What are Business Headshots?
Posted on 30th July 2024 at 10:58
What are Business Headshots? Everything you need to know in 2024
A headshot for business is a photo created to make a great first impression.
What is a headshot?
A business headshot is a form of portrait photograph, where the subject is aware that the photo is being taken, and it is intended for commercial use.
It is a camera captured photo, close up and focussed on the eyes, looking directly into the camera. Typically the whole head of the person is shown, along with their shoulders. The background, whilst important, is not the main feature.
It is often the first thing someone will see of you, as people search the web in advance of face to face meetings to find out who they will be dealing with.
The intention is to show an authentic depiction of the business person, and forms part of corporate photography.
What are headshots used for?
Business headshots are used to engage with a certain audience. This is often the first impression people get of you, whether it is potential clients, employers or peers.
Making a great first impression through a fabulous headshot can be the difference between clinching a job or engaging with a new client.
Use of a headshot can range from profile pictures on LinkedIn, to the about section of a website, annual reports, PR, author profiles and acting or modelling portfolios.
Knowing how you will use the headshots can inform how they are taken, and ultimately how you want to come across.
Do I need a professional business headshot?
The intended purpose of a headshot is to show the business side of you. That could be anything ranging from serious and professional to quirky and fun. Whatever it is, the headshot will reflect your personal brand or the business brand.
That is why a selfie or a holiday snap as a business headshot just won't do.
Despite the capabilities of mobile phones, having a professional headshot does set you apart and communicate more.
A professional photographer will be able to quickly construct a photo that is high quality and portrays the best version of you at that time.
Who needs business headshots?
Due to the increase in reliance on the internet, especially since the 2020 pandemic, many more people are seeking professional business headshots.
It is relatively obvious that business leaders need photos for their personal brand. They may be more prominent on their business website, be featured in the company report and accounts, and build their reputation through press releases.
Articles and posts on LinkedIn are an ideal way to position them as thought leaders, and business headshots go alongside these things. Aspiring business leaders will also be using these tools to build their brand and therefore require headshots.
Additionally, more and more businesses want their staff to have increased visibility. After all, 'people buy from people' and when searching websites having photos of employees can make the difference between making contact or scrolling on.
With LinkedIn being used heavily for recruitment, graduates and young people in business are increasingly seeking professional business headshots to stand out from the crowd.
What to consider for your business headshots
Choosing a professional photographer for your headshot needs careful consideration. The two main elements to decide upon are firstly a studio photo (flat backdrop, studio lights) vs location photography (usually the background out of focus so it becomes textures and colours), and secondly style of photograph. Then you can search websites near you with an informed direction.
When preparing for the photography session, clothes and expression are the next things to consider.
Remember that it will be your head and shoulders showing and whilst it is therefore only a glimpse of your clothes, they will have impact. Colours, pattern and style all combine to build the impression. Think about taking a selection to try, and see how you like the different outfits in the photos, and whether you want to be formal or informal. Either way, being authentically you in your headshot is important.
Your photographer should direct you on posing and help you to show a range of expressions for you to choose from when you receive the selection of photographs. They may also be able to provide you with a guide on how to prepare for your headshots.
Feeling confident for your business headshot
Knowing now what a business headshot is and how it can be used in a variety of marketing material, enables you to choose the right photographer for you. It also informs some of your decision making in the pre shoot preparation. Ultimately, good preparation will give you confidence, which in turn should mean you are more relaxed for your business headshot. This will undoubtedly produce great photos that you will be proud to use.
For business headshots in the London area, and in Berkshire, Surrey and the Home Counties, get in touch.
Tagged as: business headshots, Headshot photography
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