Meet Simon.
A great example of what we call “smiling eyes”. Simon’s eyes naturally squint a bit more with the larger, open smile…but so what? The viewer is drawn in…and wants to learn more about this individual!
He came in to see us a while back specifically to update his LinkedIn profile headshot. He had a feeling that something was about to change with his employment...and as many have experienced, Simon was caught in a restructuring process that left him needing a new job.
A more serious expression…slight head tilt and turn towards the light source helps to even out shadows caused by the bridge of the nose…
…and a little bit happier! Facing straight on to the camera with one light on Simon’s face - on his left side - creates a bit more shadow on his right side..
Catching up with him after our session, he explained how his professional headshot was critical in his job search. Simon retained an agency to help find him his next position, and in the consultation phase with them they were quite happy to have recent professional photos to include in his marketing.
Apparently, it is quite common for search firms to experience resistance when suggesting to their clients that a professional headshot is a necessary endeavor. I can understand the hesitation - people who are looking for employment might look at it and question whether the expense is necessary; after all, we all have the ability to take selfies now, don’t we??!!
The three previous photos, cropped specifically for Simon’s LinkedIn profile…and displayed in black and white, which creates a timeless, appealing look. B&W is a terrific way to focus the viewer on your face and eyes…and we all look good in B&W! The right column shows how the image appears in a LinkedIn profile. Note how the face fills the frame and utilizes all of the available space…which is not a lot to work with!
The truth is that professional photography is crucial when marketing any product. If you think of your job search as a form of marketing...then think of the product that your headshot is marketing. In a job search, that product is YOU!
People are inundated these days with thousands of images a day. A sharp, clear headshot will stand out from the sea of poorly composed, poorly exposed photography that we now see all the time.
Below are the three photos Simon selected to proceed with…with some subtle changes applied to create unique versions of them. We’ve made some notes on the different techniques and what they achieve.
In our next Business Headshot for LinkedIn post, we’ll introduce you to Karen. We recently did her Corporate Headshots in anticipation of a pending employment change.
Be sure to let us know if you’d like to learn about any specific photography topics in future posts!