When you spend money on a high quality, professional headshot it is an investment into your brand. Your headshot shows the best you, the way that you would want potential clients to see you. Most people are not naturally photogenic, so a bit of professional help is needed. The result of an amateur taking your headshots can end up making you look very different than you do in person. Only a professional headshot photographer knows how to position you just right, how to light you and the best techniques that will compliment you best.

Not only are headshot photographers going to know how to pose you, they will also know what would be best to wear. Giving thought to the intent the photos will be used, the photographer can offer suggestions on your wardrobe. Most would agree, you should dress as you would in your normal work environment. If you’re in executive management, you may want to wear a suit. A doctor or nurse may want to wear their lab coat. If you are fisherman, where what you would on the boat. Some may have a bit more flexibly in their “work uniform” so in this case you can wear colors flattering to your hair color and skin tone. Either way you go, solid colors work best for men and women. For men, adding a touch of color can be subtle as with a classic suit with a brightly colored tie. Woman can wear a top that is brightly colored.

Social media has taken on such an important role when it comes to promoting our abilities, having a great headshot will certainly give a wow factor and is more important than ever to stand out from the crowd. The very start of each social profile is a profile image, it is the first thing people see. Even with a company website, your headshot will grab the attention of the viewer, you want this to be in a positive way.

So, if you’re still wondering if you need to get a professional headshot or will you have your best friend with a camera take it? Here are the six reasons why you need a professional to take them.

1. Professionalism

Your picture will often be the first thing that clients or colleagues notice, you want to come across as professional. Looking the part will always give you an advantage over your competition to schedule that first meeting or start your sales pitch.

2. Personality

A great headshot will give people a general idea of your personality before they meet you. A smile will make you more approachable and friendly. A serious look may give a stern message or relay a look of determination. Whatever you do, make sure your expression matches your personality and profession. Most would agree a smile works best.

3. Recognition

It serves to remind your contact who you are and if you’ve met in passing at conference or business function. This recognition will make it far more likely that they accept your friend or follow request. 

4. Current

A current headshot lets people know what you look like now. Can you recall meeting someone that used an old photo? There is usually an immediate disconnect when this happens. It isn’t good to surprise people in this way, it sends a message that you aren’t authentic.

5. Credibility

It boosts up and supports your skill and experience level on profiles like LinkedIn, helping you stand out. A hint for LinkedIn is to turn your head slightly left, so you are looking towards your Profile.

6. Self Confidence

Having a great headshot of yourself will make you feel good about sharing with your peers and it may inspire you to put yourself out there even more, take more risk and help overcome work-related challenges.

Professional headshots aren’t just for the C Suite executives, everybody should have one. If you are using a selfie, or an out of date photo, I encourage you to find a headshot photographer. Normally people put this off for one reason or the other but there’s no better time than now. With a fantastic headshot, you’ll show your unique personality and possibly open doors to new business and opportunity.