Whether you’re submitting a job application on LinkedIn, or a potential client is browsing your company’s About Us page, people make snap judgments about you based on your photograph. As much as we all may wish these initial impressions were reserved for the first interaction, that’s not always the case. This is why having high-quality and up-to-date professional headshots can help you get ahead of the game.
WHY ITS IMPORTANT TO UPDATE YOUR HEADSHOTS
Updated professional headshots showcase your professionalism, leaving behind a better first impression. After all, what might a potential customer think about a company whose employees all have mismatched or poor quality photos? They’re probably not convinced the organization has adequate resources or an eye for detail. You should update your headshot immediately if your current photograph was not professionally shot. A selfie or a grainy photograph can make you look less credible — or, dare we say it, even lazy.
Your professional headshot should be an accurate portrayal of yourself and representative of your actual age and experience level. A 10-year-old headshot can make you look less experienced than you are. While this might attract more likes on a dating app, an old headshot may take away from the high level of expertise you’ve worked hard to earn.
In addition to natural aging, an updated headshot is necessary after you’ve made major changes to your appearance. This could be a new hairstyle, facial hair, major weight loss, or something else. You should be easily recognizable from your photo. Lastly, your headshot should also reflect the brand you’re representing. For example, if you’re working at a hip startup, you may want to show off your colorful tattoos in your headshot. On the other hand, you may wish to cover up for a photo for your more conservative corporate accounting firm.
BEST PRACTICES FROM A PROFESSION HEADSHOT PHOTOGRAPHER
Getting photos taken isn’t always a natural feeling, so here is some expert advice on how to get the best results from your professional headshots.
WHAT MAKES A GOOD HEADSHOT?
A good headshot is one that showcases the real you with great lighting, the right angle, and a genuine smile. Hair and makeup should be neat, while still looking like yourself. Your headshot should exude professionalism and confidence. We always recommend working with a professional photographer for the best results.
RELATED: What Makes a Great Professional Headshot
WHAT TO WEAR FOR PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOTS
What you wear for your headshot should be in line with your industry and brand. For example, if you work in an office setting, a dress shirt and blazer is a safe bet. If you’re a hairstylist, you may want to wear something more casual that showcases your personality.
Here are some general tips:
- Wear clothes in contrasting tones — like tones can blend together in black and white images.
- Avoid patterns and stripes.
- Keep accessories to a minimum.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU UPDATE YOUR HEADSHOT?
A good rule of thumb is to update your headshots every two to three years. However, if you make major changes to your style, appearance, or job position before then, you should update your photos more frequently.
ITS TIME TO UPDATE YOUR HEADSHOT!
If you’re wondering why you should keep your headshot up-to-date, it’s probably a sign you’re due for a new one! Daniel Motta is an award-winning photographer based in the Dallas-Fort Worth area with extensive experience in professional headshot photography.
Not local? No problem. Daniel travels around the country shooting professional headshots in big cities like Chicago, Miami, and Philadelphia. You’re welcome to visit our studio in Dallas, or we can come to you and visit your office to photograph the whole team in their element. Contact us today to get your next photo shoot for updated headshots booked today.
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