Update Your Website With Fresh New Headshots You'll Love

I've recently took all new photography for my website after realizing it’s already been three years since my last pictures. Like most financial advisors, I was dreading my photo shoot.

Almost every time I speak with a new advisor client, they mention that they need to take new headshots. But how many advisors actually send over fresh new photos for their websites and social profiles? Less than 10 percent.

Most of us don’t look forward to taking new photos, so we put it off for months or years. But fresh new photography doesn’t have to be a headache. Here’s the quick and easy way to get new headshots that you will love.

1. Don’t Underestimate the Magic of a Good Photographer

You will be amazed at the results a talented photographer can get using the right lighting and body positioning. Because I have a boisterous 11-month-old baby who enjoys waking up at 5:45 every morning, I don’t look particularly well-rested in real life. But thanks to the art of photography, you can’t see my dark circles in my photos!

By choosing a talented photographer, it’s easy to get photos that make you look your best, no matter what. Try to get a good night’s sleep, drink a lot of water, and trust that your photographer will make you look great.

2. Don’t Make a Big Deal About it

If you make a big deal about getting your new photos, you’ll naturally put them off. Remember that you should get a new headshot every three to five years, so these are only temporary. Don’t overthink it and don’t stress about getting the perfect image. Aim for two versions of your business headshot and perhaps three or four additional photos if you’d like to update your website photography.

3. Shoot for Less Than One Hour

One way to stop putting off your shoot is to make it easier to execute. Don’t plan for multiple locations or waste a half day on your photos. Tell your photographer that you have less than one hour from start to finish and they’ll be sure to get the images they need within that time frame. My total shoot was just about 40 minutes.

4. Only Use One Outfit

I recommend avoiding multiple wardrobe changes to make things easy. Choose your most flattering business outfit and plan to shoot all of your images in that. Most people look best in solid colors like light blue or Navy blue. Be sure to wear something understated that won’t distract from your face.

5. Hire the Best Photographer You Can Find

I hired Tim King after I saw the work he did for one of my advisor clients, Tim Dyer of Dyer Wealth Management. You can see the photos for Dyer Wealth Management here. King is a local celebrity here in San Diego, specializing in high-end business photography.

We may think that photographers just point and shoot, but their job is much more complex. They work hard on so many factors that go into a great photo including:

• The camera
• Lighting equipment
• Their assistant and team
• Location and background
• Your body and face position
• Style and attitude of the shoot
• Editing the final photos

Working with a talented and well-trained photographer that specializes in professional headshots will make or break your shoot. Resist the temptation to use your photographer hobbyist friend or the first photographer who comes to mind. Do your research to find someone great.

6. Don’t Spend Too Much

Even the best photographer around shouldn’t break the bank. Since you’re only shooting for one hour or less and purchasing six or fewer images, they should be able to give you a competitive price. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of editing and purchasing the rights to your photos. For my shoot and six edited images, the total was less than $400.

7. Go Outside

Everyone looks better outdoors and natural lighting and backgrounds are more forgiving than indoor locations. Even if your firm is very conservative, try to shoot outside where you will look your best and your photos will have aesthetically pleasing backgrounds.

8. Leave Your Office

One reason advisors drag their feet on photos is that they don’t want to clean up their office to shoot on location. But there’s no reason you have to take photos in your office. Public spaces often have much greater variety and natural beauty to get multiple great shots in a short period of time.

For our shoot, we chose the La Jolla Contemporary Museum of Art, where we could access professional building backgrounds as well as natural and ocean views. Check out public places in your area or ask your photographer for recommendations. The background behind me in the photo below is actually a Cold Stone Creamery.

How long has it been since you took your last business photo? If it’s been more than three years, I recommend setting up a new shoot today. Start by finding a great photographer in your location and setting a date.

Don’t forget to upload your new photos to your website, social profiles, client portal, and email signature. If you need help with your marketing and using your new photography to update your website, get in touch today!

Ready to Grow Your Business?

We’re here to help you grow your business with “done for you” services. We provide ongoing education, and proven marketing strategies taylored specifically for financial advisors!

Browse our pricing and services, watch our webinars, and schedule your free marketing consultation today. You can also check out our Monthly Marketing Package.

About Claire

Claire Akin runs Indigo Marketing Agency a marketing firm serving top independent financial advisors. Claire is a former Investment Advisor Representative who holds her MBA in Marketing from the Rady School of Management at UC San Diego as well as a BA in Economics from UC Davis. It’s her goal to help specialist advisors target their ideal prospects with content marketing.