As a professional headshot photographer with over 5 years of experience, Austen Hunter has worked with thousands of women to help them create powerful, eye-catching headshots. In today's competitive world, a professional headshot is an essential tool for women looking to enhance their online presence, make a lasting impression, and open doors to new opportunities. In this article, Austen shares his top 6 headshot tips for women, ensuring you look incredible and get noticed. Let's dive into these expert tips and help you create a stunning headshot that truly stands out!
Short Summary:
A professional headshot is a vital tool for personal branding, especially in today's digital age, with suitable attire and colors playing an important role in creating an impactful image.
Proper preparation, including planning the hairstyle, makeup, hydration, and rest, can significantly enhance the quality of a headshot, making it appear more radiant and professional.
A relaxed and positive mindset during the photo session is key to capturing a genuine and approachable headshot, which can be facilitated by an experienced headshot photographer.
Regularly updating your headshots when your appearance or personal brand changes ensures your image remains current, authentic, and relevant to your audience.
Table of Contents:
Why Professional Headshots are Important
In an increasingly digital age, a professional headshot is an important part of your personal brand and image. According to LinkedIn, profiles with professional headshots receive 14 times more views than those without. They provide a key visual element in establishing a strong online presence, fostering trust and credibility with potential employers, clients, or business partners. As the saying goes, "You never get a second chance to make a first impression" – and in the digital world, your headshot is often that first impression.
1. Choose the Right Outfit for your Headshot
Choosing the right outfit for your professional headshot can be the difference between a headshot that shines or falls flat. Your clothing should reflect your personal brand, resonate with your target audience, and make you feel confident. Here's some tips to do just that:
Know Your Target Audience: Consider who you're trying to impress and what message you want to convey. For example, a corporate lawyer may opt for a suit, while a creative professional might choose something more casual and artistic.
Coordinate Your Outfit with Your Brand: Your outfit should align with your personal brand and the image you want to project. If you're unsure, stick to classic and timeless pieces that exude professionalism.
Fit, Style, and Professionalism: Opt for clothing that fits well, flatters your figure, and is appropriate for your profession. Avoid clothing that's too tight, revealing, or overly casual.
Consider Necklines and Sleeves: Choose necklines that frame your face and accentuate your features. V-necks, boat necks, and scoop necks are flattering options for most women. Additionally, consider sleeve length, as it can affect the overall balance of your headshot.
Incorporating these tips will help you create the perfect headshot ensemble, but for even more detailed advice, don't miss our comprehensive guide on what to wear for headshots to make your photoshoot a success.
2. Select Colors and Accessories that Flatter
The colors you choose for your outfit and accessories significantly impact your headshot's overall look. Selecting colors that harmonize with your skin tone creates a visually appealing image, while coordinating with your brand colors ensures alignment with your professional identity. Thoughtful color choices help draw attention to your face, keeping the focus on you.
Complement Your Skin Tone and Brand Colors: To complement your skin tone, choose clothing colors that accentuate your natural complexion. For darker skin tones, opt for earthy hues like olive green or rich browns, while lighter skin tones are flattered by colors such as navy blue, jewel tones, or crisp whites. Keep in mind that you can also use the background of your headshot to compliment your skin tone or branding colors as well.
Selecting Jewelry and Accessories: Keep jewelry to a minimum and choose simple, understated pieces. Accessories should enhance your look, not distract from your face.
3. Plan Hairstyle and Makeup
The right hairstyle and makeup for your professional headshot can make all the difference in your headshot, highlighting your best features and creating a polished, professional look that captures your personality and conveys your personal brand effectively. Consider these tips:
Hire a Professional Stylist: Consider hiring a professional stylist to ensure your hair and makeup are polished and camera-ready. They can create a tailored look that suits your profession and personal style.
DIY Tips for a Camera-Ready Look: If you prefer to style yourself, practice your look beforehand and use products that enhance your natural features without looking overdone. Test different hairstyles and makeup techniques to find the perfect balance for your headshot.
Hair and Makeup Guidelines: Keep your hairstyle simple and timeless. Avoid overly trendy or complicated styles. For makeup, aim for a natural look that highlights your best features. Avoid heavy foundation, bold eyeshadows, and dramatic lip colors.
4. Hydrate and Prepare for the Session
Proper hydration and skin care play a crucial role in preparing to create a stunning headshot that showcases your best features. When your skin is well-hydrated and cared for, it appears smoother, more radiant, and healthier, setting the stage for a polished and professional image.
Stay Hydrated: Make it a priority to drink plenty of water leading up to your photo session, as this helps your skin look fresh and radiant. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption, as they can dehydrate your skin.
Get Plenty of Rest: Aim for at least 7-8 hours of quality sleep the night before your session to minimize dark circles and puffiness. Being well-rested will make a noticeable difference in your appearance.
Avoid Certain Treatments: It's best to skip facial treatments, waxing, and masks the day before your session to prevent redness or irritation. Stick to your regular skincare routine and avoid trying new products right before the shoot to ensure your skin looks its best.
For more detailed guidance on optimizing your headshot session preparation, don't miss this informative blog post on how to prepare for your headshot session, which offers valuable insights and tips to help you get ready.
5. Relax and Feel Good
Your mindset and level of relaxation during the session can significantly impact the outcome of your headshot. Approaching the session with confidence and a positive attitude can make all the difference.
Practice and Relaxation Techniques: Before your session, practice your smile and explore relaxation techniques to help calm your nerves. Taking deep breaths and visualizing a positive outcome can help you feel more at ease during the shoot.
Enjoy the Process: Remember to have fun and enjoy the process during your session. When you're relaxed and confident, it will result in a more genuine and approachable headshot.
Collaborate with a Skilled Headshot Photographer: Even if you're pretty confident in front of the camera, working with a headshot photographer is essential. Headshots are a unique specialty within photography, and experienced headshot photographers will understand the proper techniques and coaching required to help you relax and create a natural, confident headshot.
6. Bonus FAQ
Q: What should I wear for a professional headshot?
A: Choose an outfit that reflects your personal brand, resonates with your target audience, and makes you feel confident. Opt for clothing that fits well and is appropriate for your profession.
Q: How do I choose the right colors for my headshot?
A: Select colors that complement your skin tone and align with your brand's colors. Generally, jewel tones and earthy colors work well for most skin tones.
Q: Should I hire a professional stylist for my headshot session?
A: Hiring a professional stylist can ensure your hair and makeup are polished and camera-ready. However, if you prefer to style yourself, practice your look beforehand and use products that enhance your natural features.
Q: How can I achieve a natural smile for my headshot?
A: Practice your smile beforehand and use relaxation techniques to calm your nerves during the session. Work with a skilled photographer who can help put you at ease and provide helpful direction.
Q: How often should I update my headshots?
A: Update your headshots regularly, especially when your appearance or personal brand has significantly changed. This will ensure your image remains current, authentic, and professional.
A well-executed headshot can be a game-changer for your personal brand and professional image. By following these top 6 headshot tips for women, you'll be on your way to creating an incredible headshot that sets you apart from the competition. Remember to consider your target audience, choose the right outfit and colors, invest in a camera-ready hair and makeup look, prioritize hydration and skin care, and maintain a positive mindset throughout the process. Don't miss the opportunity to showcase your best self; book your next headshot session with Austen Hunter and get ready to make a lasting impression!
Austen Hunter Photography is a Pensacola, Florida photographer who specializes in family portraits, military portrait photography and headshot photography from Destin and 30A Florida, to Pensacola and Orange Beach, Alabama. Austen Hunter has been locally recognized, internationally published, and is known for his bold and clean photographic style. He uses a variety of both natural light and off-camera flash to capture images. Make a great first impression: Book with Austen today.
