I’m ready for my closeup…
Three tips for a better Headshot or Corporate Portrait:
You know how there’s some people in the world that LOVE to have their picture taken? And you know how there’s also people in the world that just always look “put together”? Well let’s try and make it so we’re all that way when we get ready for our next headshot, corporate portrait or environmental portrait. But you’re asking, what’s the difference between those three things? Let’s break that down before we get to the tips so that we all understand the differences in order to properly prepare and use the tips.
Headshots and Corporate Portraits are quite similar with just a small twist. Headshots are typically made with studio lighting and a backdrop that is either a solid color or has a light pattern, and those images are used for business cards or websites. Corporate Portraits utilize professional lighting and are made in front of a wall of books for someone like an attorney or doctor. Corporate Portraits are a little more upscale and are usually reserved for the heads of large corporations in a way that would demonstrate their stature.
Environmental Portraits are made in the office or environment the professional being photographed typically works in. An Environmental Portrait also utilizes professional lighting mixed with the lighting used in the environment being photographed. Environmental portraits are also a little more relaxed and highlight the personality of the professional more than a headshot would. Environmental Portraits are not just limited to offices, they can be made in workshops and artisanal work areas in order to showcase the work of that artisan or craftsman. Environmental Portraits can be extremely creative.
Now that you understand the differences, let’s get to the tips:
Just say NO to patterns. When choosing what to wear for portrait day, think simple and classy. Dress in items that have solid colors and not patterns. The focus for a really good headshot or portrait is your face. Your client needs to be able to easily identify you when they see you, not be so focused on what you wore that they forget what you looked like. So remember, solid colors, no patterns or flashy designs.
Work on that hair, well, unless you’re bald, then you’re off the hook. Check out your hair a couple days in advance of portrait day and ask yourself if you need a new cut or color. These images will be hanging around for quite a while and you always want to look your best.
Smile. A smile will attract people to you and show that you’re interested in them and approachable. “I hate my teeth.” “I hate my smile.” These are the second most often things I hear past, “I hate having my picture taken.” So then let’s be chill and have fun with your portrait and laugh a little. To be honest, I’m not a fan of having my picture taken either, so let’s try and laugh about this necessity and get through it together. And don’t forget to smile… like you’re mom always wanted you to do in your school pictures.
If you or your company are in need of these service please don’t hesitate to call. I regularly service clients in Los Angeles County and Orange County California. I am based in Monrovia, CA and travel to wherever my services are needed in order to help you look your best.
