PHOTOGRAPHY

Jenni Nikki

5 Tips On How To Prepare For Professional Headshots

Women in black suit, sitting in a white chair with arms on knee and having a more serious expression for her professional business photo in Atlanta.

Your headshots give you a way to establish yourself. Whether you are using them to build your brand or to update your LinkedIn, these have the potential to give you a leap in your career. So, when you are getting ready for your session, you want to make sure you feel fully prepared! As an Atlanta headshot photographer, I love working with my clients to get them ready for their sessions. If you could use some guidance, here are a few tips on how to prepare for professional headshots

Make Your Session A Breeze With These Tips On How To Prepare For Professional Headshots

Plan Your Outfits

The very first thing you want to do for professional headshots is prepare what to wear. You want something that photographs well while making you feel confident. The fact is that if you feel uncomfortable throughout your session, it’s going to show in your face. By bringing professional clothing that makes you feel good, you’ll have one less thing to stress about! Be sure to consider your background ahead of time since you don’t want to blend in or clash. 

Man with gray sports coat on, sitting on stool and taking professional business photo.

Professional Hair and Makeup

Yes, you could prepare and do your own hair or makeup, but I always suggest booking a professional for headshots. This is going to help for several reasons. First off, you’ll have one less thing to stress about as you get ready for your sessions. You can spend your morning practicing your smile rather than wondering why the heck your bangs want to flip that way. Secondly, you will be able to have the eye of someone who regularly works on looks meant to be photographed, giving them the experience needed to navigate studio lighting. I have several make up artist that I work with that come to the studio for the ultimate convenience so you are fresh and ready to be photographed right after you are pampered.

Headshot of women in navy suit jacket on a blue background and smiling.

Get Plenty of Rest

If you can, prepare with plenty of rest the night before your professional headshots session so you can head into your session looking bright-eyed and refreshed! The morning of your session, use some trusted eye cream, treat yourself to an eye mask, and drink plenty of water. All this will come through the finished pics! 

Man sitting on stool in front of textured arch wall, taking a business photo.

Determine Your Photoshoot Location

Work with your photographer ahead of time to prepare the right spot for your professional headshots. Some people choose their home offices while others choose spots in the community they love. Because headshots are mostly focused on your face, you don’t have to go too wild here. I often work with clients out of my studio, giving them a photo-ready backdrop with little setup. Plus you don’t have to worry about it being too hot, too cold or getting major hair frizz.  

Women in white business suit taking headshots on gray backdrop and smiling at camera.

Relax!

Above all else, roll back your shoulders, unclench your jaw, and just relax. Know that your photographer is just as invested in this session as you are. We’re going to make sure you have pics that make you look your very best! Trust the process and leave all of your stress at the door. Remember, you are going to do great! 

Man with plaid sports coat on, arms crossed and smiling at camera for his Atlanta business headshot.

I Hope This Helps You Know How To Prepare For Professional Headshots

If you have been looking for how to prepare for professional headshots, I really hope this list helps you out! And if you do want to learn more about booking me for your session, I would love to chat! As an Atlanta headshot photographer, I love working with clients to plan sessions that help them reach the next stage of their careers. Let’s sit down and have a conversation so you can decide if my style is a match for you. Send me a message today to find out more! 

Women in black suit and smiling at camera for her business photos.

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