Your first head shot is an exciting time isn’t it?
You’re taking your first steps into professional world and you’ve booked your favorite photographer, you're excited about owning your first professional images.
But then the nerves start to roll in...
What do I wear?
What should I bring?
What do I do?
Don't Worry!
Portrait of Richard
In this article I’ll walk with you,
answering your questions and sharing top tips to make sure your session is a success!
1. What should you wear?
It is important to wear an outfit that matches your profession and overall message.
Are you a formal business such as a law firm or are you an informal creative business?
Whichever side of the scale you fall on, it is wise to consider the colour of the clothing.
If you are more informal, clothing with colours that compliments your eye colour will help you stand out
If you are more formal, classic dark tones like navy blue or black convey professionalism effortlessly.
Whatever you decide to wear make sure that it shows your neckline as it frames your face beautifully.
Remember to avoid distracting decals such as logos, checks and stripes.
You may want to consider a touch of makeup can enhance your natural features; consider investing in a makeup artist for a polished look before your session.
It can be enjoyable to experiment with different facial hair styles during your shoot to create versatile looks.
I suggest that you bring 2-3 outfits, each reflecting a different style with one professional, one confident, and one relaxed.
You could start with the relaxed outfit and gradually transition to the more formal attire.
2. What should you bring?
As a general rule it is unwise to bring props or jewelry as they are distracting.
However, if these photos are promotional and you have a physical copy of the promotional material. For example a new book or an award that you would like to bring attention too then it is okay to bring it with you.
For the outfits, it is good to bring a selection normally or three with each reflecting a different style with one professional, one confident, and one relaxed. Allowing you to start with the relaxed outfit and gradually transition to the more formal attire.
You may want to consider having some baby wipes handy to quickly clean your face if you are prone to oil as it can reflect in the light.
3. What do you do during your shoot?
Remember, versatility is your friend.
You could experiment with different hairstyles to vary your look.
Remember to angle your body slightly away from the camera, with your chest pointed in that direction.
It is good to bare in mind that women can accentuate their features by tilting their heads towards the shoulder closest to the camera, while men achieve a flattering angle by tilting their heads towards the opposite shoulder.
Both genders can accentuate their jawline by pointing their forehead towards and above the lens.
Head Shot of Richard
4. What should you expect?
The session typically has:
A Warm-up
The Primary Shoot
The Cool-Down
Preliminary review of the images.
Remember to prioritize self-care before your session – ensure you're well-rested and hydrated.
Now you’re ready to take a powerful step into your next chapter and let your professionalism shine.
Here are some TOP TIPS!
Practice Expressions:
Before the shoot, practice a range of facial expressions in front of a mirror.
Yes, it feels silly.
Experiment with smiles, serious looks, and everything in between to find what feels most natural and flattering for you.
Embody the emotion you want to convey.
Bring Touch-Up Essentials:
Along with baby wipes for shine control, consider bringing lip balm and a small comb or brush for quick touch-ups between shots.
To help with nerves
Take a deep breath and recognize that excitement and nervousness are the same thing.
Your photoshoot is an exciting time allow yourself to embrace that feeling.
Communicate with Your Photographer:
Don't hesitate to communicate your preferences, concerns, or ideas with your photographer.
Now, you're ready for your first head shot,
Go out there and make waves.
YOU ARE GOING TO DO AMAZING!