# Professional Headshots: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Here's something I hear at the start of almost every headshot session: "I'm really not photogenic." And here's what I tell every single person who says it: you don't need to be photogenic. You need a photographer who knows how to light you, direct you, and make you feel comfortable enough to stop overthinking it. That's my job. Your job is just to show up.

But showing up prepared makes everything easier. So here's the full breakdown of what to expect from a professional headshot session and how to walk in feeling ready.

Who Needs Professional Headshots

The short answer: almost everyone. The long answer:

Corporate professionals and executives. Your LinkedIn photo is your first impression in the business world. Recruiters, clients, and partners are looking at it before they ever meet you. A polished headshot signals competence and credibility. A cropped group photo from a friend's wedding does not. Real estate agents. Your face is on your business cards, your yard signs, your website, and every listing flyer. A strong, approachable headshot is part of your brand. I shoot headshots for dozens of agents across Orange County, and the ones who invest in updated photos consistently tell me it makes a difference in client trust. Actors and performers. This one's obvious. Your headshot is your calling card. Casting directors make split-second decisions based on your photo. It needs to look like you, today, at your best. Entrepreneurs and small business owners. Your "About" page photo matters more than you think. People buy from people they trust, and a professional headshot on your website builds that trust instantly. Anyone updating their professional presence. New job, new role, new company, new decade. If your headshot is more than two years old, it's time for a refresh.

What to Wear

Clothing can make or break a headshot. Here's what works:

Solid colors are your best friend. Jewel tones (deep blue, emerald, burgundy) photograph beautifully on almost everyone. Navy is universally flattering. Black works for a dramatic, editorial look. White can work but requires careful lighting to avoid blowout. Avoid busy patterns. Thin stripes, small checks, and intricate patterns can create a moiré effect on camera, a weird shimmering distortion. Stick to solids or very subtle textures. Bring 2-3 outfit options. I always recommend clients bring a few looks so we can see what reads best on camera. Typically that means one formal option (blazer or suit jacket), one smart-casual option (nice sweater or button-down without a jacket), and one that reflects your personal style or industry. Headshot session outfit options laid out Fit matters more than brand. Clothes that fit well look polished. Clothes that are too loose or too tight read immediately on camera. If something needs tailoring, get it done before the session. Iron or steam everything. Wrinkles are distracting, and while I can retouch minor things, a clean starting point saves everyone time.

Grooming Tips

Hair. Get a haircut 5-7 days before the session, not the day of. Fresh haircuts can look a bit too tight and unnatural on camera. You want it to look like your best normal day. Skin. Stay hydrated the week before. Avoid trying new skincare products right before the session. The last thing you want is an unexpected breakout. If you wear makeup, do your makeup the way you normally would, maybe 10-15% more polished. If you don't usually wear makeup, a light powder to reduce shine is all you need. Facial hair. If you have a beard, trim and shape it the morning of. If you're clean-shaven, shave the morning of to avoid shadow.

How the Session Works

A typical headshot session with me runs about 30-45 minutes, though corporate team sessions are structured differently (usually 10-15 minutes per person, back to back).

Here's the flow:

  • We talk first. I want to know what you need the headshot for, what vibe you're going for, and what you like (or don't like) about previous photos of yourself. This takes five minutes and makes everything that follows better.
  • We set up lighting. I use a combination of studio strobes and natural light depending on the look we're going for. I'll take a few test shots to dial everything in.
  • We shoot. I'll direct you through subtle pose adjustments: chin angle, shoulder position, where to look, how to hold your expression. Most people settle in after the first few minutes and start to relax. That's when the best shots happen.
  • We review. I'll show you a few frames on the back of the camera so you can see the direction we're going. If you want to adjust anything (different outfit, different background, different energy) we pivot.

    • Indoor vs. Outdoor Headshots

    Indoor/studio headshots give you a clean, controlled look. Solid backgrounds, consistent lighting, very polished. This is the standard for corporate teams, LinkedIn, and most professional uses. Outdoor headshots feel more natural and approachable. We use open shade, architectural backgrounds, or greenery to create a lifestyle feel. These work well for entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone who wants their headshot to feel less "corporate." Outdoor headshot with natural background

    I offer both options and am happy to mix them in a single session if you want variety.

    How Many Final Images Do You Get

    My standard headshot session includes 3-5 final retouched images. That's typically enough for a primary LinkedIn photo, a website "About" page image, and a few alternates for different uses.

    Retouching is natural and subtle. I clean up temporary blemishes, even out skin tone, soften under-eye circles, and make minor adjustments. I don't make you look like a different person. The goal is you on your best day.

    Turnaround Time

    Standard delivery is 5-7 business days for fully retouched headshots. If you need a rush turnaround (new job starts Monday, website launching this week), let me know and I can usually accommodate a 48-hour delivery for a small rush fee.

    Book Your Headshot Session

    Whether you're a solo professional updating your LinkedIn or a company needing headshots for your entire team, I'll make the process easy and the results something you're genuinely proud of.

    See headshot packages and book your session here.