3 Steps to Get an Appealing and Effective Headshot Photo
Every image you use to market yourself and your business gives potential customers clues about who you are and what you do.In real estate, for instance, the listing photos and stock images an agent chooses become a part of her brand. For better or worse, they're more revealing than any bio or mission statement could be.
The same is true for headshot images. The right one will appeal to the clients you want and grow your business.The wrong one? Well, Google it. You'll find post after post about the negative impact a bad headshot can have.Fortunately, it's not hard to get a headshot that will work for you. Here are 3 steps that will set you on the right track:
- Figure out who your ideal client is. This step determines everything from your headshot background to your outfit choices. Do you want to pull in high-end customers in an uber-professional field? If so, you may want to wear a suit and opt for an elegant, indoor setting. To other client demographics, though, a formal headshot might seem intimidating or out of place. Take some time to think about who you want to do business with, and create a headshot that will appeal to him!
- Plan Your Outfit, Accessories, and More in Advance. Once you've decided on an aesthetic that clients you want will respond to, don't wait to pull that look together. Choose your clothing and jewelry before the day of the shoot. Giving yourself time to try things on, and have them cleaned or pressed if necessary, will save you from last-minute hangups that could derail your headshot. Likewise, if you're debuting a new hairstyle or facial hair, take a few days to practice styling it, or go in for a trial run with the professional who's doing that for you!
- Hire a professional photographer whose images you love. Photographers who specialize in headshots should have examples of their work available for you to browse. If those examples don't match the style you've decided on, don't hire them! Many professionals are flexible and can accommodate indoor or outdoor shoots in a variety of styles, but you might be surprised by how many will still shoot just one way, all the time.
As investments in marketing go, headshots are a pretty low cost/high use tool. If we can help you create professional portraits that fit your brand, get in touch.Here's who you'll reach: in the spirit of this post, it's us, in headshot form!
