Preparing for Professional Headshots: Part II
Avoid Stress
For the best most enjoyable experience eliminate last minute stress. Don’t let the little thing trip you up; a little prep can go a long way.
Tips:
- Save your photographer's phone number in your phone in case you should need to reach them last minute.
- Pack or set aside your clothing, make up and accessories before the day of your session so that day everything you need is in one place.
- Don’t rush, block plenty of time out on your calendar for your session (at least 2 hours) and set an alarm on your phone to ensure you allow enough travel time to get to your headshot session location. Save directions, parking and other information in a handy spot for ease of reference.
- If you are employing the services of a professional make up artist and or stylist make sure to send them directions and other important information before hand.
Be Seen!
There are so many ways to approach a photographic headshot session and so many options to consider for producing an image that serves you best! So don’t keep your plans a secret and be an active participant in the planning process.
Tips:
- Share with your photographer the look and feel of what you want conveyed in your image. How do you want people to see you and what message do you want others to receive from your image? Do you want to seem as serious, funny, friendly, or energetic? Knowing this can make you more effective at reaching your ideal target audience. Especially if you're using your headshot to promote a brand that is a service and you are the provider of this service.
- If you are not sure of what you want, do a little research for examples of what you are drawn to most and your personal style preferences. For example do you like a light airy feel or a more traditional classic feel?
- Know the usage goals for your headshot. Where will this image be displayed and how will it be used? Image needs for website are different than social media or print materials. Coordinating details for desired outcome is something your photographer is happy to work out with you before the session to ensure meeting your goals and expectations.
- If you are including another person in your session it will be important that you are both on the same page to maximize time, investment and your photographer's talents.
- If your brand offers products, consider the overall look and feel of this product and its usage. You may want to ask you photographer about a branding session that include images of you with the product as well as detailed product images.
Communicate
In addition to sharing your needs and plans for your images with your photographer, communication during your headshot session is key to an enjoyable and successful experience as a whole. Your photographer wants to please you and wants to produce images you are proud of, so sharing your thoughts is key in helping them offering you the very best.
Tips:
- Don’t be shy about sharing your need or ideas. If you are feeling nervous, uncomfortable, have a preferred side or just don’t know what to do don’t keep it to yourself.
- If you have a particular image or pose on the must have list and your photographer isn’t aware of it or hasn’t planned for it, let them know or remind them to make sure to set aside time to produce that for you.
Now that you are equipped with helpful tips give us a call we would love to help you achieve your best headshot ever!
Visit our the contact page to call or send us a message. We look forward to hearing from you.
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