Headshots [Murphy NC Commercial Photographer]

Why you need a professional headshot

What look do you present to your clients?  The image that you present should represent the persona you want your clients to identify with.  You should always update your headshots every one to two years or when you have a significant change in your looks.  When thinking about getting headshots, there are many things to consider but ultimately only two hard and fast rules.

1. Look professional
2. Look your best

Now, here is a list of things you might want to consider.

• Do you want to smile in your headshot?
• Would you rather have a head and shoulders only, 3/4 body or full body shot?
• What is your best feature?
• Is there something about your appearance that bothers you? 
• Is your photographer skilled in the use of both studio and natural lighting?
• Does your photographer offer a complimentary consultation for planning your look(s)?

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3 Surefire ways to know that you need a professional headshot

1. You have a big "head sillhouette" where your Linked In profile picture should be.
2. Your profile picture is badly lit, has dramatic shadows where your eyes should be, etc.
3. Your profile picture shows your head with someone else's arm draped around the side of your neck making it look as if you have an un-natural appendage attached to it.

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Business vs. Natural Headshots

"Business Professional" headshots are the most traditional type of headshot. These are normally shot in a studio under controlled lighting situations and show only the head and shoulders.  Below are a few examples of business professional headshots.

Financial Services headshot

Photographer headshot

"Natural" headshots are usually shot with natural lighting using environmental props such as trees, landscapes, etc.  Although these are called "Natural" they may also be shot indoors using natural light coming from a window or door.  Below are some exampes of natural headshots taken both indoors and outside.

Business Advisor headshot

Male publicity shot

Modeling headshot

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As you can see, there are many different styles and looks for your business headshot.  To see additional poses and looks, you might want to check out our Pinterest headshot inspiration board.