During the process of developing a new website, I recommended that my client hire a photographer to update all the professional’s headshots. I suggested that updated photos would not only increase the aesthetics of the site, but a consistent background and camera perspective would communicate a unified message to all who visited.
As part of the exercise, each professional was scheduled at a specific time, and emailed “best practices” regarding what to wear to ensure the resulting headshot would be as flattering as possible.
On the day of the shoot, I was perplexed by the scenarios presented me. One female arrived with a face as red as ground beef. When I inquired as to what had happened, she mentioned she had undergone a chemical peel earlier that day in hopes of appearing younger. A male showed up in a dress shirt that was too small to button at the neck and with a jacket that arguably would have fit him 30 pounds ago. Another female was irritated to learn we hadn’t rented a fan in order to give her the Hollywood “windblown hair” look she desired.
Having overseen many photo shoots for professional services firms since then, I have learned two things. First, assume nothing. Even the brightest of professionals require direction in areas outside their expertise. Second, an updated headshot is a powerful marketing tool that should not be taken for granted.
In an Internet era when most professionals utilize online tools such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and their organization’s website to connect with clients, prospects, and referral sources, it’s critical that one’s online presentation appropriately reflects their personal brand, and positions them as the “go to” person within their field.
Below are my recommendations when it comes to professional headshots:
- Have a professional headshot taken every two years or whenever your appearance changes substantially, whichever comes first; a “dated” headshot communicates your inability to evolve and stay current
- Utilize the services of a professional photographer as they can position you in the best light possible–pun intended; they can also ensure the resolution of the picture is sufficient for a myriad of marketing and promotional purposes
- For professional use, avoid pictures of you on the phone (as often sported by realtors on bus benches), of you with your pets (we get it…you’re popular), or with your kids/grandkids
- Focus on your face as that is what you want people to remember most; everything else (clothing, makeup, hair, accessories, eyewear, etc.) should take second chair and appear professional and conservative as to not draw attention away from your face
- Ultimately, present the best you possible. It’s not necessary to have Cher’s cheekbones or Brad Pitt’s smile to make a professional impression.
It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words. What is your headshot saying about you?
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