WHY DO I NEED A PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOT?

Investing in a professional headshot not only shows your prospective clients who you are but it is an extension of your brand. Using a professional photographer not only benefits you, but it benefits your business. Your headshot should be positioned in a way that reflects who you are, what your business environment is, and what emotion you want to convey towards your clients. The work you do is strategically done with an emphasis on what the client will ultimately think, and your professional portrait should do the same.

Why Headshots Matter?

In an age of everything going digital, a professional headshot is an absolute must. Have you ever been in a frantic rush because you need a picture for a magazine or press release? Or imagine being mentioned in the newspaper and you don’t even have a decent photograph of yourself. Therefore, selfies or a cropped family photo won’t work, you need an image that displays yourself or you risk undermining your cause. The perception of your brand will never line up with its values if you cannot show your clients the experience or products through proper pictures. Not only do you want to build trust, but you also want to ensure it to your clients by having high-quality images of yourself for multiple needs.

Benefits of Professional Headshots

Most people know that making a good first impression happens during an interview, but what they may not realize is that that first impression may have already happened online. Employers love to explore social media, and that Facebook link you have on your resume will most certainly be searched. On LinkedIn alone, having a profile photo results in up to 21 times more profile views and nine times more connection requests. Make sure the head shot you use is professional and a good reflection of who you are. 

Networking is important no matter where you are in your career. Your connections can help you find new opportunities, be of service to other professionals, or even engage in a new consulting gig. A professional head shot is memorable, so it certainly should be considered a networking must-have. Remember, headshots aren't just used for digital platforms; add one to your business card, so that every time you hand one out, your professional image is in the forefront of their mind.

Confidence others have in your professional abilities runs parallel with the image they have of you as a professional. With a professional head shot, you’re proud of, you'll take yourself seriously and others will, too. A great head shot ensures you're making the best impression possible, which builds confidence and trust when others see your image, whether it be online or on a business card.

What Are Professional Headshots Used For?

If you look professional, potential clients, investors, collaborators, etc. that don’t know you personally are going to be more likely to agree to that first meeting. They have already made their impression and your headshot might determine their final decision.

1. A good headshot gives people an idea of who you are not only professionally, but personally, too. A smile, smirk, or serious look all convey different messages and emotions. Make sure your headshot matches who you are. People enjoy consistency.

2. A current headshot shows people what you look like now. An old headshot is inauthentic and comes off untrustworthy, so you want to make sure your headshot is consistent with what you currently look like. 

3. It supports and enhances the skills and experience on your LinkedIn profile, making you stand out from the rest. One hint specific to LinkedIn is to look to the left so you are looking at your profile.

4. It makes you feel good to look your best. Having a quality image of yourself to share with your professional peers boosts your self-confidence, and it can even inspire you to share more of yourself with others, take a few risks, and overcome work-related challenges.

Need a professional headshot?

Take the next step for your image, brand, and reputation. Think about how you want others to view you and what you have to offer. Who is this person as a professional? Who do they want to be? What are they doing to get there? These are questions that people answer based on first impressions. Let your professional headshot answer in truthful ways and schedule your appointment today!