What is your headshot saying about you?
Environmental headshot of a therapist in Ridgefield CT
When we share a headshot, or any kind of branding photograph in the marketplace, it is communicating something. What does your headshot say about you? Are you an expert at what you do? Can I trust you? Will I feel comfortable working with you? These are some of the questions we are answering with a headshot or a branding photo whether we know it or not. It is so important to be intentional about how we are answering those questions and an effective headshot will do that.
Facial Expressions - choosing them on purpose, but making them real. That’s the trick.
Facial expressions transcend language, countries, and even cultures. How cool is that? Emotions are conveyed through specific facial cues. Understanding expressions and what they mean can help us be intentional about what we are saying with our headshots.
Let’s Get Specific about what your expression is saying by looking at some of the most common expressions seen in headshots.
A Genuine Smile - How do you smile for real? You smile with your eyes. That’s not just poetry, a real smile involves the muscles around your mouth and the muscles around your eyes. So smile for real, the camera will know the difference.
ProTip - If it’s tricky to find a real smile on cue, try bringing someone or something to mind that you love or something that makes you laugh. Let it really be there. And let the smile happen. If that doesn’t work you can try not to smile. (Ever get the giggles in a place or time you’re not supposed to?). And play with degrees of smiling. Maybe just a slight smile that finds its way in. Or an actual laugh. An authentic smile says, "I'm here for real, I’m relaxed enough to be smiling for real, and I’m open to connecting with you."
A Neutral or Confident Expression - Don’t mistake this for a blank look, that would be a hugely missed opportunity. A neutral look can be quite present.
Pro Tip - Try closing your eyes, taking a deep breath in, opening your eyes and just allowing yourself to be seen. Really seen. Or flip it . Open your eyes and really look at what you’re looking at. Look with intention; to understand, to connect. Take your time. Take up space. Don't be surprised if there is quite a fire behind your eyes. It can convey professionalism, confidence, or the ability to listen or to focus. It can say “I’m here for all of it, no matter what comes.”
Modern headshot of a Producing Director in Fairfield County CT
Matching Expressions to Goals
Choosing a facial expression in your headshot should be intentional and align with your goals. A headshot is so much more than a flattering picture of you. It is a chance to connect and to communicate; to convey an impression of trust, approachability, and competence in the eyes of your audience. It's your opportunity to make a positive, memorable impression before you even say a word.
Be real. It shows.
Environmental headshot of a Real Estate Agent and Interior Designer in Fairfield County CT
In a world filled with photo filters and AI, authenticity stands out. Know what you want to say, and say it.
Working with a Headshot Photographer that you feel comfortable with
Collaborating with a photographer is an act of trust. Energy is very real and even very subtle changes come across in the images we capture. My goal with every client is to create a comfortable environment where they are comfortable enough to be seen. That’s no small thing, and something I don’t take lightly. If you are looking for new headshots that you will feel great about sharing I would love to connect with you!