Headshot Photography & Photography Courses by Anna Saverimuttu Photography

How to Look Great in Photos - Tips to Help You Stand Out from the Crowd for All the Right Reasons

 

Look Great Online & Communicate Your True Value

Do you want to own a professional headshot that you can really be proud of? One that helps you send out exactly the right message to your clients, and that builds trust and confidence in your professionalism? Good preparation is the key to great portraits, so read on to discover my top tips on what you can do before your headshot or personal branding session.

 

Men & Women

  • Try to avoid too many patterns, or ones that conflict - a great portrait should be about you, so your clothes should enhance your features, rather than be a distraction. Therefore, opt for mainly solid colours instead.

  • Steer clear of large amounts of black or white. Not only are these quite difficult to photograph, they can make you look drained or washed out. Similarly, very pale shades don't always show up that well on camera. For men, greys, blues and light browns all work well.

  • A great haircut will really help frame your face.

  • Bring along a comb or brush so that you can do any last-minute touch-ups before your session.

  • A tissue is handy as well, to blot skin in case of shine.

  • Make sure you get a good night's sleep so you look your best.

Women

  • Whilst it's entirely up to you what colours you choose, bright colours look amazing for women's portraits, and will really add some zing and sparkle. Think bright blues, pinks and greens. You don't have to wear much - just a splash can be effective.

  • Keep necklines simple and uncluttered.

  • Opt for well-fitted clothes. Large, loose-fitting garments create extra volume, and can end up looking too shapeless for a portrait. Clothes that fit you well are generally going to be more flattering.

  • Well chosen accessories that aren't too dominant, such as one striking piece of jewellery, can also look great.

  • Hair and Makeup. If you enjoy wearing makeup, a little more than usual won't look out of place, as natural light tends to soak up a lot of colour. So feel free to wear that bright lipstick or add a little more blusher. Prefer a more natural look? It's still a good idea to prep your skin before being photographed, anyway; apply some primer, tinted foundation/concealer, blusher, a light dusting of powder, and a tinted lip colour (Benefit, MAC, Smashbox & Look Fabulous Forever do some great products). This will give your complexion a polished and professional look and help control any shine. And if you like the idea of using a professional hair and makeup artist, then I know some amazing ladies I can put you in touch with.

Finishing Touches

  • Props. Are there any props that will help to tell the story of who you are? If you're booking a personal branding session, then feel free to bring along the tools of your trade, or any inspirational books that you've read. These will help me build up a more complete picture, so that prospective clients can truly engage with you.

  • Last, but not least - don't forget to smile! Don't worry, I shan't be forcing you to give a cheesy grin. My photography is all about creating natural and genuine portraits that let the real you shine through. A real smile shows in a person's eyes, and that's what builds trust and makes them look approachable.