8 Professional Headshot Examples to Base Your Session On
Whether you're prepping for a new LinkedIn profile picture, a portfolio shot, or some new assets to add to your website, you might be feeling a little unsure about what makes a great headshot.
A good first step is to look to your peers to identify industry standards and common practices for headshots in your field. Pull these references together to create a mood board of professional headshot examples that you can share with your photographer to highlight the style and tone you want to achieve.
Great Professional Headshot Examples
A great professional headshot is more than just a snapshot of you in a professional setting; it should serve as a portrait that authentically captures your personality. While it’s easy to see some LinkedIn personalities and try to set that as the standard, what makes people stand out is embracing the elements that make them unique. This can make “professional” look a little different across the board — it all comes down to what makes the most sense for your personal brand.
When looking for an example of professional headshots and planning for your headshot session, here are some things to keep in mind.
Lean Into Your Own Unique Look
Your headshot should reflect the real you.
Think about how you choose to show up to your work day in and day out, and channel that same energy when bringing those headshot examples for professionals to life. Maybe you prefer a more casual look, or perhaps your career requires you to stay suited up (or you just prefer that look better). However you present yourself, it’s best to lean into your normal look. You’ll feel most comfortable in your usual wardrobe, and this will help to create a much more authentic headshot.
That goes for accessories, too (which we’ll touch on later). If you love rocking bold accessories or bright colors, go for it.
When It Comes to Smiling vs. Not, It’s About Context
Should you smile in your headshot?
Ultimately, the answer depends on the context. What are you getting the headshots for, and what are the industry norms when looking at professional headshot examples?
In some fields, like hospitality or marketing, you might be looking for a warm smile that can convey approachability and friendliness. For more formal or conservative fields like law or finance, you may favor professional headshot examples that feature a more neutral expression.
The decision is also about the image you want to project. Maybe your personal brand as a hospitality leader is about professionalism and authority, in which case a more serious look might be better. Or, if you want to be known for being a friendly, approachable lawyer, go ahead and give a smile.
Whatever expression you choose, make sure it feels authentic. Forced smiles can come across as insincere, so focus on connecting with the camera in a way that reflects your true personality.
Seek out A Friendly, Conversational Photographer
The secret behind many of the professional headshot examples you love is a photographer who makes their subject feel at ease. Choosing the right photographer can make all the difference in how your headshots turn out.
Seek out a photographer who has an overall warm, relaxed and welcoming atmosphere from your very first conversations. This not only demonstrates that they’ll be easy to work with, but that they’ll help you feel comfortable and confident throughout the session, resulting in more natural-looking photos.
In addition to their demeanor, it’s important to choose a photographer who listens to your preferences and provides helpful guidance. Headshots are not a “one size fits all” — collaboration is key to coming away with headshots that authentically capture your personal brand.
Current trends favor more candid, natural poses over very formal and posed shots. Genuine expressions and relaxed postures are much more relatable when scrolling through LinkedIn or on your company website, so don’t be afraid to loosen up a bit in your headshots.
Keep Your Eyes Engaged
Your eyes are the first aspect of your headshot that viewers will notice, and they play a key role in determining whether it feels authentic.
This is another reason why you need a friendly and comfortable photographer taking your photos — people can see right through disengaged eyes! You won’t have to think about your eyes so much once you’re comfortable, and your personality will shine through when you're relaxed and genuine.
Professional Headshot Examples to Base Your Session On
Bright and Airy Outdoor Settings
Nature's studio offers beautiful lighting and scenery for your headshots — yes, even if you work from an office!
Nature gives a soft, flattering light that can enhance your features and create a vibrant, engaging headshot. Depending on your industry, it can also create an alluring backdrop, whether that’s in the bustle of a city or in a little more of a natural scape.
We have a list that we share with our clients about the best outdoor shooting spots in NYC, which can help take the guesswork out of where to shoot. Your setting should complement your headshot rather than take center stage – you should still be the focal point of the photo!
Unique Clothing
As we mentioned before, it’s key to dress in a way that’s consistent with how you normally present yourself (not based on how you think you need to dress). Consider not only the actual outfit you’re wearing but the color of the clothing and how it complements the setting that your photos are going to be in.
For example, if you’re doing professional headshots for your website, make sure your clothing and background complement the colors of the website.
As far as patterns go, busy patterns or flashy accessories might be your style, and if so, that’s great! But if you’re choosing between busy or simplistic, try to opt for a minimal look so it doesn’t draw too much attention away from your face.
You can also get creative with layering to add depth and visual interest to your look. A tailored blazer over a crisp shirt or a statement necklace can elevate your outfit without overshadowing your face. Plus, it can make for an easy outfit change if you want more than one look.
Hopefully, some of these professional headshot examples can show you the difference between all the different looks you can pick from.
Natural Poses (Though They May Not Feel Natural At First)
Your photographer should direct you into some comfortable poses throughout the session. While all of the best headshot examples appear to be in natural poses, it probably felt a little bit uncomfortable for them at first. That’s okay!
Taking direction from your photographer might feel a little awkward, but try to give in to the process and trust that they’re working to portray you in the most flattering light. Ask your photographer to preview some of the images as you shoot – the confidence boost after seeing yourself in some great headshot examples will really help you to settle in and trust their direction.
Subtle, Complementary Makeup and Accessories
Makeup should enhance, not overpower. Even if you’re looking for a bolder look, remember that if you’re using these photos on multiple different platforms, you might not want them to look too distinct.
Heavy makeup and bold accessories (unless they’re a big part of your personality!) are better for presentations, when people need to see you from further away. As headshots are up close and personal, you can keep things subtle and understated.
Book Johnny Wolf Studio For Your Next Headshots
Johnny Wolf is a professional NYC headshot photographer who takes pride in authentically capturing your brand so you can stand out from the crowd. If you’re ready for an update, reach out and we’ll discuss how to showcase you in the best light.
