What makes a headshot... exceptional?

A USER GUIDE TO FINDING YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

There is no shortage of decent headshots out there. Most of us are using a viable headshot at the moment.

But what makes a headshot not just acceptable, but exceptional?

As a photographer for the last 15 years, starting with actor headshots and now focusing primarily on celebrity and corporate work, I have a strong opinion of what makes a business headshot stand out from the pack.

Here are 5 basic ways to make sure your photographer is on their game, and will produce an exceptional headshot for you:

1. The head should be straight to the viewer - not turned sideways. When we are directing our attention to a potential client, do we cock our heads to the side? Never. We look our client directly in the eye, with our head held straight, and our chin slightly down... that is how a headshot should be situated.

2. The eyes are well lit, and engaged. I know that if you are bored during your headshot session, then your headshot will be of someone who is bored. However if you are engaged during your session, and are feeling powerful, then the photographer should have no problem capturing an engaged version of you. But, that is a two way street, so be prepared to BRING IT during your session. Also... the photag. should be able to get ample light INTO your eyes, so they are bright and alive, not shaded and dark.

3. Your wardrobe is styled. No droopy ties, no dated wardrobe. Just cool simple and appropriate wardrobe for YOUR profession.

4. Excellent Lighting = Excellent headshots. Bright, vibrant and unique lighting is the key to have EYES STOP on your headshot. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for this... but we know it when we see it.

5. The backdrop is alive. Well not actually, but for an excellent headshot... the backdrop should not be a static color, or a throwback to the 70's, or even worse - the basic gradient from light to dark from bottom to top. The background should be interesting, complimentary to the subject and wardrobe, and at best - beautiful.

Finally, why does it matter? Whats the point of finding (and likely paying more for) an exceptional photographer or company to create exceptional content?

Well... people tend to believe what they see. So if they see amazing, they will likely believe it, unless proven otherwise. So why not have an amazing headshot, it is how you are being represented. And... a headshot will be your defining piece of marketing, so it ought to be inspiring! (at least if YOU are :)

This guide is not meant to sell our services, but rather to illuminate what to look for when researching photographers in your area.

That said, if you ARE looking for exceptional, we are ready to take you there.