In todays digital world most of us have some sort of digital identity especially if we use Linked in, Facebook, Twitter or Instagram our images are out there they are the modern version of an old business card.
Why is it not good enough to get my other half to take a pic on their phone or use one of my holiday snaps?
Because your headshot is representing your business this includes the background, the lighting and the clothing you are wearing. In order for people to take your business seriously you want them to look at your image and see that you have taken the time to present yourself in a way which reflects your business in a professional style and not taken any short cuts.
I had a shoot 3 years ago why do I need to get another one done?
I think you should get a fresh image taken every year because we all change, we grow our hair, we grow older, we have beards and then we dont (well I don’t but you might). Styles change, it used to be the thing to always wear a tie now its more modern to be shot without a tie with your top button undone. You may also of had some website changes, colour changes so need to keep your image in keeping with the design of your new site.
What colour background should I have?
You can choose a colour or colours if your website is pop art in style! I prefer grey either light grey or dark grey, I just think it’s flattering for most people and will fit well on most sites, its clean and subtle.
What should I wear?
I always say bring along a few items, with jacket without jacket, with necklace without necklace. I do like to keep the style of the image clean so would not advise people to wear loud crazy patterns or lots of jewellery unless it is part of their look and style every day. The key is to create shots of you looking your best, looking natural and showing a glimmer of who you are. I like to take shots of people smiling but also of them having a straight face as sometimes people see something which they like in both one for Linkedin one for a gift for your other half.
What should I look for when choosing a Photographer?
I think it’s important that you feel comfortable with your Photographer as they are going to be the ones to relax you and coach you on how to pose so you need to feel at ease with them. Talk with them or visit their studio before hand to talk through your shoot and any concerns or questions you might have. I would also look at their work make sure they consistently take good images but have a range of samples to show you of different people. Also check the process once you have had your shoot what happens next, I always send my images over as a gallery so my client can look at the images from their shoot in the comfort of their own home and ask for opinions from the people they live with before choosing. Also make sure you know exactly what you get for your fee, double check that there are no hidden costs maybe get your Photographer to outline in an email so you have that to info refer to.
For more info click on my image above to see prices or email me at: lindsay@lindsaywakelinphotography.com