocket to avoid looking unapproachable (Cook, 2017.
Each individual’s professional headshot varies to align with his or her goals, values, and personality. In general, know who your audience is going to be in terms of their attire and age groups. Convey a specific message to your specific audience such as “I am the right person for the job”.
To understand what makes a great headshot, examine the following headshots by Jeff Weiner, LinkedIn’s Ceo; Mabel Casey, an executive; and Charles Garcia, an executive; and Gretchen Rubin, an author (Arruda, 2018).
References
Arruda, W. (2018, September 5). The best LinkedIn headshots and how to create yours. Retrieved March 20, 2020, from https://www.forbes.com/sites/williamarruda/2018/09/05/the-best-linkedin-headshots-and-how-to-create-yours/#137a420c6d2f
Cook, P. (2019, May 16). Corporate headshot: tips and do’s & dont’s. Retrieved March 20, 2020, from https://www.meero.com/en/news/corporate/402/How_To_Prepare_For_Corporate_Headshots_The_Ultimate_Guide
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