When you're looking to get a professional headshot, it can be very useful to know how to prepare. If you want the best possible results, there are some things that you can do ahead of time and others that will happen during your shoot.
Key steps to prepare for professional headshots for females
1. Make a plan for what you want to get from the headshots
Before you book your session, think about what you want to get from the photos. Do you want to build a new career or just update your LinkedIn profile? What is the key goal of the image/s? You should also review the photographer's portfolio. Does the photographer have images similar to what you are looking for in terms of style and tone? If not, do they offer options that fit with what you need better than their standard offerings?
Does the photographer have positive public reviews? (Google Reviews)
2. Consider your image and the impression you want to make.
Consider your image and the impression you want to make.
What do you want to project? How do you want others to perceive you?
Are there any specific qualities that are important for this job or career path, and how can we enhance those traits through your photos?
A good photographer will be able to help guide and direct these decisions based on their experience, but it's always helpful if the client has clear expectations from the start.
Once you have an idea of what you're looking for, it's time to find a photographer who can deliver that vision. If you don't already have someone in mind, start by researching local photographers and narrowing down your list based on their work.
3. Don't be afraid to ask questions!
If you are paying for a service, it is important that you get what you want. If there is something about the process or final result that makes you uncomfortable, then ask questions! The photographer should be able to explain everything in detail and answer any queries in an open and honest manner.
You should also ask about refunds if necessary; some photographers offer money-back guarantees but some don't. It is important to know this before booking so that there are no surprises later on when it comes time for payment (and especially if there's been an issue).
4. Get your hair cut, styled and coloured
Get your hair cut, styled and coloured.
You might want to consider getting your hair done professionally before the shoot. A good stylist will make sure that your hair is in good condition, and that there aren't any split ends; they will also choose a style that suits you (and if it doesn't work out, they can change it). Make sure you ask for advice about how much time should be spent on styling so as not to disrupt their schedule unnecessarily. If possible get them to do both cuts/colours as well as styling - this way everything will match perfectly!
5. Get a natural make-up done professionally
Professional headshots should be natural, with a subtle touch of make-up. You don't want to look like you've just stepped out of the pages of Vogue, but at the same time it's important not to go too far in the opposite direction and end up looking like a zombie or an old lady.
The first thing to consider when choosing your make-up is what type suits your skin tone best. For example if you have a light complexion then avoid bronzer because this will just look unnatural on camera; instead opt for some subtle highlighting products such as highlighter sticks or shimmery eye shadows instead (but only use these sparingly!). If however you have olive skin then bronzer could work well for giving some definition around the cheekbones without being too obvious about it - again though this depends entirely on what style/looks best for YOU personally so talk through options carefully before deciding which one works best!
6. Bring multiple outfits that work for you
Bring a range of outfits that work for you.
Be prepared to change outfits if you don't like the first few.
Don't forget to bring your accessories and jewellery! They can make all the difference in your photographs and they're often forgotten when people are getting ready for their headshot session. You may want to bring along some photos of yourself wearing each outfit so that the photographer can help pick the best one(s) for your needs (see below).
6.1 Think about what you want to wear, but don't dress too formally or too casually.
The first thing to think about when deciding what to wear is comfort. Clothes that are too tight or don't fit well will not only make you feel uncomfortable, but can also distract from your best features.
When choosing clothing for your headshot session, it's important to keep in mind the job you want and how that relates back to the image you want created. If your goal is professional work (e.g., law school applications), then it would be smart not to wear jeans and sneakers--even though this may be what makes someone feel most comfortable! It's better for them (and me) if we shoot with them looking their best!
6.2 Have some photos ready to show your photographer so they can help you pick the best outfits.
When you meet with your photographer, they will want to know what kind of style you're going for and which outfits you feel best in.
If you have several options ready to show them, it will make their job easier and help ensure that they get the perfect shot for you!
7. Practice posing and facial expressions in mirror
This step can be very useful for people who never had any good photos made in the past.
If you want to show in a headshot some authority, you might want to stand tall with the shoulders back. On the other hand, if you want to look approachable, it might be better to try a relaxed pose with open arms.
If you really want to stand out then you need to pay attention to your face expression and the eyes. If your eyes look empty, emotionless or bored it doesn't really matter how good you are dressed or how good your pose is.
If you feel nervous or unsure in front of the mirror or camera, try to close your eyes and think that you are meeting with a good friend or close family member.
8. Pay attention to skin care and sleep
Preparing your skin and sleeping well can help you feel more confident and comfortable during the photoshoot.
For skin care we suggest using the following steps:
Clean the skin with a gentle cleanser.
Exfoliate for a smooth and even skin texture (1-2 times a week)
Apply a moisturiser that has good ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides
Hydrate from within:
Drink enough water to reduce any dark under-eye circles and puffiness on the face. Without enough water the the skin might look dull. what is enough? In the UK, the Eatwell Guide from NHS recommends that you should try to drink 6-8 glasses of water and other liquids each day to replace normal water loss – around 1.2 - 1.5 litres.
If you have any specific skin concerns (like acne,redness,discoloration) it’s recommended to address them in the days leading up to the photoshoot. This might involve using special skincare products or treatments, or getting a facial.
Sleep is important to avoid bags under the eyes.
We suggest to have around 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep to help your skin to rest and look in the best form.
Professional headshots for females can help boost confidence , they can help your career or get more clients
Getting professional headshots can help boost confidence and get more clients. It will also help you to get a job, be promoted, or even get promoted.
Professional headshots can make all the difference in your career by helping to build your brand and increase visibility in the marketplace. You can post the photos on various platforms like linkedin, actors casting sites, instagram, facebook, etc. Make sure to mention to the photographer on which platforms you want to publish your headshots to adapt the format of the photo.
Conclusion
We hope this guide for professional headshots for females has helped you to prepare to get the best photos with your photographer. If you have any questions, please get in touch with us and we'd be happy to help.
About Author
I am a headshot photographer with over 7 years of experience in editing and retouching using tools like Photoshop or Lightroom. Whether you're an actor, a performer, a company, or a professional, please do explore the website to see if you'd like us to work together.
Telephone 07458943841