HEADSHOTS & PERSONAL BRANDING


A DIY guide to prepare yourself before you're seen in the world...

A series of casual portraits showing relaxed poses on a white couch.
Group of people standing in a bright room during a casual gathering.
Dark moody food photography with fresh bread loaves on wooden cutting board.
Series of black and white group portraits showing different poses against white background.
Dramatic black and white portraits showing person in camouflage military uniform.
Portrait series featuring casual poses in striped top and jeans against light background.
Black and white portraits of clergy member sitting in church pews.
Workshop scene showing craftsman working with tools and materials.
Dramatic black and white portrait series with artistic poses against light background.
Interior kitchen shots showing someone leaning over a modern white counter.
Professional black and white portraits in business attire against dark background.

Why is this a big deal?


90% of the information processed by our brain is visual and consumers buy things from people they know, like, and trust. I recognize that it's a vulnerable thing to put your face out there, but TRUST. You have complete control in how you're seen in the world. It all starts with your why.


You are the face of your business and you'll want to put your best foot forward.

What are you using your images for?


Besides the obvious social media profile pic, think about what's on your horizon that you may want to consider when planning for your session.

  • About to be promoted or start a new career? Dress for the job you want.
  • Up for an award? You'll want to appear humble and kind.
  • Have a new offering to your clients? We can brainstorm together how best to tell that with imagery.


And you may think you need 'just one photo' but FACT: you are a multi-faceted person and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to a headshot. Imagine how nice it will be to have a folder on your desktop full of amazing images that you love to post to your various platforms...

Black and white portrait series showing different expressions and poses in studio lighting.


WHAT to WEAR


The more effort you put into what you wear, the more successful your session will be. Period.


Headshot sessions get 2-3 looks

Personal Branding clients get 5-7 and a consult with my professional stylist, Maddie.


Regardless of what type of session you booked, though, plan to bring at least 10 different looks. And it will totally feel like you're moving in but it's better to have too much than not enough.

Vintage-style photos featuring poses with wooden ladder props against dark background.
Artistic sequence showing figure in black outfit posing with chair against white background.
Artistic black and white portrait series showing dramatic poses on a wooden chair against dark background.
Minimalist fashion photoshoot featuring dynamic poses on a chair against white backdrop.

Let's chat specifics


Do you own your own business? You should dress like a CEO. Think structure and clean lines. You can never go wrong with a classic blazer.


Are you a worm farmer? Then wear your best work jeans and a clean shirt.


What is on brand for you? What are your branding colors?


Bottomline: Dress like you, but the most polished version.

Professional headshot series of person in dark suit jacket against white background.

Fit


Crucial. Your clothes should fit you to perfection. Brush the dust off the blazer in the back of your closet and make sure it still fits. Choose pieces that flatter your body type - and FACT: if you're carrying a few extra lbs, more fitted clothing is actually preferred. I got you, Boo, with posing and lighting to slim. No one looks good in a garbage sack.

Underwear


Be sure to bring the appropriate undergarments (I'm talking to you, lady, with the black bra under the white tank) And slim-wear is a pain in the ass but really creates clean lines and holds in any flabby bits.

Dramatic portrait series with moody lighting and shadow play against dark background.

Jewelry & Accessories


Unless bold, flashy jewels and kerchiefs are your thing and you're known for it, it's best to keep these items understated and simple.


Rule of thumb for jewelry:

cool skin tones = silver

warm skin tones = gold

Lifestyle portraits showing casual white shirt and wavy hair against light background.

Resources


Don't feel like you need to rush out and purchase a whole new wardrobe unless this photoshoot is just the kick in the pants you need to up your style game. Browse the inter webs and see what looks you're drawn to first. Then start piecing together a collection. What you wear on top is more important than your lower half.


  • shop your own closet
  • borrow from friends
  • shop in-store. THRIFT!
  • shop online (just be sure to allow plenty of time for it to ship and try on, etc...)


Hair goals


Make sure to schedule your trim/color a week or two before so you look fresh. It's a mother to fix hair in Photoshop so it's important to get it right.

Ladies: if you want the easy button, opt for hair & makeup! My professionals are amazing at what they do.

Fashion portrait series featuring sparkly top and dramatic lighting against dark background.


Eyes


I can't recommend these eyedrops enough!

Bright interior space with natural light streaming through large windows onto carpeted floor.


Make Up


If you plan to do your own make up, here's some do's and don'ts for you...


DO

  • full coverage foundation
  • fill in your brows! They 100% frame your face
  • a heavier eye than your day-to-day
  • consider false lashes - they make a huge difference


DON'T (pretty please)

  • apply contouring or bronzer (on camera it can make your face look dirty)
  • apply any products that shimmer
Professional headshots with flowing blonde hair against white background showing various expressions.


Skin


  • Drink lots of water! Hydrated skin photographs best. Chapped lips are the worst.
  • Be sun smart: sunburns and tanlines are cause to reschedule
  • Spray tans: I say just skip it if you're not accustomed to them



Nails


Who doesn't love a fresh mani-pedi? Schedule it!

Neutral, natural nails are timeless and photograph best.


Black and white portrait series showing playful poses and expressions.


Teeth


White teeth are good and make you appear youthful. I recommend a regimen of Crest White Strips about a month before.



Rest


No late-night ragers the week-of. Your body indicates stress first in your face so get your beauty sleep.


Two people dancing and jumping against pink marbled background in contrasting outfits.


WHAT to BRING


  • Your freshly landscaped body
  • your clothing options with appropriate underwear, jewelry, and accessories

(shoes aren't that important unless they are your thang)

  • any specific lip color you like
  • your checkbook #businesswriteoff



What I service you with


  • a safe place for you to unplug for the day
  • snacks and beverages
  • a steamer
  • all makeup and hair products


Modern kitchen interior with large windows, black cabinets and chalkboard wall.

YOUR EXPERIENCE

Candid moment of laughter during a casual business meeting at a wooden table.

I. Game Plan

I shoot with the end in mind. So we'll do a deep dive into your target audience and what kind of specific imagery you need that's on brand for you.

II. photoshoot

You'll be fully directed every step of the way to look authentically you.

III. Same day image selection

You're busy! I'm busy! That's why a special time is designated at the end of your shoot to make your selection. One high resolution digital image is included. Of course more images are available for purchase but that is entirely up to you.

Questions?

we look forward to seeing you soon!

Three women in elegant black dresses posing playfully in a bright white studio space.