As a Photographer myself, I am not a fan of having my photo taken. I would rather be behind the camera, than in front of it. However, there are times that I too need to be photographed for a Professional Head Shot and these are my top tips for how to pose and what to wear for Professional Head Shots.
Firstly, when dressing for a professional head shot, remember that “eyes go to where skin shows”. This means that the attention of the viewer, will always be drawn to skin. So, wear long sleeves to keep the focus on your face.
Wear solid colours. Dark, neutral, cool colours work best (think black, navy, dark green, dark brown) and nothing too busy and with patterns on it.
Stand in front of a white or cream background. Simply straighten your back, (you could put your hands in your pockets so that you have good posture), turn your chest/body 10-45 degrees from the camera and lean slightly toward the camera. Then, leaving your chest and body facing 10-45 degrees from the camera, turn only your head back to the centre, to face the camera / photographer.
A slight head tilt is good and do not have your chin too far up or too far down either. Make eye contact with the photographer, letting your smile reach your eyes. That is, don’t put on a cheesy grin, with cold, blank eyes. I see right through it every time. My trick is to think happy thoughts about someone whom I love and before you know it, I have produced a warm, natural smile. I then look approachable, friendly and warm.
So, go on, give it try and let me know how you get on.
To view some examples of a good head shot, go to the link below. Enjoy!
Jane Lomax Smith, showing how it should be done.