Your profile photo is the first impression people will see about you on networking websites such as LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and more… so obviously, it’s imperative that you look AND feel your best when taking business headshots or composites. Knowing how to pose for professional headshots is almost as important as hiring the right headshot photographer, so here are some helpful tips and tricks!
Tip number one, don’t stand square to the camera! You’re not taking a mug shot, so be sure that you are standing at an angle to the camera, preferably 25-45 degrees. Standing at an angle will give your photo a slimming affect, which, let’s face it… everyone wants! So NEVER stand square to your headshot photographer, always make sure you are standing at an angle to the camera lens! In fact, if possible, sit on a stool at a 45 degree angle to the camera lens. Be sure that you choose (and let your photographer know) your most favorable side, and stand with that side facing the camera lens. This may not be a choice if you are taking group headshots or composites, as any good photographer will want to have everyone facing the same direction. Also, having a stool will allow you to feel and look more relaxed (and less rigid), so if a stool is available during your business headshot session, take advantage of it!
Next, make sure your shoulders are parallel to your feet. This is the most natural and relaxed positioning of your body, and you don’t want your professional headshot photos showing you all uncomfortable and contorted. So if you are feet are positioned at an angle to the camera lens, then your shoulders should be at that same angle!
Ok, so you’re standing there, ready to get your photo taken. But what do you do with your arms?!? Don’t panic! Most people aren’t quite sure where to put their arms or hands when taking photos, that’s just natural. But the worst thing you can do is leaving your arms hanging straight down like a couple of dead appendages. This will give the impression of one big block of body (your torso and your arms), and will definitely add the impression of unwanted weight to your headshot pictures! I always recommend that ladies put their hands on their hips, and gentlemen place their hands in their pockets with their thumbs out. Or, if you prefer, you can cross your arms. Really, anything is better than just letting your arms dangle, so go for it!
And finally, your eyes and chin… oh, soooo important in capturing the best headshot photos! I always have my business headshot clients start off by looking straight ahead, and then turning their head slightly towards my camera lens. So that means, if their feet and shoulders are at an angle to me, they start out looking straight ahead at that same angle. Then they turn their heads slightly towards my lens until I say stop, look straight into my lens, and click! Business headshot photo perfection! Now pay attention, as there were two important factors in this last step. First, I said look straight ahead, not up or down! People will always try to lift their chin to reduce the double-chin effect, and that’s one of the worst things you can do! Instead, look straight ahead, and if you have to, push your chin outwards ever so slightly. That will get rid of any double-chin effect! Next, I said look straight into my lens. Not off to the side, not at my forehead, not gazing into the distant future. The best headshot photos will have the subject looking straight into the camera lens!
If you’re getting ready or considering having new business headshots or composites taken, I hope this information was helpful!
Are you looking for the best San Diego business headshot photographer, or do you need a composite photographer and photo editor for your online profiles, student organization, sports team, company website, or business marketing or employee directory? San Diego business headshot photographer, Fotility Photography & Videography can help! We’re a highly rated, published business headshot photographer on Google Business, and people LOVE us on Yelp! Give us a call toll free at 800-494-1405 or contact us on the web, and we’d be happy to offer you our best price to capture some beautiful business headshot photos for you and your team! Plus, we offer discounted business headshot packages for teams of ten (10) or more!
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