Today’s workplace is competitive, possibly more than it’s ever been. Those searching for work are having to find new ways to stand out among the crowd in hopes of making a lasting impression. While there are many ways to do this, this one thing offers a variety of benefits, and therefore, more bang for your buck. I’m talking about headshots. Professional headshots.

 Before we go into WHY you need a headshot, I would like to take a minute to explain why you need a professional for the job. Of course, cell phones come with amazing cameras these days. It would be easy to have a friend snap a few photos at the park or on a solid wall in your home. And yes, that is better than nothing, but if your goal is to truly make a lasting impression, you need the knowledge and experience of a professional headshot photographer! Professional photographers have an understanding of lighting and posing that will make or break a photo. They can guide you in makeup, hair, and wardrobe selections so you look and feel amazing in front of the camera. And they’re trained in image editing, so you have a beautiful, finished portrait to wow your potential employers or clients. Since there are so many benefits to having an awesome headshot, it’s definitely worth the money.

5 Reasons You Need Professional Headshots

1. First Impressions.

You only get one of those, so make it a great one! This is your chance to put you best foot (ahem, face) forward and make a lasting impression. And not to sound rude, but it’s not necessarily your gorgeous face that’s going to make the impression. No, it’s going to be a very well-done image. One with the just right lighting, pose, and angle.

2. Professionalism.

Since your photo is often the first time an employer or client “meets” you, you want to make sure you’re giving a professional vibe. Showing you’re a professional who takes their job seriously gives you credibility and builds trust.

3. Confidence.

An awesome headshot can go a long way in helping you feel confident. My sessions include hair and makeup artistry, so clients get in front of the camera looking and feeling their best. They are reminded of that feeling every they look at their finished images! Find a photographer who is great at posing and you’ll feel even more confident. Some people want to wait until they lose a few pounds, but there’s really no reason to wait. A good photographer will know flattering poses AND be able to do some slimming in photoshop if that’s something you really want. Just keep in mind that any slimming retouching that is done should be subtle. Friends should see the photo and just think it’s a great picture of you.

4. Personality.

While it is important to be professional, it’s also important to show some personality, and it’s entirely possible to do both! You can add a bit of personality with clothing colors and textures (try to avoid patterns, they don’t photograph well), hair style, background color or scenery, props, or even just your expression. Work with your photographer to make sure your choices will photograph well and get their suggestions. They may have ideas you haven’t thought of yet.

5. Branding.

Branding isn’t just for companies! You are your own brand and your headshot is a great time to show it off. Corporate headshots are another thing to consider when you join a new company. They may want your headshot to be a similar or same style and orientation as their current employees. A good headshot photographer will be able to incorporate new employee’s headshots with the current style.

Your professional headshot is your asset as you search for new opportunities. Make it a quality one. To learn more about headshots with Clo Photography, contact us here. We offer special headshot sessions where hair and makeup are included, and you look and feel your best in front of the camera!