5 tips for better headshots (that actually make a difference)
A good headshot is like a good handshake – it gives people a feel for who you are. Your character, your energy and maybe even your intentions. It’s not just about how you look but how people feel when they see your photo.
Before I take someone’s photo, I send out a short questionnaire. It’s simple but very intentional. The most important question? “How do you want your photos to make you feel?”
followed by “How would you describe your business in three words?”
These answers are the foundation of the whole experience and help shape the direction of a photoshoot and create images that actually say something about you. So that in mind, what other questions should you ask yourself to get better headshots?
1. What is the purpose of getting a new headshot?
Before we even start thinking about poses or locations, we need to get clear on why you need a headshot in the first place.
Headshots can serve different purposes depending on your role and industry. Are you an entrepreneur building your online presence and personal brand? Or are you working within a company that requires a more consistent, corporate look? Each path calls for a slightly different approach. Understanding your reasons helps me guide the session to suit your goals.
One of the other things I ask clients is: Where do you see yourself using these photos?
The answer often determines other factors like what kind of background makes sense (whether we want a polished studio feel or a more relaxed, lifestyle vibe) and therefore what kind of energy you want your images to give off.
Every detail adds up to the full picture and starting with clarity makes sure we’re not just creating a “nice photo of you” but one that works hard for you.
2. What should I wear for my headshot session?
One of the most common questions for me.
And my answer is always the same – wear something that feels like you.
If you feel confident and comfortable in what you’re wearing, it will come through in your photos. On the other side, if you show up in something that doesn’t feel natural (like a dress you’d never normally wear to work), that discomfort will show in your photos. Your outfit should reflect your day-to-day personality, not just what you think looks good in a photo.
That said, a few simple style tips to help you choose:
Fit matters. Make sure whatever you wear fits well and feels good.
Colour matters too. Use colour to express your personality. Bold colour is great but I usually recommend avoiding busy patterns, stripes or solid black as your main outfit. Black tends to feel flat and can swallow the light, especially in natural settings.
Brand colours? Great idea. You don’t have to wear your exact brand palette head to toe. Even a small accent in a scarf, earrings or top can tie everything together in a subtle, intentional way. If you have a uniform, it’s a good idea to have a few shots wearing it.
When in doubt, go neutral. Earth tones, pastels and neutral palette work beautifully on most people and in most settings. Layering also allows us to change up your look without a full outfit swap.
3. How can I tell a story with my location?
Where you choose to have your headshots taken isn’t just a backdrop but a part of your brand story. A well-chosen location adds layers to your photos. It helps your audience get a feel for what it’s like to work with you before you’ve even said a word.
The right setting communicates personality, professionalism and the vibe of your business. If you need a more corporate-style headshot, a clean, simple background is great – sometimes less is more, especially when consistency across a company is the goal.
But if you’re hoping to connect with your audience on a more personal level, the location becomes a tool to show more of you. Ask yourself:
Where would I usually meet my clients? What kind of space reflects how I work or want people to feel around me?
Maybe it’s your home office, your creative studio, a local café you love or even your local area that feels aligned with your brand. If nature or local landmarks are inspiration in your work, then an outdoor shoot can feel authentic and intentional, not distracting.
4. How can I achieve natural expressions in my photos?
Your natural expression matters more than the perfect pose. That’s why I always start my sessions with a chat, a coffee and a gentle run-through of what to expect. It’s not just small talk, it’s an intentional pause to take the pressure off and help you ease into the experience.
I honestly can’t remember a single person who’s told me they love having their photo taken, especially not when it comes to headshots. That’s totally normal and it’s why so much of my job is about helping you feel comfortable, not just looking good on camera.
You won’t be forced into fake smiles. I make it my job to act like a fool if need be but more so I pay attention to the little things – your gestures, expressions, even the tells that show up when you’re nervous. It’s about capturing you in a way that feels honest.
Even though we don’t have hours to get to know each other, I find the relaxed start and little breaks go a long way. And if you’re open to stepping slightly outside your comfort zone (just for a bit), chances are, you’ll walk away surprised by how much you actually enjoyed it. I like to think I have good ways for making that happen.
5. How to choose the right headshot photographer?
Working with someone who gets you – your ideas, your vision, your vibe, makes all the difference. A good headshot session is more than just pointing the camera and clicking at the right time. It’s a creative collaboration, built on trust and clear intention.
Natural light plays a big role in my work because it creates a softer, more honest feel compared to a studio light. But it’s not just about the technicalities. Choosing a photographer, whose presence makes you feel safe and at ease, will always come through in the photos.
Headshots, when done well, say a lot in that tiny little profile circle. The best ones say something about you. They make you memorable. And they reflect more than just how you look.
Like any meaningful creative process, it’s a co-creation. And when you’re working with someone who understands that, the results speak volumes.
Does your current headshot (on your website, socials, PR or even your work lanyard) truly represent you? As a person, a business owner, a professional?
Or are you still hiding behind a logo on your social media profile picture, even in a business that’s built on personal connection?
Maybe your profile photo is from 10 years ago when you first started out and it no longer reflects who you are today.
If it’s time for an update, I’d love to help. You can get in touch with me [here] or browse my branding page [here] to explore more about my work in Southend/Leigh on Sea area in Essex.
