Most of the time, a client deems a head shot ‘successful’ if they like how they look. Seems simple, right? But there is a lot that goes into that, and it happens behind the scenes – usually without the client even realizing it.
I firmly believe that it is the ‘job’ of the photographer to advise her client on wardrobe for the head shot or branding photo session. And for the ladies, this also entails hair and make-up. An amped up version of natural is best, because the camera and lighting can definitely wash out very subtle color. And the hair style can also impact the photograph because it can definitely impact what someone first sees when they look at your picture. Hair styles can also make someone look older or younger, simply based on whether it is curly or straight, up or down, to the side or all in front. It is good to photograph options, but in the end, the best version of yourself is one that is natural and conveys the look that you are going for.
Posing is also a big component to a successful photograph. There are definitely things that are more obvious than others, but I always start with posture, placement of the body towards the camera, leading with the forehead, and finally my angle to my client. You can see very clearly in these examples when I helped pose this young woman for her head shot, and when she stood naturally in my frame.
Subtle posing techniques and angles are critical to a good head shot photograph.
Contact me today to schedule your head shot or personal branding session!
Hair styling is also an important component of a successful photograph for personal branding.
