In A Nutshell: Because It’s Your First Impression

You only have one shot at a good first impression a Professional Headshot is a must.
When choosing a photographer look at their work, do you like it?
Hire a photographer whose work shows consistency, variety and skill.
Look for images that captivate you.

Why A Professional Business Headshot Is So Important

When you decide to post a Professional Headshot anywhere on line, you are creating the first impression of yourself and introducing yourself to the world. You are communicating something about yourself. Nowadays, employers and anyone seeking to hire, collaborate or work with, turn to social media like Linked-in, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to check YOU out. Others may just Google you, you probably have done this yourself! When they do this, your Professional Headshot is bound to be the first thing they see in their search results. Here is where you will make the cut or not. In a previous blog post of mine, I mentioned that when President Lincoln, (yes the one on the penny) first decided to run for president, the first thing he did was to make an appointment at his photographer’s studio for his headshot. Even back then he knew the power of optics and branding.
The Professional headshot is a window into who you are, your personality and your style. Therefore, you should reflect the persona and visual style you want to project.
If you are a business owner, a custom business headshot is an extension of your cohesive brand and your corporate identity. If you have multiple employees, the headshots should reflect a unified look while showcasing each individual’s personality.

Hiring A Professional Headshot Photographer, What To Consider

The most important thing to consider when hiring a professional photographer is his/her body of work. Look at the headshot portfolio, do you like what you see? Is there a variety of looks, can you “see” what you have in mind? If your needs are very specific, let’s say you are a author, a standard headshot is not what you are looking for.
We ask our clients what the image is going to be used and customize it for each client. Do you see different backdrops, different lighting, are there images in the studio as well as outdoors? Look at the reviews, these are a glimpse at the photographer in many ways; you will get a feel for their dedication, professionalism and results. Remember, price is not the primary consideration, results are what you need to make it happen.
When you see my professional headshots portfolio, you find a great variety of poses, emotions, lighting, backgrounds, styles and locations. The reason for this is that every person needs a very specific image and I create the image based on the input of each client. Therefore, each person gets a custom image.

Professional Headshot: The Details

Look carefully at the little details: retouching, retouching, retouching. Retouching is what separates a perfect image from a so so image. Obviously the image has to be well executed, meaning lighting, posing, expression, mood etc. Retouching must look real and natural, in other words, you don’t notice it. Nothing is worst than a good professional headshot where the tie is crooked or the skin has imperfections.
Of course, a lay person does not know about lighting or retouching, but once you see enough good images, you will get a feel for it. Look at my images, see the lighting and retouching – the lighting is one of my differentiating factors and my retouching is natural. Lighting is a way to create mood and make images stand out. The goal of expert retouching is to present you in the best light. We create unique images that are tailored to your needs and industry. We even offer several specific Tips and Advice on this topic on our website. It is a whole process from the moment you contact us til the image is finished.  At Lloyd’s Studio we make you look good!

Professional Headshot: What Is The Next Step?

Call us! We are here to help you. If you have something in mind, send us a sample. We plan the studio shoot or scout your location in advance and give you concise advise from style to makeup to wardrobe etc., so the day of the shoot goes flawless. If you are not sure of what you need, we are here to help you explore the possibilities to come up with the right image for you.

You hire me to do your business headshots and I will take care of everything. My job is to guide you so you get the best image to further your career and be an asset to your company. Remember, the first impression is created with a good professional headshot.
Call or contact us now to discuss your professional headshot style and book your appointment.