What actually is Headshot Photography?

You probably have seen many headshot photos in your life. However, what actually qualifies a photo as a ‘headshot’. Let’s explore the different kinds of photography styles and even explain some tips to help you get great headshots.

What is a headshot?

A headshot is typically a tightly cropped photo of a person's face, from their shoulders up. Headshots can be used for professional as well as business purposes. The subject is camera aware- so usually looking directly into the lens. Headshots used to be reserved only for actors and models for their portfolio. However nowadays, businesses use headshots of their staff on websites and business cards for marketing purposes. Because of this, the quality of the headshot photograph is very important. They should be well lit, have sharp focus, and only include one person.

With technology these days, you can ensure that your headshots are visually pleasing by utilising different headshot retouching software to enhance your images. These apps and programs can help by removing skin defects like pimples or dark circles, and even edit by getting rid of some stray hair. You can even improve makeup to meet any requirements.

The difference between a headshot and a portrait:

The difference between headshots and portraits is that headshots usually just include the subject’s face, whereas portraits often will include the body as well. You might find that portraits are taken in a more artistic nature, while headshots are kept to a stricter, more professional standard. You can still be creative with a headshot, especially if the image is specifically for an artist or entertainer, but it’s important for each headshot to convey the message and the professionalism of the person.

Types of Headshots

There are many types of headshots which people will ask photographers for:

● Corporate Headshot: This style is generally used for business executives like real estate agents, and are used in a number of ways. The images can be used as advertising on signage, or business cards and brochures on websites. Conveying the right message through the image is extremely important as that photo not only represents the individual, but it represents the whole company.

● Professional Headshot: This style is used by a lot of doctors and staff members of businesses. Guest speakers and even social media influencers, also use this style to showcase themselves in public. The benefit of a professional headshot means that the photos can be printed on business cards and branded documents, hung on walls, and posted on the internet.

● Actor Headshot: This style often serves as an actor’s resume. A lot of the time, actor’s are hired based on that photograph, so must be effective and impressive which expresses exactly who they are.

● Modelling Headshot: Like headshots for actors, modelling headshots are equally as important having an impressive headshot is imperative as it is their calling card.

Tips for getting a great headshot:

1. Plan ahead to figure out what the photo is going to be used for. It may need to match the company’s branding or their logo, also to align with previous photos which may already be on the website. You will also need to look at any specific colours they might have in mind. Finally it’s important to know what kind of mood and message they are wanting to portray in the photo to plan accordingly.

2. Be natural, and make sure hair and makeup are the usual way it would be. The purpose of this photo is to look like themselves and not too done up or fake looking. 3. When it comes to the outfit, keep it simple and make sure it is ironed with no creases! Go with neutral colours which are solid, and stay away from prints to keep the focus on the face.

4. Focus on the eyes, as nothing is more important than having a sharp focus on the eyes in a headshot.

5. Diffuse the light so that skin will look softer. You can achieve this by being outdoors or shooting on a cloudy day, or even with a light modifier in the studio.

6. Try different poses like a head tilt, or a chin forward, or even a hand in the frame. Try a few poses until you find one that works. There might be one that is more natural and has been ‘practised’ for years in candid photos that will be easier and less forced.

7. Lean into the camera. An impactful tip is to lean your weight on one foot toward the camera. By leaning toward the camera, you’ll appear to stretch out your neck (avoid a double chin), create a stronger jawline, and even bring your eyes into focus.

While headshots might seem like a bit of a boring style of photography, in reality it can be as creative or as simple as you decide them to be. There are actually endless options and potential when it comes to creating a headshot with aspects such as lighting, posing, clothing, backgrounds, and props. There’s even a bit of a satisfying challenge when it comes to thinking of new ideas! At Headshots Express whether you are just needing one person to have their photo taken, or one hundred people who need their headshots from a Professional Headshot Photographer, allow Michelle to apply her creativity and enthusiasm to create your professional images. Contact her today for a free quote.