Headshot Photography

Get to know your client

It all starts by getting to know the client you are shooting and what they are looking for. Everyone has their specialties in photography so it is good to make sure you are the right match. I like to do outdoor headshots. There's more room with the outdoors to get a bokeh look behind your photos and get light to reflect the eyes of the person.

Get to know their needs

Depending on the use of their headshot would depend on what I recommend for them. For instance, a shot behind a desk may be better if they are running a business. Keep in mind this is a head shot however so much of the image is going to be from the arms up, focused on the head.

Shoot manual

I like to always shoot manually but some may be more timid or worried about what manual shooting may entail. Learn the craft then develop it. It takes time. Shoot aperture priority if shooting manual is too hard, or auto only if you have to but I like to always lean manual as a professional. Focus the face, blur the background (bokeh effect,) and get a real crisp (not grainy,) image. Sometimes you may choose to keep the background but that is up to you.

What background?

When it comes to choosing a background for a headshot you can do different styles. Know what you are going for and what you want to specialize in. This is why it is important to know the client's needs. Some clients may even want a black-and-white headshot. Usually, with headshots, I try to keep the focus on the face so I would either choose an outdoor bokeh background or do an indoor SOLID COLOR background. You need to remember they need this for a purpose so understand what that is.

Understanding purpose

Some people need headshots for acting, modeling, or performance gigs. Sometimes these headshots have more specifications about what it is exactly they are looking for. Make sure you understand those and that your client is on the same page. You want to be conveyed all the information. If it needs to be certain dimensions you need to understand that. Sometimes white or black backgrounds are required. Just understand the purpose. LinkedIn sometimes clients want outdoor headshots or solid colors. Just be understanding.

Indoor headshots

When you're doing indoor headshots this is all about lighting. Make sure to use soft lighting and don't be afraid to sit your client down. Look at precisions and details that can crisp your posing. You want to convey confidence in your clients. Help them relax and most of all have fun!

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Whatever your journey may be headshots can be tons of fun! There is more freedom than you think with this! Just help your client find an image they can fall in love with! You got this! Keep at it fellow photographers!