So, you’re looking for a new professional opportunity, or a chance to re-brand yourself…now what? We’re here to help!

In a world where on average a person is inundated with thousands of photos per day it is important to make sure that your personal image makes a serious impact. If you run a business, or need your online profile to make an impression and stand out from all the other faces, an eye-catching, professional portrait is key.

Let’s begin our brand-creating journey together!

The following information is tailored specifically for the business professional headshot sessions, and includes some of the answers to many of your questions when it comes to preparing for your Corporate Photography Session. The tips, tricks, and information included should give you a greater sense of what to expect, as well as how the selection process works afterward.

Being a photography team allows us the flexibility to offer you a choice to help you feel most comfortable at your session. Should you have a preference whether a male or female takes your picture, be sure to let us know and we will accommodate you.

Any questions or concerns? Please reach out to us! 

have a clear idea of where the image will be used.

This will affect a number factors. If the headshot is for on-line usage, decide exactly where and on what platforms. For platforms such as LinkedIn, the area where the image appears is quite tight from a spatial perspective. In order to maximize the effectiveness of this, a head and shoulders shot that focuses on your face is recommended (don’t worry…we’ll provide a version of the file sized specifically for this!). You will see just a bit of your shoulders, and just below your neck. If you need a web banner, this is sized more horizontally. That means the canvas you have to work with is larger, shaped horizontally instead of vertically, and will affect the way the photograph is taken. It also means that you’ll see more of your body…so don’t neglect your bottom half when selecting your wardrobe!  

The quickest visual way to show business is by wearing a jacket

Always bring a professional, well fitting blazer or jacket. Our suggestion is a jacket in a darker colour. In photos, it helps to direct the viewer to your face and not become distracted by other aspects. For this reason, we would suggest avoiding loud, bright, vibrant colours; also avoid patterns or logos that would distract (career exceptions may apply here, though!). If you would like to add a pop of colour, we suggest your blouse or top or tie has the colour, while your blazer or jacket remains neutral…in our opinion, neutral tones are often best. 

If the image you wish to portray is a bit more casual in nature, no problem! You can certainly choose to take the tie off, or not wear a jacket…however, keep a few things in mind. The eye is attracted to, and will take in first, the brightest item in a photograph. For this reason, be mindful that a white shirt may not be the best choice as, from a spatial perspective, you are now directing the viewer away from your face and towards a larger, brighter item! This theory also applies, ladies, to sleeveless tops - the eye will be directed to your shoulders and upper arms.

Feel free to bring a few different articles of clothing with you to the studio - jewelry for the ladies - and we will make suggestions, play around a bit and see what works best. Think also about creating layers, so that you can make wardrobe changes with efficiency - quickly removing a jacket or blazer can lead quickly to a more casual look! This will provide a variety of different looking images to choose from, especially if you have different media platforms to satisfy.

your industry

Lastly, be sure to check out what others in your particular industry are doing, and what the trends are. You don’t necessarily need to copy what others are doing exactly, but you don’t want to appear to be unprofessional in your work environment. Someone in Finance will have a different headshot requirement than someone in the Arts!

We have tried to make this process easier by tailoring our website with a variety of examples of business headshots. All of the studio backgrounds seen on these pages are available - simply surf around and let us know which ones appeal to you! It is suggested that you let us know beforehand, so that we have the ability to set these up before you arrive.

A little more specific

Here’s some specific suggestions based on gender -

Ladies-  Make up and hair is essential to a stunning headshot!

Make-up: If you don’t usually wear much make-up keep it light for the session. It is important to look like yourself. Foundation, blush and mascara are always great staples. 

If you love to play with make-up and that is part of your everyday look…go to town! Keeping colour neutral is recommended for a soft, classic look. 

Make-up artists are amazing at their jobs, and this kind of session would be a great time to invest in one.
Hair: Clean, styled hair is key. If you colour your hair, now is the time to touch it up (the camera sees more than you think). No need for a complicated style - unless that’s your style! - but keep it tidy and bring a brush. 

Men: Facial hair needs to be on point!

Hair / Facial Hair: For the most professional look we suggest men should be clean-shaven, or if your style includes a beard or moustache, well-trimmed. You should also take the time to style, or possibly trim your hair for your best image. 

After your session

We will go through the images from your session, narrow them down and select the best. We will send you your personal online gallery via email, so you can select your favourites. You can expect your online gallery within 48 hours. Once your order is placed we meticulously edit each individual image ordered and correct any blemishes. Each ordered digital file will be 8x10/8x12 @300dpi and provided to you in colour & black and white, with versions specifically cropped for LinkedIn. Your retouched images will be ready for instant download on the same gallery 48 hours from the time you’ve ordered. You now have the professional image needed to get out there and promote yourself!

Thank you so much for your interest in our photography services! We look forward to working with you to create your personal brand!

Amy & Jeff

p.s. If coming to our home studio…we do have a lovely cat named Oreo. You may not find him so lovely if you have allergies! Please take whatever medication you need for your comfort.