How to Prepare for Your Professional Headshot: 5 Tips from a Long Beach Photographer

Your headshot usually introduces you before you do.

Before the meeting, the handshake, or the first hello, someone has probably already looked you up on LinkedIn, your company website, or a speaker page.

And let’s be honest, we’ve all seen headshots that look nothing like the person who walks through the door.

A great headshot should look like you on your best day. Confident, approachable, and completely yourself. Just with really good lighting.

I’ve been behind the camera since 2007, and these are five things I recommend to help you get the most out of your professional headshot session.

Tip #1: Know Where Your Headshot Will Be Used

Before you start planning outfits, think about where your photograph is going.

LinkedIn? Your company website? A speaking engagement? Your business cards? Maybe you’re updating everything.

Different uses can call for different looks.

A corporate website might need a clean, consistent background, while personal branding photographs can show a little more personality.

Knowing how you’ll use your photographs helps us plan the background, framing, and expressions.

Not sure what you need yet?

That’s completely fine. We’ll figure it out together.

Tip #2: A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

You don’t need a glam team to get a great headshot.

Come dressed the way you’d show up for an important day, with your hair styled how you like it and clothing that makes you feel comfortable.

If you’d like some extra help getting ready, professional hair and makeup is available as an optional add-on for individual sessions.

It’s never required.

Here are a few things I recommend:

Choose clothing that feels like you.
You don’t need to wear a suit if that’s not how you normally present yourself professionally.
Stick with solid colors and simple textures.
They photograph beautifully without distracting from your face.
Plan your outfits around your session.
Some headshot packages include one outfit, while others allow multiple looks. We’ll go over that before your appointment.
Avoid wearing something brand new that you’ve never tried on.
You want to feel comfortable moving and posing.
Bring a few touch-up essentials.
A comb, lip balm, powder, or lint roller can come in handy.
Wear glasses every day? Bring them.
We’ll work with the lighting to minimize unwanted reflections.

The goal is to look like yourself, not someone you think you’re supposed to be.

Tip #3: Rest Up, But Don’t Stress If You Can’t

If you can, get a good night’s sleep before your session.

Drink some water, give yourself enough time to get ready, and try not to rush in straight from traffic.

And if you show up tired?

You’re in good company.

Deadlines, kids, long weeks. Life happens.

That’s what I’m here for.

I’ll help with lighting, posing, and finding the angles that bring out your best.

You don’t need to show up looking perfect.

Tip #4: The Right Expression, Not Just the Biggest Smile

A headshot doesn’t always mean a big smile.

It means finding the right expression.

Some people want to look warm and approachable. Others prefer something more confident and composed.

And plenty of clients want a little of both.

We’ll figure out what works for your personality and how you want to present yourself professionally.

And don’t worry, I’m not going to leave you standing in front of the camera wondering what to do with your face.

I’ll guide you through it.

Tip #5: You Don’t Need to Know How to Pose

Most people aren’t professional models, and I don’t expect you to be.

Sometimes the smallest adjustments make the biggest difference.

A slight turn of your shoulders.
A change in posture.
Moving your chin just a little.

Even a small adjustment to your expression can completely change how a photograph feels.

That’s where I come in.

I’ll guide you through the posing, expressions, and lighting so you don’t have to figure everything out yourself.

You just need to show up.

I’ll take care of the photography.

What Makes My Headshot Sessions Different

One of the things I hear most often is:

“I’m terrible at taking pictures.”

Trust me, you’re not the only one.

You don’t need to know how to pose or what to do with your hands.

That’s my job.

I’ve been behind the camera since 2007, and I know how much of a difference a little guidance can make.

Sessions take place in my private Downtown Long Beach studio, where I’ll guide you through the process and help you feel comfortable in front of the camera.

Whether you need professional headshots for LinkedIn, executive portraits, branding photographs, or updated images for your business, we’ll work together to create photographs that represent you.

I also offer corporate team headshots and on-site photography experiences for businesses throughout Long Beach, Los Angeles, and Orange County.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a headshot session take?

Individual headshot sessions range from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the package you choose.

Do I need professional hair and makeup?

Not at all.

Professional hair and makeup is available as an optional add-on, but it’s not required.

Many clients arrive ready for their session on their own.

How many outfits should I bring?

That depends on your session package.

Some sessions include one outfit, while others allow multiple looks.

I’ll help you plan your wardrobe before your appointment.

What if I’m uncomfortable in front of the camera?

You’re definitely not alone.

Most people aren’t used to being professionally photographed.

I’ll guide you through posing, posture, and expressions throughout your session.

You don’t need any experience.

Can you photograph my entire team?

Absolutely.

I offer on-site corporate team headshots for businesses that want consistent, professional photographs of their employees.

We can discuss your team size, location, and photography needs during your consultation.

Ready for Headshots That Actually Look Like You?

You don’t need to know how to pose.

You don’t need to figure out your best angles.

And you definitely don’t need to be a natural in front of the camera.

That’s what I’m here for.

Whether you’re updating LinkedIn, refreshing your professional image, or planning headshots for your entire team, let’s talk about what you need.

Serving Long Beach, Los Angeles, and Orange County.