How not to hate having your headshot taken
A good photographer will take you from hating having your headshot taken to loving the entire experience.
Do you hate having your picture taken? Are you self-conscious about your looks or struggling with your weight? Are you unsure on how to pose and afraid that your smile will feel unnatural and forced?
Stepping in front of the camera for headshots can be scary especially when you’ve had a bad experience in the past.
A good photographer will take you from “Camera Shy to Camera Confident,” from hating having your headshot taken to LOVING the entire experience. Let me share with you how.
Choose a photographer who will provide an amazing headshot experience:
- Take time to find a photographer who shows a variety of headshots that showcase the same professional quality so you can be sure to get the same results. When talking about variety you want to see people of color, people of varying body shapes, people wearing glasses, and all age ranges. A photographer who shows consistent quality across all of these areas has the technical skills you want.
- Get on the phone with the headshot photographer to make sure you connect and get all the details of what to expect at your session. Technical skills are important but connecting with you, and helping you prep for your session will make all the difference.
- Communication with your photographer is important through every step.
“This was my second time working with Heike for profile and branding pictures and once again, her work was exceptional. Her process and communication ahead of time is very efficient and she puts you at ease even if you are not a natural behind the camera. Your biggest problem will be picking your favorites among all the images! Highly recommend.”
Stephanie Yarberough, Next Steps Insurance LLC
Prep for your headshot session:
- Prep for your session by choosing clothes that complement your eye color and skin tone. Well fitting shirts and jackets make all the difference in showing off your body. This is important for EVERY body type.
- Get a manicure because your hands can show off your features. If you need a haircut, get one a week before and don’t forget to check your roots. (Men, you’ll want to get some good grooming in as well.)
- Drink a lot of water. Why? It makes your skin look radiant.
Check out this free guide for even more headshot tips
Trust your photographer and let her hold your fears.
A photographer who cares about you will take time to help you relax and give easy instructions on how to pose that will make you look amazing. This is the key to loving your session. Believe in yourself and you will step in front of the camera as the confident and beautiful person that you are.
“It is more important to click with people than to click the shutter.”
Photographer Alfred Eisenstaedt
This blog post was first written for Susquehanna Style.
My hope is that I can be that photographer for you. Let’s connect so that I can hear your fears and hopes and give you an experience that will make you love your headshot session. Your headshot images will be amazing.
Headshot sessions are available at my studio at SUPPLY in Manheim, Pennsylvania and on location with my mobile studio.
When was the last time you truly felt seen?
Photography isn’t about performing or looking a certain way. It’s about presence and allowing who you are and what you bring to be clearly reflected.
From my studio in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, I work with women who lead, build, and carry a lot by helping them create personal branding and portrait images that feel honest, grounded, and aligned with the work they do in the world.
These images aren’t just for marketing. They support clarity, connection, and showing up in a way that feels true.
If you’re curious about what it would feel like to be photographed with intention, I invite you to have a conversation.
