Although the term “killer headshot” may sound a bit sinister and ominous (like something out of a first–person shooter video game), the definition we’re concerned with is that of a head and shoulders photograph.
When executed correctly, that one shot will serve as a wonderful asset in your customer targeting efforts.
How you present yourself online or in print is no less important than how you come across in person. A killer headshot can introduce you to the industry and marketplace and benefit your business career in numerous ways.
Professionals in Every Sector Deserve a Good Headshot
Bathroom selfies in front of the mirror may work for your dating profile, but they won’t impress anyone in a professional capacity. Team photos captured with someone’s smartphone don’t convey the same feeling of importance as a professional shoot.
Whether an HR specialist is researching your online profile or a client is checking out your company’s social media, a good-looking headshot contributes significantly to people’s perception of you (and the company you represent).
A headshot is more than just a photo; it’s a testament to your achievements. It shows that you belong and have earned your place within an organization. It’s a visual representation of your professional journey and helps instill confidence in your abilities.
It’s One More Way to Convey Your Professionalism
Everything from the appearance of your company’s website to the quality of your staff is indicative of your business.
Professionally taken headshots appearing on a website, business card, or even your Employee of the Month plaque demonstrate a sense of pride, prominence, and permanence.
A CEO’s headshot on a website expresses accountability and credibility. If someone is willing to be the face of the brand, it suggests they are confident in the services or products they provide.
Photos, especially headshots, effectively humanize your home business, retail location, or corporate branch. Eye-catching images of a company’s personnel help it stand out from their competitors who remain faceless and anonymous in the same community.
Stock photos of generic business people in suits do little to inspire confidence in clients looking to develop long-term relationships with reputable companies.
Headshots Aren’t Just for the Higher-Ups!
Whether you’re selling luxury automobiles or hardware parts, customers appreciate knowing they are dealing with someone who is committed to their job. As a returning customer, it’s comforting to see a familiar face behind the counter instead of dealing with a revolving door of temporary employees.
As an employer, featuring your staff in your marketing with professional headshots is a testament to your belief in their role within the company and a sign of your dedication to their ongoing professional development.
Booking a shoot for your entire team unites your staff and allows each person to express themselves individually. Headshots can inject any business with a shot of personality and positivity.
Headshots are Critical for Personal Branding
When it comes to business transactions, people like to know they are dealing with a real person and not some virtual bot or a faceless entity.
In business, the image you project is everything. In terms of forging your digital identity, visual content sells, and the photos you post help you get found.
Strengthening your LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram presence is a fantastic way to expand your business outreach. If you’re responsible for blogging or sending out a lot of emails, a headshot is a fantastic way to complement your messaging.
The appearance of someone’s face in a business context makes your brand instantly more relatable and approachable.
This recognition factor explains why headshots are especially critical in occupations where the purchase is substantial (think real estate agents) or the stakes are potentially high (lawyers).
Most people still prefer to conduct major transactions face-to-face and in person.
Chances are new customers will discover your business online. In an age where first impressions matter and you have only seconds to convey your strongest attributes to nab attention, an excellent headshot can be the difference maker that will help you secure the deal.
You Don’t Need to Be a Supermodel to Reap the Benefits
When considering your headshot, one thing to keep in mind is that vanity has very little to do with it.
A recent photo is equally valuable whether you think of yourself as attractive or a little less than perfect. It is generally recommended that you update your headshot every few years to remain current.
In many industries, a person’s more advanced age is considered desirable. It speaks to a person’s life experience and competence in their respective field. Don’t be bashful.
A photographer with the right equipment and experience will know how to light your facial features and depict your personality in the most flattering way for your industry. They will guide you through the process, from choosing the right pose to finding the best angle for your face, making the experience relaxed and enjoyable.
A nice smile is a terrific way to show off your personable nature. A more serious expression speaks to your determination and forthright attitude.
The old saying, a picture is worth a thousand words, continues to ring true again and again in the digital age.
Printed Matter Still Matters
Never underestimate the value of a headshot as a facsimile introduction for prospective clients who might discover you via a bench, billboard, or newspaper ad.
Your smiling face shouldn’t just be found online; it can feature prominently on everything from business cards and company newsletters to your brochures and annual reports.
A physical leave-behind is still an influential selling tool, especially when executed with care and purpose. In terms of relationship building, the ability to attach a name to a face can make all the difference in the world, especially after a busy conference or tradeshow.
Whether your business dictates that your photo appears on the side of a bus or a postcard mailer, a quality headshot can boost people’s confidence in your abilities, which is always good for morale.
A dazzling new headshot doesn’t necessarily have to be the focus of your next advertising campaign, but it can certainly play an integral role in your marketing efforts going forth.
The more people see you, the more success they attribute to your name. Who wouldn’t want to be associated with individuals who have established themselves as being respected within their field?
A Small Investment for Big Returns
A classic headshot could be the deciding factor in your online profile that opens the door to your next big opportunity. If you’re a seasoned professional, having an updated photo lets the community know you’re still relevant in the marketplace.
No matter where you are in your career trajectory, it never hurts to invest in yourself, be it a new suit or an educational seminar or course—your sense of worth bolsters the confidence of your customer base.
That said, there’s nothing like a favorable-looking photo of yourself to boost one’s self-image.
Taking the Perfect Shot
Technically, anybody with a smartphone can snap a headshot, but it’s likely not going to provide you with the same impressive results as it would by hiring a professional.
Whether you visit a photographer’s studio or they set up shop at your office or on location, there’s something gratifying about dealing with a passionate professional.
Hiring a pro specializing in corporate headshots will ensure you end up with a final image of the highest standards. Photographers know how to put you at ease and draw out a natural-looking smile or your most dignified expression.
Professionals possess all the tools to capture the perfect moment.
- Off-camera lights
- Neutral backdrops
- Professional DSLRs
- Suitable lenses
- Retouching software capabilities
- Tethering equipment for displaying images
If you’re going to be the subject of the headshot, you’re responsible for dressing in company-appropriate attire and looking your best on the day. Most headshots occur from the chest up, although wider portrait shots may be taken on the day. Other tips for a smooth, stress-free shoot include:
- Get a good night’s sleep the day before
- Practice your preferred smile (or desired look) in the mirror beforehand
- Make sure to shave, pluck, brush, comb, and moisturize as per your regular routine prior to the session
- Have the majority of your makeup applied before the shoot; don’t overdo it
- Ensure your hair is clean and styled (any cutting or colouring should be done the week before)
- Wear clothing that is ironed and free of unsightly wrinkles or stains
- Avoid any drastic grooming modifications the night before (sun tanning, facial hair tweaks)
- Minimize patterned clothing and stick with solid colours
- Ornate necklaces, scarves, and earrings can be a distraction
- Stay hydrated
- Many business leaders forgo wearing a tie to appear more approachable
- Double-check that your clothes fit correctly and that your collar is properly adjusted
Get Ready to Say ‘Cheese’
Wherever they appear, headshots help generate qualified leads and potential sales. A good photo can significantly impact how you are perceived and influence the opportunities that come your way.
The corporate headshot remains a versatile trust-building tool in any business person’s arsenal.
Not only does an attractive photo lend credibility and interest to your business initiatives, but it enhances the personality of any website.
Agency Media understands that it is the little touches that make a business website great. From content creation to website design (and yes, even staff portraits), we have the personnel and resources to distinguish your brand in the best of ways.
If you’re ready to learn more about our digital capabilities, contact us today and we’ll provide you with a more detailed portrait of what our digital services are all about.