Should you update your headshot?

Should you update your headshot? It's a question people have and not everyone knows what the next steps are. As a consumer we can do the typical search on the internet, ask a friend or coworker but when it comes to getting a professional headshot you need to do more.

Why it all sounds good you can encounter problems with that. A Google search will give you so many names of businesses your head will spin. A recommendation is only as good as the results. But what if you don't know what to look for, how can you be expected to judge and rate what's bad, good or great. The simple answer is you can't. It should be easier than that and an exciting experience but that's not always the case. I remember when I had my first professional headshot taken I was excited and couldn't wait to see the photo. That's the feeling each and everyone person should have.

Let's start with what to look for.

1) Do the photos look like people you would know or work with or do they look like models with perfect everything. Here's the simple answer, each photographer is different and you have to find the look you want to represent you.

2) Time, how much time do you think you need in front of the camera. Unless you do this all the time you won't know. I can say 15-30 minute headshots session can be tough for some people. Take these facts into consideration. It's a new situation and you need to acclimate, that takes time. You may want to fix your hair and makeup, change clothing, get a few different looks and be able to breathe. Think about that when the clock in running. An hour or two should do it and give you time to take a drink of water.

3) What look do you want? You need a photographer to help you with as that's part of what the experience should be. If you're expected to pose, smile and smirk all on your own that could lead to a problematic look.

4) What to wear. We have our favorite color, outfit and style but does it photographer well? You need the photographer to give you advice as to what looks best and works with you on camera.

5) Pricing and budget. I think that says it all and you can only do what you feel comfortable doing. But if you're going to base you search solely on price and not on the work then you could be in for a surprise when you see your photo. For me it's like going in to restaurant with a "Grade Pending" in the window, I'm going to be concerned no matter the price. We don't take a new headshot every day or week so it's okay to budget a little more as the reward can be worth it.

You have to ask yourself why you are getting a new or your first headshot. A new job search, a new website or venture. Maybe your photo from 10 years ago just doesn't look like you anymore but more like one of your children. This is something you should want to do and it should be fun.

Scott

www.scottrosenthalphotography.com

www.nycheadshotstudio.com