Beginner’s Guide: Taking a Great Headshot for Your Website

Having a  headshot taken to place on  your website and social media profiles is key to having a cohesive and professional looking web presence. A photo of yourself also humanizes your website and lets prospective client’s know you are a real person. I highly recommend working with a professional photographer to have a headshot taken. It is always obvious who is using a selfie or wedding photo of themselves instead of a professional photo.

I know it might sound nerve wracking to have   your photo taken professionally, but with my guide below, working with a professional photographer is   a piece of cake!

Step 1: Scour the pages of your favorite blogs and businesses and add  headshots you like  to a Pinterest board.   Write notes in the caption so the photographer understands what you are looking for.  For example, I love this photo of Emily Ley  because she looks relaxed and happy and the pink background makes her glow.

Step 2: After you have a sense of what type of headshot you want, research photographers in your area who match your vision and   aesthetic. Contact each photographer and explain what type of shots you are looking for (include your Pinterest board in the email). The     photographer will be able to let you know if she can make your vision happen.

Step 3: Once you have the photographer booked,  work closely with her to select a location that compliments your brand and business. Photographers often have great location ideas, so be sure to ask for suggestions. If it is in your budget,  select a few different locations.

Step 4: When it comes to selecting an outfit, choose something you feel comfortable and confident in. If you are constantly worried and readjusting your outfit, your discomfort might show  in  your photos.  Also be sure to select an outfit that will compliment the photo shoot location(s). I would recommend a few different outfit options for more variety.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when selecting an outfit:

• Select solid color pieces over patterned pieces
• Select a color that compliments your skin tone
• Make sure your outfit is clean and wrinkle-free
• Pick a flattering neckline that is not too revealing
• Make sure your outfit fits well – you don’t want it to baggy or tight

Step 5: Get a good night’s sleep the    night  before your  photo shoot and drink plenty of water to keep you hydrated. When it’s time to meet the photographer, have fun, smile  and let your true personality shine through!

Once you have your beautiful new headshots, add a new photo to the homepage of your website, the about page and all of your social media profiles. Using the same headshot across different platforms will unify your web presence  and make it easy to identify.

What more tips and tricks?

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