The Different Types Of Headshots: A Comprehensive Guide

Unlocking the secrets to the perfect headshot can elevate your personal or professional brand to new heights.

Corporate Headshots: Professionalism at Its Best

Corporate headshots are designed to portray an image of professionalism, competence, and reliability. These types of headshots are typically used on company websites, LinkedIn profiles, and other professional platforms. The goal is to convey trust and competence, making the subject appear approachable yet authoritative.

Lighting in corporate headshots is usually focused on highlighting the center of a persons face, especially the eyes, with minimal shadows to ensure that the face is clearly visible. The background can vary from an office setting to a simple solid color, often in neutral tones (grey, white, blue) to keep the focus on the individual. Attire is generally professional, such as suits, blazers, or business casual wear.

Artistic Headshots: Expressing Your Unique Style

Artistic headshots break away from the conventional to showcase a person's unique style and personality. They are often used by actors, musicians, artists, and other creatives who want to stand out and make a bold statement. These headshots can be highly stylized, incorporating dramatic lighting, unique angles, and creative backgrounds.  Many individuals who come into the studio for corporate headshots, often include a few artistic headshots in their final selections for dynamic mix of images.

The key to a successful artistic headshot is to capture the essence of the subject's individuality. This might involve experimenting with different poses, facial expressions, and wardrobe choices that reflect the person's artistic persona. The end result is a headshot that not only represents the individual but also tells a story.

Bold and Vibrant vs. Neutral Tones: Choosing Your Color Palette

When it comes to headshots, the choice of color palette can significantly impact the final image. Bold and vibrant colors can make a headshot pop, drawing immediate attention to the subject. These are often used in artistic or creative headshots where making a strong impression is key.

On the other hand, neutral tones offer a timeless and versatile look. They are commonly used in corporate headshots where the focus is on professionalism and subtlety. Neutral backgrounds and attire ensure that nothing distracts from the subject's face, making the image suitable for a wide range of professional uses.

Background Choices: Office vs. Solid Backgrounds

The background of a headshot plays a crucial role in setting the tone of the image. An office background can add context and authenticity, especially for corporate headshots. It suggests that the subject is in a professional environment, adding to their credibility.

Solid backgrounds, often in colors like white, grey, or blue, offer a clean and distraction-free look. They keep the focus entirely on the subject, making them ideal for both corporate and artistic headshots. The simplicity of a solid background allows for greater flexibility in how the image is used, from professional profiles to marketing materials.

Both solid and office background images can be captured in the same studio (or on location studio) setting with the use of various background options.  An office isn't needed to create an office background look.

Poses and Expressions: From Uniform to Fun and Confident

The pose and expression in a headshot can convey a lot about the subject's personality and the intended message. Uniform poses, such as a straightforward head-and-shoulders shot, are often used in corporate headshots to project a sense of reliability and consistency. A confident smile or a serious, focused expression can further enhance this image.

For artistic or more casual headshots, non-uniform poses and fun expressions can add a layer of personality and approachability. Whether it's a candid laugh, a thoughtful gaze, or a quirky pose, these elements can make the headshot more engaging and memorable. The key is to match the pose and expression to the purpose of the headshot and the personality of the subject.

Looking For Corporate or Group Headshots?

Let's talk!  I offer corporate and group headshots on location, in company offices and in my studio.  Contact me to discuss which option works best for you.