Professional Headshot Starter Guide (For Novice Photographers)
The primary goal of a professional headshot is to create a compelling, confident, and approachable image that focuses entirely on the subject's eyes and face,
while remaining a true and honest representation of the person.
Part 1: The Essential Do's (What to Focus On)
| Focus Area | Core Instruction | Key Details |
| 1. Lighting | Use soft, flattering light. | Natural Light is easiest: Position the subject facing a large window (or in open shade outdoors). This provides soft, even light. Avoid: Direct, harsh sunlight, which creates unflattering shadows under the eyes and nose. |
| 2. Expression | Capture genuine connection and confidence. | Engage the subject in conversation to get a relaxed look. Tell them to "smile with their eyes." Always focus on the eyes. A slight lean forward can add energy and connection. |
| 3. Background | Keep it simple and non-distracting. | Use a solid, neutral color (gray, off-white, or navy) or an outdoor setting where the background is intentionally blurred. Ensure there are no distracting objects, patterns, or bright spots. |
| 4. Posing | Shoot from the chest up and keep the posture relaxed. | Have the subject sit or stand up straight. For a flattering look, ask them to slightly push their forehead/chin forward towards the camera to define the jawline. Use a professional-grade lens (like an 85mm) to avoid facial distortion. |
| 5. Technical | Ensure the image is sharp and high-resolution. | Check that the eyes are perfectly in focus. Frame the shot so the head and shoulders fill most of the frame. Use camera settings appropriate for a sharp portrait (e.g., a shallow depth of field, like f/2.8 to f/4, to blur the background). |
Part 2: Ethical Editing and Critical Don'ts (What to Avoid)
| Area to Avoid | The Mistake | The Result |
| Physical Alteration (CRITICAL) | DO NOT physically alter the person's bone structure, body shape, or permanent facial features. | This disqualifies the person for the intended purpose. The viewer must not be "tricked" into believing the person looks different from reality. Edits should be limited to temporary issues (e.g., blemishes, flyaway hair). |
| Focus & Clarity | Using blurry, dark, or low-resolution images. | This immediately looks unprofessional and will be rejected by clients. |
| Retouching | Over-editing, heavy filters, or excessive skin smoothing. | The image must look like the person walking into the room. Excessive retouching looks artificial and damages client trust. |
| Clothing | Distracting outfits, busy patterns, or logos. | The eye should go to the face, not the shirt. Stick to solid colors that complement the subject's skin and industry. |
Part 3: Non-Destructive Editing Workflow (Your Professional Standard)
When editing, adhere to a
non-destructive workflow using software like Photoshop or similar programs that utilize layers:
- Work in Layers: All changes (retouching, color correction, dodging, and burning) must be done on separate layers or adjustment layers.
- Maintain Control: This layer-based method allows you to leave the project and return later to decrease or adjust the effect's opacity as needed.
- The Minimalist Goal: The final goal is to reduce temporary distractions (like shine, temporary blemishes, or lint) until the benefit of the effect is achieved without it being noticed by the casual observer. If the edit is obvious, it is too much.
Do you have any questions about specific editing tools or techniques you'd like to be addressed?
The secret to success is to list what you are going to do and get subjects to practice.
We always make mistakes. By finding them you set yourself up for improvement and certain success.
Critique your own work in a new layer in photoshop, where you use a paint brush and a bold contrasting color to circle areas where mistakes have been made. Then as soon as possible repeat the shoot until it’s perfect to your eyes!
