in: Public Relations
by: Kim Washam
A headshot is a powerful tool in your brand and PR "toolbelt". Whether you're an entrepreneur using it on your website or an expert using it to pitch yourself to the media as an on-air expert, this piece of branding material should be professional and also reflect your brand and area of expertise.
How can you be sure you're headshot is worth the investment of time and money?
Here are six tips for entrepreneurs planning their headshots.
Don't be afraid to step outside the norm of traditional "studio" headshots. Brand your headshot like you do your business. Put a little personality into your shots, but don't go so far outside the box you distract from the star of your headshot: YOU!
Jam to your favorite tunes right before or during your session, it will help you relax and find the most natural YOU.
Shoot on location. To me shooting on location is a unique way to make your head shots unique. Shoot somewhere that helps define your business. Are you a fun, hip urban company? Then shooting in an industrial area with nice worn bricks, rust perhaps. Is your line of work more conservative? Maybe visit a park, personal office space or home (with decent daylight exposure). Really try to fit where you are shooting to your brand or the vibe you want to give off.
If you're a woman, wear makeup but keep it natural. Think lunch business meeting, not Saturday night in the Meatpacking District or late night party.
Update your headshot every 2-3 years, keep the face behind your business fresh. You also need to be able to deliver the press a true-to-life photograph of yourself, not an out-of-date image.
Try and avoid alcohol or high sodium foods the day before. No one looks good with "Sushi Face". Drink lots of water in the days leading up to the shoot, it really does wonders for your skin, and this is all about putting your best face forward! Literally!
