What is a personal brand headshot?

A professional portrait of a business person, with a clear intention and purpose, crafted using a marketing approach.

Why do you need one?

You have expertise, knowledge and experience to share. A story to tell. A good photograph will help you step into focus and confidently stand out in your industry.

Where to start?

Ahh, that’s where I come in, to help you.

Have you ever looked at someone’s profile image to see what you can tell about them? Chances are, your eyes were drawn to theirs first. But their clothing choices, style, colour palette, body language, expression, and environment all come together to represent their unique identity - or personal brand.

This guide aims to set out the elements that make up your visual brand identity so you can represent yourself in a way that feels both authentic and impactful.

I’ve organised this blog using my photography business strapline: Be you. Be visible. Be your best.

*This is my personal brand headshot. It is carefully curated to reflect my three words which fall under the* ***sincerity*** *dimension:* ***Genuine. Caring. Cheerful.*** *My signature head band, style of dress, colour palette, work-specific props (including my trusty Canon camera) and a combination of shapes all work together to be welcoming and approachable.*

BE YOU

I suggest my clients start by considering these two questions:

What three words would you use to describe your essence or personality?

If you’re not sure, ask colleagues or friends, or try using social psychologist Jennifer Aaker’s five dimensions of brand personality model as a starting point. Remember, you can be a combination of these traits!

Sincerity: honest, genuine, cheerful, down-to-earth
Excitement: daring, spirited, imaginative, current
Competence: reliable, intelligent, successful, efficient
Sophistication: glamorous, charming, romantic
Ruggedness: outdoorsy, tough, strong, rugged

Keep these words in mind and share them with me when I see you on the day.

What do you see yourself doing in five years?

Understanding your vision helps me clarify the intent and purpose of the photograph. I usually recommend presenting yourself as if you’re already in your next role when you’re photographed - except, of course, for one client who, at the top of his corporate career, saw himself gardening within five years! I’d love for you to share your vision with me too.

BE VISIBLE

What is your personal brand colour palette?

Think about shades that reflect your personality and complement your style - what you feel most ‘yourself’ wearing.

Colours that make you feel and look your best - your favourite colours
A muted or bold palette that aligns with your brand personality (above)

*This is my colour palette - you can see from my personal brand photograph, I added a splash of orange as an accent - which is the colour of my favourite tea mug!*

My logo was designed at the start of my photography journey and I still love it just as much as I did 10 years ago. I think it reflects my brand perfectly

Consider the shapes your clothing and props bring to the image

Create a strong, clear silhouette by wearing fitted clothes. The clothes you choose indicate your personality too - so consider an outfit that complements our canvas. If you’re not sure, a classic shirt and jacket is always a good choice.

Pay attention to the little details that make a big difference:

Ironed shirts, crisp collars, and lint-free fabrics
Clothes that fit well without feeling restrictive
Buttons present and neat
Prepare hair, teeth and nails
If you’re in a role where a prop would add value and context, please bring it with you

Which setting or background would suit your personality best?

I can advise you on the best setting/location and portrait length options below - as well as helping you relax, move and pose in a natural way, and share your personality. These points just give you a little insight into the options available.

Indoors - plain background for a clean, professional look
Indoors - environment (at your desk, by a window) for a more relatable image
Outdoors - architectural structures (stairs, pillars) for a bolder, stronger photograph
Garden/greenery to add a sense of calm or creativity

Close up, or further away?

A longer portrait - to mid-thigh gives a more contemporary, executive impression, while a traditional headshot has a closer, more intimate feel. The choices are:

Head and shoulders only (up to your third shirt button)
Mid-length (just below your waist)
3/4 shot (mid-thigh)

As you can see from my photograph (above), I chose a coffee shop environment as the setting for my portrait because I love meeting my clients for a welcome chat and cuppa and sometimes sit in co-working spaces for a bit of company when I edit images!

BE YOUR BEST

You will shine at the photoshoot!

The best preparation is to set your mindset to “relaxed mode”.

If you need help, think of a moment where you felt intense pleasure and pride in an achievement and the impact it had on others. A ‘high’ you would like to replicate many times in your life. Mentally savour that feeling and notice everything you can about the moment and how it makes you feel. Anchor it and call on it during the shoot if you need to.

Don’t worry about posing or body language - I will be observing you closely while I am chatting to you to you during the session. I have all sorts of tricks and techniques to get the best out of you in the time we have together. You will be Your Best.

Read a little more general information about preparing for your headshot here.

If you have any questions, please reach out to me here.

I look forward to meeting you!

Personal brand photography