What’s the Difference between Headshots vs. Portraits

One of the most popular questions we get asked is, “What’s the difference between a headshot and a portrait photograph?”

In summary, the differences between headshot types and portrait sessions are:

· Crop: Headshots are mid-chest and up, while portraits can be half-body, 3/4, and full-body.

· Variety: Headshots are taken standing with a clean, seamless backdrop. Meanwhile, portraits can be taken while standing, sitting, or leaning against seamless backdrops or one of our signature hand-painted canvas backdrops.

· Lighting: We use our signature headshot lighting setup for portraits, and the lighting varies depending on the portraits' message and mood.

· Location: Individual headshot sessions are taken in the studio, while portraits can be taken in the studio or with a more environmental feel outdoors or in an office.

What is a Headshot?

Headshots are closely cropped photos focused primarily on the face that conveys professionalism and confidence. They're associated with professional profiles, particularly on LinkedIn, company directories, and business cards. Headshots are meticulously crafted to concisely yet compellingly capture the essence of an individual's professional persona.

Here are four key factors that go into a headshot photograph:

1. Focus on the Face: Headshots zoom in on the face, specifically the head and shoulders, often in a tight frame. The goal is to highlight the individual's facial features, expressions, and demeanor. For that reason, a headshot is always photographed from the chest up. It can be cropped tighter after the fact. Clarity and sharpness are paramount to conveying professionalism and attention to detail. Since the focus is on the face, we often ask to remove any distracting jewelry and to avoid wearing wild patterns that could take the attention away from the face.

2. Clean and Simple Backgrounds: Backgrounds in headshots are usually clean and minimalistic—plain walls, neutral colors, or blurred settings—to ensure the focus remains on the subject. This simplicity enhances the viewer's ability to connect with the person directly without distractions. When you come to our studio, we have a selection of neutral-colored backdrops to choose from. The most common color for our professional headshots is “fashion gray.” You can opt for a more colorful backdrop; it all comes down to your industry and the message you want to convey to your peers and clients.

3. Purposeful Lighting: Lighting in headshots is carefully controlled to flatter the subject's face, emphasize their features, and create a sense of professionalism. Soft lighting is often preferred to minimize harsh shadows and create a natural, approachable look. Don’t be surprised how bright the lights are when you stand before them. Some meticulous placements and poses go into a headshot to ensure that it captures the most flattering looks and angles.

4. Conveying Professionalism: The primary aim of a headshot is to convey professionalism, trustworthiness, and competence. The visual handshake introduces you to potential employers, clients, or collaborators, making it crucial to align with your brand and industry standards.

Here is something to think about when selecting your headshot photos:

How will you be using your professional headshot?

What do you want your headshot to convey to people who see it?

If your headshot is part of your email signature, could you consider the tone of your emails? A smile in your headshot can counteract the potential negative tone of written communication, helping you make a positive impression.

Remember, people perceive things differently. A smile or a serious expression in your headshot might catch someone's eye. We recommend having a variety of headshots to cater to different perceptions.

What is a Portrait?

A Window into Personality

On the other hand, portraits offer a more comprehensive view of the subject, incorporating their environment, body language, and attire to portray personality and context. They're perfect for editorial features, personal branding, and telling a more in-depth story about the person. Here are 7 Ways to Show Personality in Professional Brand Photos.

1. Context and Environment: Portraits often include more of the subject's environment or context, whether it's their workspace, a favorite location, or an element that reflects their interests and personality. This contextual backdrop adds layers to the narrative of the portrait. There are plenty of hand-painted backdrops to select from in our studio, and if you opt for on-location branding portraits, we can work together to help you choose the ideal location.

2. Creative Freedom: Portraits allow for more creative expression in composition and lighting. The cropping on this is entirely different than a headshot. In headshots, the photo is chest up, whereas in portraits, there is more flexibility in style with photos half-body, 3/4, and full-body. We have more flexibility with angles, poses, and lighting techniques to evoke specific emotions or convey a particular mood that aligns with the subject's character. Also, there is room for more creative styling with clothes and accessories.

3. Depth and Storytelling: Unlike straightforward headshots, which focus on professionalism, portraits aim to capture the essence of the subject's identity and story. They may reveal vulnerability, strength, passion, or contemplation, offering viewers a deeper understanding of who the person is beyond their professional facade. This is ideal if you want to connect with followers online through newsletters and other marketing mediums.

4. Artistic Exploration: Portraits are often seen as artistic styles where photographers can explore different styles, techniques, and creative visions. This artistic approach allows for more interpretation and emotional resonance in the final image. If you want a clean marketing look or something more creative, this should be discussed beforehand to ensure the proper lighting and location are thought through.

Both Headshots and Portraits are Beneficial

Whether updating your LinkedIn profile or commissioning a portrait for personal or artistic purposes, understanding the distinction between headshots and portraits is crucial. Each serves its unique purpose—headshots for professional representation and portraits for individual expression and storytelling.

I think choosing between a headshot and a portrait depends on your goals, audience, and the story you want to convey. Whatever you choose, remember that both types of photography can make a lasting impression and communicate volumes about who you are—professionally and personally.