No matter what professional industry you are in, having a variety of professional headshots to use on different platforms is a game changer. Whether you are coming into the photography studio to get business headshots, corporate headshots, headshots for doctors, headshots for real estate agents, headshots to use for your LinkedIn profile picture or other social media profile pictures, for a job interview or for your personal brand, you will want to leave the studio with more than 1 headshot.

When you are preparing for your professional headshot, we recommend bringing in more than one outfit to have a variety of looks. Here is the ultimate guide on preparing for your business headshot photo session.

Let's dive into the reasons why you need more than 1 look for your professional headshot.

1. Your company wants you to get an updated professional headshot photo

Often, we get people coming into our studio to get an updated headshot because their company told them that it needs to be done.

Since you are already making the effort to come in for your headshot, think about the different ways you can use it and the kind of impact it can make in your professional industry.

A good headshot should be taken by a professional photographer, not an amateur. The purpose of a professional headshot is to make you look your best. It can be used for your business cards, website, LinkedIn profile, and other professional forms of communication.

Think about the different ways you'll be using your headshot photos. For internal company use, we recommend going with something more serious.

For external use such as your professional email signature we recommend using something more smiling and approachable.

Maybe the goal of your new headshot is to attract potential clients with your professional image.

You can discuss with your headshot photographer the potential uses of the images from your photo shoot. We recommend using simple background that has solid colors so it’s not too distracting.

2. Show off your personality

When it comes to creating a great first impression, we are all familiar with the saying "a picture is worth a thousand words" and it’s up to you to make sure those are all good and beneficial words. A good professional headshot is the perfect way to ensure you make the most of that chance.

Your professional headshot is a way for you to show off your personality and make a connection with someone without meeting them face to face. You need to choose a style that reflects who you are.

If you’re a fun and outgoing person, you’ll want to go for a more fun and energetic headshot. If you’re a more serious person, you’ll want to go for a more serious headshot. Either way, your profile picture needs to communicate that you are approachable, and you want people to connect with you.

Learn more about the importance of a good corporate headshot.

3. Communicate your professional skills

Your professional headshot is also a chance for you to show off your skills. If you’re a lawyer, you’ll want to go for a headshot that shows off your legal skills. Read more about why it’s important to update attorney headshots. If you’re a doctor, you’ll want to go for a headshot that shows off your medical skills. Here is why professional doctor headshots are a must.

How are you going to show of your skills in your professional headshot photo?

Bring clothes and accessories you were on the job. If you are a nurse or a doctor, bring in your scrubs or doctor coat. You can even mix things up and wear a stethoscope for some of the photos. You can see what versions you like best that represent who are as a professional.

For lawyers, bring what you wear when meeting with clients. You want to look professional and show your potential clients that you are the best of the best.

Get some more ideas on what to wear for professional headshots.

It can be hard to show your work skills in a headshot. That's why it's critical to not cut corners when looking for a professional headshot photographer.

4. You are on the market for a new job

Just like making sure your resume is up to date, having an updated headshot is part of the job hunt. When you have your headshot as your profile pic, it's easier to catch a job hunters’ attention.

Update your profile picture with your headshot on your professional social media platforms including LinkedIn.

The bottom line is that you need more than one look for your professional headshots. You need to think about the type of job you’re applying for and choose a look that reflects your personality and your skills.

Some things to keep in mind when getting a professional headshot:

Make sure your hair is styled and your clothes are neat and professional.
Avoid busy or distracting backgrounds.
Think about what you want the photo to say about you and your business.
Take the time to find a good photographer who will help you look your best. Here's are 5 tips on how to choose a professional headshot photographer.

A good professional headshot will help you make a great first impression and will help you look like a credible and professional businessperson.

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