Preparing for a professional headshot session involves more than just showing up with a smile. To ensure you get the results you want, it’s important to come prepared. Here are five things that will help you hack your next headshot session and get images that you love:
1. Makeup and Hair Products
Trust me, even if you’re not big on makeup, a little touch-up can make a world of difference. Bring along your makeup essentials and brushes for quick fixes. Hair products like gel, hairspray, or even a hair dryer or straightener can be lifesavers. We want to keep those stray hairs in check and your makeup looking fresh so that every shot is great, straight out of camera.
2. Extra Wardrobe Options
I’ve seen it too many times—clients show up with one outfit and end up wishing they had more variety. Bringing extra wardrobe options can add so much versatility to your session. Whether you need headshots for LinkedIn, your company’s website, or for publications, different outfits can showcase different aspects of your personality. Plus, it’s always fun to play dress-up, right?
3. A Friend
Having a friend with you can be a huge help. Not only can they keep an eye on those small details, like fixing a rogue hair strand, but they can also provide emotional support. A familiar face can make you feel more relaxed and confident, leading to more natural and engaging photos. And if nothing else, they’ll be there to sympathy-laugh at my bad jokes.
4. A Playlist of Favorite Songs
Music can set the whole vibe for your headshot session. Curate a playlist of your favorite songs to help you feel at ease. The right music can make any session feel like a mini dance party, which is always a good thing! Who knows, we might even discover we have the same taste in music!
5. Sample Images
Bringing sample images is like giving me a cheat sheet to your ideal headshot. Save examples of headshots you love on your phone, whether they’re of you or someone else. It’s especially helpful to include images from my portfolio, as I can easily recreate similar styles. Also, show me photos you don’t like and tell me what to avoid. This helps me tailor the session to your preferences, ensuring you leave with photos you absolutely love.
By bringing these five items to your professional headshot session, you’ll be well-prepared to achieve the best possible results. Remember, preparation is key to capturing your most professional and authentic self. Let’s make some magic happen!
