Most CEOs, entrepreneurs, and business executives have an idea about how far a good headshot can take you. With the advent of the internet, your headshot has to do more than sit quietly on a LinkedIn profile or company website. It needs to catch your attention, reflect your personality, and radiate the confidence and credibility that define you as a leader. In this post, we’ll guide you on how to plan for an executive headshot that truly represents you, including what to wear and how you should pose.
Who Needs Executive Headshots?
While you might think executive headshots are just for CEOs or big bosses in suits, it is not entirely true. Here are some of the people who benefit the most from having one:
Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners
Running your own business means you’re often the face of your brand. A professional headshot shows potential clients, partners, and investors that you mean business. It helps people see you as serious and reliable, even if your business is just starting. Also, a good headshot makes your brand look polished and professional, which is exactly how you want to be remembered.
Job Seekers and Career Climbers
When you’re looking for a job or trying to climb the corporate ladder, first impressions matter. Your LinkedIn profile or resume may be the first thing recruiters or employers see, and having a good, professional headshot makes all the difference. It shows that you’re serious about your career and helps you stand out from the competition.
Public Speakers and Industry Experts
If you frequently give talks, write articles, or get interviewed, people will want to know who you are. In such cases, a professional headshot makes you look like the expert you are. It helps people connect with you and trust what you have to say.
Corporate Teams
Companies often feature their teams on websites or in marketing materials. Unfortunately, if the photos are inconsistent or unprofessional, it can make the company look disorganized. On the other hand, having professional headshots for everyone on the team creates a unified, polished look. It shows clients and partners that the company is serious about professionalism and teamwork.
How to Plan for an Executive Headshot (The Traditional Way)
Planning for an executive headshot doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Here’s a guide to help you get ready in the traditional way.
1. Find the Right Photographer
You can start by looking for a photographer who specializes in corporate or executive headshots. This is important because not all photographers have the same style or experience. How will you know? By checking their portfolio to see if you like their work. Also, do the people in their photos look professional and approachable? Once you’ve found someone, book your session early because good photographers often have busy schedules. Make sure to ask about the price, and how many photos you’ll receive.
2. Pick the Perfect Outfit
Your outfit says a lot about you, so choose it carefully. If you’re not sure what works best, bring a couple of outfit options to your photoshoot. The photographer can help you pick the one that looks best on camera.
3. Grooming Matters
Before your headshot session, take some time to groom yourself. Men should trim their facial hair or shave if that’s their usual look. Women may want to book a hairstylist to make sure their hair looks neat and polished. If you don’t usually wear makeup, just make sure your face looks fresh and your skin is moisturized.
4. Practice Your Expressions
Your face is the star of your headshot, so it’s a good idea to practice some expressions beforehand. A soft, natural smile often works best. It shows confidence and approachability. Avoid stiff or forced smiles. If you’re nervous, take a deep breath and relax your face. Sometimes the photographer will even help you loosen up during the session by chatting with you or cracking a joke.
5. Think About the Background
Traditional executive headshots are usually taken in a studio with a plain background. Neutral colors like gray, white, or black are common because they keep the focus on you. If you prefer something different, you can ask for a simple office background, but make sure it’s not too busy or distracting.
6. Schedule Your Shoot Carefully
Pick a time for your photoshoot when you won’t feel rushed or stressed. Mornings are often a great choice because you’re usually more rested and fresh. If you schedule it for later in the day, make sure you’re not coming straight from a long meeting or stressful activity.
7. Bring Extra Options
It’s always smart to bring a few extra outfits to your session. Sometimes a slight change in color or style can make a big difference in how your photos turn out. You can also bring accessories like a tie, scarf, or jewelry, but keep them subtle, nothing too flashy.
8. Get Rest and Stay Hydrated
The night before your headshot, make sure you get a good night’s sleep. You want to look fresh and awake in your photos, and rest is the best way to achieve that. Also, drink plenty of water the day before and on the day of your shoot. Hydrated skin looks healthier and more vibrant on camera. With these steps, you’ll be ready to create a traditional executive headshot that makes a strong impression. But what about the costs involved?
How Much Does Executive Headshot Cost Near Me?
The price can vary based on several factors, such as your location, the photographer’s experience, and the services included in the session. However, the cost of an executive headshot usually falls between $150 and $500, depending on several factors. In big cities like New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago, prices tend to be on the higher end, often reaching $1,000 or more for top-tier photographers. Apart from the location, the photographer's package and services can also affect the price. Some photographers offer basic packages, which could include a single shot and minimal editing, while others offer premium packages that include multiple outfits, lots of backdrops, more photos, and professional retouching. Naturally, more extensive services will raise the price, but they also provide a more polished and customized headshot.
What Should I Wear for My Executive Headshot?
As we’ve said earlier, your outfit plays a major role in how your headshot turns out. But how do you decide what to wear? Let’s help you with some simple tips to make sure you’re dressed for success in your headshot.
1. Keep It Simple and Professional
It’s best to stick to classic, professional clothing that reflects your role. For men, a suit jacket, dress shirt, and tie are always a safe bet. This look is timeless and exudes professionalism. For women, a blazer or a smart blouse works wonderfully. Both options help create a polished and put-together appearance. Avoid wearing clothes with busy patterns or bright prints, as they can be distracting and take the focus away from your face.
2. Avoid Logos or Slogans
Your headshot is all about showcasing your professionalism, so it’s important to avoid wearing clothing with large logos or slogans. Clothes with brand names or bold text can make you look less polished and can take away from the focus on your face.
3. Make Sure Clothes Fit Well
Clothes that are too loose or too tight can look unflattering and distract from the polished look you want to achieve. Aim for clothes that fit well and are comfortable. A well-tailored outfit helps you look sharp and confident, while loose or tight clothing can make you look unprepared or unprofessional.
4. Consider Your Industry
Your clothing should reflect the type of industry you work in. For instance, a slightly more relaxed style might be appropriate if you're in a creative industry like design or marketing. It could be a smart jacket without a tie or a casual blouse could work well.
On the other hand, if you work in a formal industry like finance or law, a more formal look, like a suit and tie for men or a blazer for women, might be more suitable.
How Do I Pose for Executive Headshot?
With your outfit set, the next step is ensuring your pose reflects confidence and approachability. Posing for an executive headshot is all about projecting confidence, professionalism, and approachability. Here are some tips to help you get the perfect pose:
1. Stand or Sit Tall
The first step to a great executive headshot is your posture. Stand or sit tall, as if a string is pulling you gently upward from the top of your head. This helps you look confident and professional. If you’re standing, make sure you’re balanced, don’t lean too much to one side. On the other hand, if you’re sitting, lean forward slightly. This small lean makes you look more engaged, almost like you’re having a friendly conversation.
2. Angle Your Body
Once your posture feels right, think about your body angle. Facing the camera straight on can feel stiff and formal, so turn your body slightly to one side. So, while your body is at an angle, keep your head turned toward the camera. This simple trick gives your pose a polished and professional feel, almost as if you’re casually yet confidently presenting yourself.
3. Relax Your Shoulders
Your shoulders say a lot about your mood. If they’re scrunched up or tense, you’ll look stressed. Try to breathe deeply and let your shoulders drop naturally. Relaxed shoulders also make your whole pose seem effortless.
4. Find Your Best Head Tilt
Once your shoulders are relaxed, it’s time to adjust your head. A slight tilt can work wonders. It adds a soft, approachable feel to your pose and prevents you from looking too stiff. However, don’t overdo it. A small tilt is all you need.
5. Make Eye Contact
With your head in the right position, focus on your eyes. Eye contact is necessary to connect with the person viewing your headshot. Look directly into the camera lens, like you’re speaking to someone face-to-face. To avoid a blank stare, try a slight squint or think of something happy.
6. Smile Naturally
Your smile should feel like you. You don’t need a big, toothy grin unless that’s your style. A soft, natural smile works perfectly. Practice a few in the mirror to see what looks best.
7. Position Your Hands
Let’s not forget your hands. If they’re visible, keep them relaxed and natural. Avoid crossing your arms tightly, as this can feel closed off. For sitting poses, rest your hands on your lap or the armrest.
What Backgrounds Should I Use for Executive Headshots?
When choosing a background for an executive headshot, you want something that looks professional and doesn’t distract from you. Here are some great options:
1. Neutral Colors
Neutral backgrounds like white, gray, beige, or black are classic and professional. They help keep the focus on you and give your photo a clean, modern look. These colors work well for most industries.
2. Simple Office Environment
A background showing a subtle office setting can add a bit of personality without being too busy. It could be a simple bookshelf, an office desk, or a soft, blurred office space behind you. This shows you’re in a professional setting but keeps things relaxed.
3. Solid Colored Background
A solid, soft color like navy blue or light blue is a great choice. These colors add depth to the photo and can give a sense of calm and trustworthiness, which is important for an executive.
4. Outdoor or Natural Settings
If you want something a bit different, a background with greenery or natural light can make you seem approachable. This works well if your job is in a more creative or open-minded industry.
5. Textured Backgrounds
Subtle textures, like brushed metal or light fabric, can add some dimension to the photo without making it too distracting. Just make sure the texture is soft and not too bold.
Whatever background you choose, ensure it complements your image without drawing attention away from your face.
Conclusion
The right outfit, a little grooming, and some preparation can help you create executive headshots that represent your best self. But what if you want a quicker and easier way to get that perfect headshot? That’s where HeadshotPhoto.io comes in. This smart AI tool takes your regular photos and turns them into professional headshots. No studio visits, no expensive photographers. It’s simple, fast, and budget-friendly. So, why are you are you dragging your feet? Sign up and get started on creating the perfect professional image.
FAQs
What is the best headshot for a business?
For a business headshot, it’s best to look straight into the camera. This creates a feeling of connection and draws the viewer in.
Should I wear lipstick in a headshot?
For your headshot, choose a lip color that’s a bit darker than what you usually wear. This helps your makeup look more natural in photos since cameras can lighten colors.
Are professional headshots teeth or no teeth?
For a professional headshot, you can smile with or without showing your teeth, or even go with a slight smile. Choose an expression that feels natural and comfortable for you, whether it's a full smile, no smile, or something in between.
