Your headshot is a powerful tool that can be used in a variety of different ways. Whether you're in a corporate or academic setting, an entrepreneur, an artist, or an industry thought-leader, a well-crafted headshot can help you build a personal brand, make a great first impression, and help to showcase your talents and skills to the world. But how can you get the most out of your headshot and use it for multiple purposes? Here are some tips to help you do just that.
First … I recommend you develop a relationship with a headshot photographer that understands you and your goals. Stick with that person as the years progress. Since a portrait (any kind of portrait) is a collaboration between subject and photographer, the more comfortable you and your photographer are together, the photos that result from your sessions will (arguably) be more authentic.
Next … I recommend you find a photographer that will (contractually) deliver multiple photos per session. Those multiple photographs will allow you to regularly update your many online profiles with fresh content - all while maintaining the same “look and feel” that you want to convey. Don’t go to a photographer who will charge you x number of dollars just to sit for the photos and who will also charge you separately for each photograph they deliver. Yes … that’s a thing. When you come in for a headshot with me, you’ll be my only client for the day. And since you’re my only client for the day, you don’t leave until you’re happy with the photos you’re seeing. You’ll see the photos as they are being taken and you’ll choose your favorite 20-30 photos for editing and delivery before you leave. And … you won’t see any additional charges from me to edit/retouch the photos.
Lastly … although you’ll have 20-30 photos that you can use to regularly update your many online profiles over the course of the next couple of years, I recommend you schedule a new headshot photo session once every two years to ensure your photos still look like you. Regardless of whether you do that or not, my license grants you the right to use your photos however you want for as long as you want. Yes … that’s also a thing.
Career
If you're looking for a new job or want to showcase recently acquired professional skills, your headshot is a key facet of that message. Headshot photographers everywhere will recommend you update your headshots once ever two years at a minimum, but to also mark that new step that you’ve just taken (new position, new skills, etc). When you decide to enter the job market or to tell the world that you’ve reached a new milestone in your career, accentuate that message with a new headshot. It will help draw eyes to your profile, will help you stand apart from other job seekers, and will convey your experience and competence. Remember the old adage that reminds you to “dress for your next position” (as opposed to the position you’re currently in)? An updated and professional headshot will do that for you. It will define your personal brand and will speak to hiring managers when you can’t. You can also use your headshot to promote your participation and leadership in professional events such as business conferences and networking events. Don’t rely on a cell phone snapshot for these purposes! Match your professional abilities with a series of headshots that act as your 24/7, always-on, digital ambassador
Social Media
In today's digital age, social media is a powerful platform for building your personal brand and connecting with potential clients and customers. A high-quality headshot can help you create a consistent image across all your social media channels, making it easier for people to recognize you and remember you. Your headshot should be a clear and eye-catching image that represents you and your brand. Whether you're on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram, your headshot should convey your personality and professionalism.
More
Your headshot can also be used for a variety of other purposes, such as promotional materials, press releases, and personal websites. Whether you're an actor, musician, or speaker, a great headshot can help you showcase your talents and skills to your audience. If you're an author, you can use your headshot for book jackets, book signings, and other promotional materials. And if you're an artist, you can use your headshot to introduce yourself and your work to the world. Making a version of your headshot part of your email signature is also a good way to allow your colleagues, clients, and partners connect your face with your name. Relationships matter in the business world and a professionally lit and posed headshot helps to convey trust and professionalism in the context of business.
At the end of the day, a series of recent headshots that you can regularly update can be a powerful tool to help you communicate your personality and professionalism. Your headshot should accurately represent you and your personal brand, and should be appropriate for the type of use you have in mind and for the industry you’re in. The right headshot will help you create a memorable first impression and will help connect with others as you work to achieve your goals.
Thank you for taking the time to read this article! I hope it has provided some useful insight and information as you consider your headshot photography needs. I understand the importance of professional headshots for businesses and individuals alike and stand ready to help you get high quality, impactful headshots for all of your corporate staff..
As a veteran-owned small business (USAF, 21+ years), I take pride in providing top-notch service to my clients. I am available 24/7 to cater to your headshot and event photography needs. If you're looking for high-quality headshots to represent your company or personal brand, please consider Les Dishman Photography for the task. My expertise, attention to detail, pricing, and commitment to customer satisfaction makes me a perfect choice for your photography needs.
To learn more about my services or to schedule a session, please call me at 310-614-5119 or email me at les@lesdishman.com. I look forward to hearing from you and helping you invigorate and elevate your corporate and/or personal brands!