Let’s be honest, posing for headshot photography can feel a little awkward.
Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn profile or building your brand, there’s always that nagging thought: Do I look stiff? Too serious? Not serious enough?
The good news? Looking confident and polished on camera isn’t about being photogenic; it’s about knowing a few small tricks that make a big difference.
These headshot tips are here to take the guesswork out of your next session.
Posture Isn’t Everything—But It’s Pretty Close
We’ve all heard it a million times: stand up straight. But here’s the thing: how you align your body can be the difference between a standout headshot and one that falls flat. It also quietly shapes the way others perceive you. Think “long spine, relaxed shoulders.”
Drop your shoulders down and slightly back to open up your frame, and tilt your head ever so slightly toward the camera to create that relaxed, confident vibe. It’s a pose that says, “I’m approachable, but I mean business.”
And don’t forget your hands. Even in a tight frame, hidden tension in your fingers or arms can sneak its way into your expression. Give your hands something to do, rest them gently on your lap, or let them hang naturally at your sides if standing.
Your Face Tells a Story—So Rehearse the Right One
We all have a “default face” we slip into when we’re being photographed, and for many of us, it’s not exactly flattering.
Practice different expressions in the mirror. Sounds silly, right? But even a subtle shift in your eyes or the corners of your mouth can turn a neutral look into a warm, self-assured smile.
When in doubt, think of someone you trust walking into the room. That moment of recognition? That’s the expression you want. It’s not about smiling hard, it’s about smiling right.
Also, don’t shy away from taking a few deep breaths between shots. A slow exhale can release facial tension and help your eyes look less “deer in headlights,” more “I’ve got this.”
These small adjustments help you look engaged and confident in a professional portrait, without feeling forced or overly posed.
Choose Clothing That Frames, Not Distracts
Here’s where style meets strategy. Stick to solid colors that flatter your skin tone and avoid loud patterns or overly trendy pieces that might date the image. You want the focus on your face, not your outfit.
A well-fitted blazer, a simple neckline, or a classic button-up shirt often does the trick.
And yes, ironing matters. Wrinkles in clothes can read as messy, even if your hair and makeup are flawless. Looking polished is about the full picture, not just your expression.
Ready to Book? Let’s Make It Count
No one should have to overthink every blink and smile just to get one good photo.
These headshot tips are meant to simplify things, not complicate them, and they’re even more powerful when you’ve got a photographer who knows how to guide you through the process.
That’s where Fotoreflection comes in. From the lighting to the angles to those subtle tweaks that bring out your best side, we’re here to make sure you don’t just look like yourself, you look like the version of you that’s ready for whatever comes next. Contact us today to book your session!