Top 10 Tips for Preparing Your Headshot Before a Job Interview
Preparing for a job interview can be intimidating, especially when it comes to making your first impression. Set yourself up for success by scheduling a headshot photoshoot to set the stage for your meeting. Here are some ways to prepare for your first set of headshots!
1. Choose Your Headshot Photographer
Photographers differ in their styles and techniques. Take a peek at their portfolio to get a sense of their style. Look for someone whose work speaks to you and matches the professional image you aim to project. The ideal photographer will make the shoot comfortable and fun, guiding you to shine naturally. It’s about blending their expertise in lighting and editing with your unique persona to create a headshot that makes a great first impression.
2. Pick Your Vibe
Now that you've chosen a photographer, what message do you want to send to your prospective employer? Think of it like setting the tone for your personal brand story. Are you aiming for approachable and friendly, or more formal and authoritative? Consider your industry and the message you want to convey. A creative field welcomes a more relaxed, innovative atmosphere, while corporate roles lean towards classic and polished.
3. Location, Location, Location!
The phrase “A picture’s worth a thousand words” applies to headshots, too! Your headshot's backdrop can speak volumes about who you are, even before you step foot in the office. Whether it's a sleek studio background, a bustling cityscape, or a serene park setting, the right environment can enhance your professional image and add depth to your story. A well-chosen spot can complement your look while highlighting your career goals.
4. Dress for Success
A person's style and clothing choice says a lot about them. Think back to the vibe that you chose to portray in your headshot. If you're leaning toward being more professional, choose a more business-oriented outfit, like a classic button-down shirt. However, if you want to portray yourself as more confident and comfortable, consider dressing in a bolder color. Whatever you choose, consider avoiding overly busy patterns that can distract a viewer from your face. After all, you want your clothes to compliment your features rather than vice versa.
5. Practice That Smile
Practicing your smile might feel a tad awkward, but it's a game-changer for capturing a headshot that radiates authenticity and confidence. A genuine smile can enhance your professional image, making you appear approachable and engaged. Spend some time in front of a mirror finding your best, most natural smile.
6. Set Goals with Your Photographer
You wouldn’t start day one of a new job without a plan, so why would you go into a headshot photoshoot session without ideas? Before the camera starts snapping, share your career aspirations, the image you wish to project, and any specific requirements you have for your headshot with your photographer. This collaborative approach ensures your photographer understands your vision and can tailor the session to meet your needs.
7. Get Your Beauty Sleep
Nothing is more of a turnoff in a headshot than a tired face. Since your headshot is your first impression with prospective employers, you want them to see you at your freshest. Otherwise, it can give them the impression that you are not vibrant or prepared to take on a new position. A good night’s sleep can decrease puffiness and dark circles and give you a natural, rejuvenated glow.
8. Hair and Makeup
Just like picking your outfit, your hairstyle and makeup can completely change your look. Opt for a hairstyle that elegantly frames your face without overwhelming it. Makeup should enhance your features subtly, aiming for a natural but refined appearance. Remember, the goal is to look like the best version of yourself on a good day. Consider hiring a professional stylist to ensure everything is on point!
9. Trust Your Photographer
Let go of the reins when it comes to the photography session. You hired a professional photographer to talk you through your session and give you the best results possible, so trust them to have your back! These professionals understand how to capture your best angle and tips that make a headshot stand out. Trust in their guidance, whether it’s about adjusting your posture or changing your expression.
10. Have Fun
It takes vulnerability to stand in front of a camera and allow a photographer to capture all of your angles. However, our headshot session is an opportunity to have fun and express yourself! Letting your genuine personality shine makes for a more engaging and authentic photo. Laugh, be playful, and enjoy the moment. This relaxed and positive energy will translate into your images, making them more relatable and appealing.
If you’re ready to get your headshot captured, consider booking a session with Studio Pod. Our solo booths give you all the benefits of a professional headshot without the hassle or intimidation of standing in front of a human photographer. Instead, control your session with our intuitive interface and get photos delivered to your inbox within minutes! Schedule an appointment with us today for your professional headshot.
The Slight Head Tilt
It's rather surprising how much a slight tilt of the head can add to the intensity and interest in a headshot. This gesture can create an inviting atmosphere, resulting in an image that connects with viewers on a more personal level.
The benefit of this pose lies in its subtlety. It's not overly dramatic yet gives off an aura of intrigue.
Begin by standing straight and facing the camera directly.
Gently tilt your head, as if pivoting at the point where your neck meets your shoulders.
Aim for a slight tilt towards the shoulder that's closer to the camera, but keep it subtle.
If you feel any strain or discomfort, return to a more comfortable position. Remember, the goal is a natural and effortless look.
The Shoulder Angle Pose
One of the most effective headshot poses to adopt is the shoulder angle pose. Setting your body at an angle adds dimension and depth to the shot. Moreover, it can have a slimming effect for those conscious about their physical portrayal.
Turn at approximately a 45-degree angle towards the camera.
Keep one shoulder closer to the lens. It creates visual interest and forms asymmetrical balance — which our eyes love.
Make sure to maintain good posture; slouching can undermine the confidence depicted in your photo.
The Crossed Arms Pose
This pose communicates an aura of authority and competence, allowing it to send a powerful message regarding the individual's professional capabilities.
Make sure one arm crosses over the other smoothly.
Lean just slightly forward into the camera.
Radiate confidence with a small smile or determined look.
Keep your elbows outwards but not overly so.
It's essential that while posing with crossed arms, your demeanor remains composed yet approachable.
The Hands-on-Hip Pose
It's a popular choice among those aiming to present an image of authority, strength or self-assuredness.
When executing this pose, ensure that your shoulders stay relaxed to maintain an authentic demeanor. Overly stiff or hunched shoulders can potentially signal tension, instead of the composure you're aiming for.
If this stance feels unnatural or uncomfortable for you after trying it out, explore other poses that make you feel more at ease and genuine.
The Lean-In Pose
While it may sound simple, there are factors to consider for achieving the perfect lean-in pose:
Maintain good posture: Even when leaning in, ensure your back is straight and shoulder blades pulled towards each other slightly.
Mind your chin: When people lean-in, they tend to jut their chin out unconsciously which can result in unflattering shadows under the jawline. Encourage them to keep their chin down.
Intentional eye contact: A critical component of this pose is strong eye contact - make sure your eyes express inviting yet assertive impact.
The Natural-Candid Pose
Quite often, the aim of a headshot is to capture the essence of a subject's personality. That can be done by adopting what I like to call the 'Natural-Candid' pose. This approach imitates spontaneous moments, highlighting one's genuine self.
Let me paint you a picture of it. Imagine someone caught off guard, laughing at some private joke or lost in thought; these are candid moments that can make for excellent headshots.
Involve Movements - Add dynamic energy by simulating natural movements like brushing hair away from your face or adjusting your tie.
Engage Your Emotions - Think happy thoughts; remember a funny incident or even pretend to blush if it helps bring out engaging emotions across your features.
Eye Focus - Keep your eyes focused on something outside the circle of the lens to give that far-off, absorbed-in-thought look.
The Fonzie Pose (Happy Days)
This pose takes its name from a popular character, Arthur "Fonzie" Fonzarelli, on the classic American television show 'Happy Days'. He was renowned for his effortless cool and unmatched confidence, embodied perfectly in his iconic pose.
Unforced confidence: Just like Fonzie himself!
An upright stance: Despite having a casual angle at the hip.
A genuine smile: Can be subtle or full-faced depending on your personal style.
Remember, the goal here isn’t to look exactly like Fonzie! Rather aim at encapsulating his spirit into your headshot through natural charisma and confidence - two traits heavily associated with Arthur Fonzarelli.
The "Squinch" by Peter Hurley
Your eyes leave an indelible imprint on viewers when it comes to headshots. One remarkable technique, the "squinch", popularized by photographer Peter Hurley, creates a powerful impact.
"Squinching," as per Hurley's definition, is an action that involves squinting ever so slightly to introduce depth and add intrigue to the headshot. This small alteration can transform the lifeless, bored look into one of confidence and curiosity.
Try a relaxed facial expression to begin with.
Narrow your eyelids like you're about to wink - but stop half-way.
Stop yourself from excessively narrowing down your eye slits—this isn't glaring!
This style creates a dynamic mystique around you while projecting you as approachable yet dominating personality.
What is the Best Pose for a Headshot?
Identifying the ideal headshot pose varies based on the individual and their desired image projection. There are some common elements and guidelines you may want to consider when aiming for that perfect shot.
Comfort is key in headshots, as an uncomfortable pose leads to an unflattering expression. Authenticity is also crucial, adding natural charm and charisma. Additionally, details like angle, expression, and props are important.
Ultimately though, remember that every pose comes alive through connection; with yourself, with your photographer…and eventually with those viewing your picture!
What Faces to Make for Headshots?
What kind of facial expressions should I use? Let's delve into capturing authentic emotions that communicate who you are and what you represent:
Conveying Confidence: Work towards showcasing assertiveness through a close-mouthed yet uplifting grin coupled with direct eye contact.
Displaying Approachability: Balancing your demeanor is essential in headshots. Avoid appearing overly serious or too broadly grinning. Aim for an approachable expression.
Embracing Authenticity: To evoke genuineness within your picture, think about things that truly inspire or move you, and let these emotions reflect subtly on your face.
Experimentation Pays Off
Finally, there isn’t one universally flattering face for headshots - experimenting helps! Try out multiple expressions during your shoot: mild surprise, thoughtful contemplation - perhaps even slight skepticism could add interesting dimensions.
Stepping into the photo session armed with this information will undoubtedly help alleviate any tension associated with capturing that perfect headshot.
Benefits of Studio Pod for Comfortable Posing
The greatest advantage of using Studio Pod is that it doesn’t require a photographer! Studio Pod’s automated, photographer-free setup ensures a comfortable and stress-free atmosphere, allowing you to pose naturally and at your own pace.
Studio Pod is designed to navigate you through the process seamlessly. Its automated guidance helps in achieving the right poses without any confusion or need for external assistance.
Moreover, Studio Pod utilizes advanced technology to ensure optimal lighting and camera settings for each shot. This precision enhances the quality of your poses, making them look professional and well-crafted!
