If your current headshot is more than a couple years old—or worse, cropped from a family photo—it’s probably time to schedule a headshot session.
Headshots are often your first impression. Whether you’re showing up on LinkedIn, your company’s website, speaking at an event, or networking online, people are forming an opinion of you in seconds. A professional, up-to-date headshot tells the world you take your personal brand seriously.
But here’s the thing—your headshot doesn’t have to be boring.
A lot of people assume a good headshot has to be against a plain white or black background. And while that can be totally fine (and sometimes necessary depending on your industry), there are ways to make your headshots more you—while still keeping them clean and professional.
Here are a few ways to make your headshots stand out:
1. Add personality with your environment.
Consider using a lifestyle setting instead of a solid backdrop. A clean, modern chair, a touch of greenery, a textured wall, or a styled shelf in the background can make a big difference. It gives context to who you are and makes the image feel more real.
2. Use props (with intention).
Holding a coffee cup, sitting on a couch, or standing next to a window—these subtle additions can bring warmth and authenticity to your headshots. If you’re a creative or entrepreneur, we can incorporate items from your work life too. Think: laptop, camera, notebook, or branded materials.
3. Choose outfits that reflect your style—but still look polished.
Your wardrobe should match the tone of your brand. Classic neutrals always work, but if color is part of your personality or business, don’t be afraid to bring it into your look.
4. Think beyond just one photo.
During a headshot session, I always recommend capturing a variety of images—some classic, some more relaxed, and a few with different angles or expressions. This gives you a library of images to pull from for different uses: websites, social media, speaking engagements, bios, etc.
5. Work with a photographer who gets you.
It’s not just about taking a pretty picture—it’s about creating a space where you feel confident and relaxed. That’s when the magic happens. A good headshot session feels more like a conversation than a photo shoot.
Final Thought:
Your headshot should feel like you on your best day.
Whether we keep it clean and classic or add in a bit of lifestyle flair, the goal is always the same: to help you show up confidently in your personal brand.
Ready to book your headshot session? Let’s make it happen.
