There are a few tips you can remember when getting your headshots done. It helps to have an idea of what you are doing before the actual start of the session.

The first thing to remember is that a great photograph is about capturing energy. No matter how well it’s lit or framed, the photo will come across as being contrived without energy. I suggest trying to engage the photographer in conversation to help build that connection. Like in acting, the more you can connect by finding similarities, the better your picture will become.

Try to stay away from any posed and rigid positioning the photo will not pop and tend to look unnatural. It’s also important to know that camera angles can change the way your face is photographed. For example, if the camera is higher than the subject it will tend to capture the eyes and help make them pop. If shot from a lower angle the jaw line will stand out and it will appear stronger. Just moving your head just a bit can greatly change the way your quality comes across.

It’s always good to know if the lighting the photographer is using is soft and even, high contrast, or shadowed.

Along with trying to engage the photographer and being of aware of camera angles and lighting, it is good to think about the framing of the shot. Having your face centered in the photograph will look different if it’s cropped off to the side. Some clients prefer landscape (lengthwise) format opposed to portrait. This is something you can talk with the photographer about.

It never hurts to have idea prior to going into your photo session. If you just leave it up the photographer you may be disappointed with how they frame the shot. Just knowing these simple basic facts helps to make your photo something special. Don’t be afraid to suggest ideas because the more of you is in the shot, the better it will ultimately be.