With the rise in digital media and the prevalence of social media profiles, it is now more important than ever to have a great headshot. A headshot is often the first impression that people have of you, and it is important that it conveys the right message. It is important to know what to avoid when taking a professional headshot in order to ensure that you convey the right message.
Poor Background
An important aspect of a professional headshot is the background. A poor background can really distract from the picture and can also make you look less professional. It is important to select a plain and professional background in order to make sure that the picture does not look amateurish. A good background should not be overly distracting and should be a solid color or a plain design. It is also a good idea to avoid showing too much background and stick to mostly showing the subject’s upper body and face.
Poor Lighting
Lighting is another incredibly important aspect of a professional headshot. Poor lighting can really take away from the picture and make it look unprofessional. It is important to ensure that the subject is well lit and the lighting is not too harsh. Natural light is typically the best choice for headshots, but if natural light is not available, then it is important to use soft and diffuse lighting. It is also important to ensure that the lighting does not create harsh shadows on the subject’s face.
Inappropriate Clothing
Another important aspect of a headshot is the clothing. It is important to select the right clothing in order to ensure that the subject looks professional. It is important to avoid wearing clothes that are overly trendy, as these can quickly look dated. It is also important to avoid wearing clothes with too much pattern or texture, as these can also prove distracting and unprofessional. It is generally best to stick to solid colors and classic styles. It is also a good idea to avoid wearing clothes with large logos or graphics, as these can also prove distracting.
Poor Quality Image
A professional headshot should be a high-quality image. Low-resolution images will not look professional and can also be difficult to use in the digital world. It is best to take a high-resolution image that is well lit and sharp. It is also important to check the image to ensure that it is free from red eye, blur, or other image quality issues. It is a good idea to ask your photographer if they can provide you with a couple of different image sizes in order to make sure that the image will work for your needs.
Unprofessional Pose and Expression
Finally, it is important to ensure that the pose and expression in the headshot are professional. It is a good idea to select a pose and expression that conveys confidence and approachability. It is important to avoid awkward or unprofessional poses, as these can take away from the image and send the wrong message. It is also a good idea to avoid overly expressive poses and expressions, as these can also quickly look dated and unprofessional.
In conclusion, it is important to avoid poor backgrounds, lighting, clothing, pose, and expression in order to take a professional headshot. A professional headshot is an important tool, and it is important to ensure that it conveys the right message. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your headshot looks professional and conveys the right message.