The Headshot Experience

My wife recently sat in the studio for a quick headshot update and offered to pass along some notes about the Headshot Experience for those wondering what it’s like to have their headshot taken by me. This was great for the both of us; I tested some gear and she needed an updated headshot for work. Nice and easy.

Except that she hates having her picture taken. Good thing she married a photographer. Her distaste for being in front of the camera is something I have grown to respect but ignore. I just happily snap away when she and my daughter are doing something cute or ridiculous. 

Her headshot session went well though. We got a few that I will cherish forever. And her colleagues are supposedly really jealous. Which is saying something since she works at a museum that celebrates portraiture. 

She also offered to write a brief summary of what it’s like to have a headshot taken by me. She has some great tips for camera weary subjects that are being forced to have their headshot taken. She is one of you and she survived. She also likes to show off her new headshot, too. 

Take it away, Dom! 

First thing’s First.

Let me begin by saying that I HATE getting my picture taken. Always have. Ten plus years in a relationship with a photographer has not changed this fact. Most pictures of me fall into one of two categories: I am either making a silly face so that if I look bad, it was on purpose; or it’s a candid photo and I didn’t even realize the picture was being taken. This means I didn’t have time to make a silly face. I just don’t think I am photogenic, so I am not comfortable in front of a camera. This is a “hardship” for my husband. He has to work a little harder whenever I’m in one of his photos.

I think this has helped him recognize similar tendencies in other people and has forced him to figure out ways to quickly put people at ease during their headshot session, with amazing results. I have also learned a thing or two on how to make myself become more comfortable and confident at a photoshoot. 

Tip #1: Remember to breathe

My first piece of advice, breath normally. If you’re like me, when you’re nervous, sometimes you can start breathing too heavily or forget to breath all together. Not breathing normally is the quickest way to look awkward in a photo. Not sure about the science behind it, but you will start to look stiffer, and everyone can tell you are uncomfortable. Take a deep breath at the beginning of the session and remember to let it out. 

Tip #2: Your outfit should inspire confidence

My second piece of advice, wear clothes you are comfortable in. This doesn’t mean lounge wear or pajamas, but an outfit that you feel like yourself in and inspires confidence. Take the time before your headshot session to choose an outfit that is appropriate to your work or personality and presents you in your best light. 

Knowing that you at least look good in what you are wearing will help you feel more relaxed. Plus, you won’t be worried that something is out of place or feel fidgety. 

Tip #3: Trust the photographer

My last piece of advice, trust the photographer. He knows what he is talking about when he positions you this way or that. It might feel silly sometimes or you might feel unsure, but he is the one behind the lens and he has a great eye. Lean forward if he tells you to or turn to the left even if you think your right side is best. He wants you to look your best, he won’t put you in a position to make you look foolish or abuse the trust you have put in him. 

Oh and have fun. It’s not that serious 😊 And, if you’re working with a good photographer, the session should be over before you know it. 

Wow, thanks Dom. Good advice in there. And some good takeaways for me, too. Reminding people to breathe is a big one. 

I like to work with people that aren’t used to having their picture taken. I love when someone looks at their image and says, “Wow! I have never looked like that in a photo.” That usually means I created a space for them to be themselves in front of the camera, if only for a brief moment. 

These sort of spaces can be created just about anywhere, and I am currently booking group headshot sessions for businesses and nonprofits throughout Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts. Contact Me if you would like to book a session for your team.