Tips for Taking a Headshot That Reflects Your Personal Brand

Your headshot is more than just a photo—it’s a powerful tool for personal branding. Whether it’s for LinkedIn, your website, or business cards, a headshot should reflect who you are and what you stand for. A well-crafted headshot not only creates a strong first impression but also communicates your professionalism, personality, and values.

At Kat Squibb Portraits, we specialize in capturing headshots that go beyond the standard, helping you showcase your personal brand. Here are some essential tips for taking a headshot that reflects your personal brand and leaves a lasting impression.

1. Consider Your Brand’s Message

Before you step in front of the camera, think about what you want your headshot to say about you. Are you trying to convey authority and professionalism? Or are you aiming for a more approachable and creative vibe? Your headshot should align with your industry and the image you want to project.

For example, a corporate executive may opt for a more formal pose with professional attire, while a creative entrepreneur might go for something more relaxed and expressive. At Kat Squibb Portraits, we help our clients tailor their headshots to fit their personal and professional branding goals.

2. Dress to Impress (But Stay True to You)

Your clothing choices can make a huge difference in how your headshot comes across. While it’s important to look polished and professional, your outfit should also reflect your personal style. If you’re in a more formal industry like law or finance, stick to tailored suits or blouses. If you’re in a creative field, you might choose something that shows off your unique flair.

Pro Tip: Stick to solid colors and avoid bold patterns or logos that can distract from your face. Neutral tones like navy, gray, and black are always safe bets, but don’t be afraid to incorporate colors that complement your skin tone and reflect your personality.

At Kat Squibb Portraits, we guide you through outfit choices to ensure that you’re dressed for success while staying authentic to your brand.

3. Pay Attention to Your Pose

Your posture says a lot about you, so it’s important to strike the right balance between relaxed and professional. Standing too stiff can make you look rigid or uncomfortable, while overly casual poses might not convey the level of professionalism you need.

A professional photographer can coach you through poses that reflect confidence without looking forced. Slightly angling your shoulders, keeping your posture upright, and leaning slightly forward can create a more engaged and approachable look.

At Kat Squibb Portraits, we guide clients through natural, flattering poses that align with their personal brand, ensuring they look both confident and approachable in every shot.

4. Use Expression to Your Advantage

Your facial expression can make or break a headshot. A blank or overly serious expression might come across as unapproachable, while a broad smile could be too casual, depending on your industry. The goal is to convey approachability, confidence, and warmth.

Pro Tip: Practice in the mirror before your headshot session to find an expression that feels natural. A soft smile, with a hint of warmth in your eyes, often works best for conveying openness and professionalism.

At Kat Squibb Portraits, we work with clients to capture expressions that feel authentic and reflect the personality they want to project.

5. Choose the Right Background

The background of your headshot should complement, not compete with, your personal brand. If you work in a corporate setting, a clean, neutral background like gray or white may work best. For more creative or outdoor professionals, a soft-focus environmental background may help tell your story.

At Kat Squibb Portraits, we offer a variety of background options, from simple studio setups to more personalized settings that reflect your work environment or brand aesthetic. Whatever you choose, make sure it enhances your headshot rather than distracting from the main subject—you.

6. Lighting Matters

Lighting is a critical element of any great headshot. Poor lighting can cast unflattering shadows, make your skin look dull, or cause distracting glare. On the other hand, good lighting can enhance your best features, give your skin a healthy glow, and create a professional finish.

At Kat Squibb Portraits, we use professional-grade lighting techniques to ensure that your headshot is well-lit and flattering, no matter the setting. Whether it’s natural light or studio lighting, we ensure the lighting complements your face and creates the right mood for your personal brand.

7. Be Yourself

The most important tip of all is to be yourself. A great headshot should reflect the real you, so it’s essential to feel comfortable and confident during the photo session. If you feel awkward or tense, it will show in the final image. Trust your photographer to guide you through the process and help you relax in front of the camera.

At Kat Squibb Portraits, we take the time to make sure you feel at ease, ensuring that your headshot is a true reflection of your authentic self. When you’re comfortable, your confidence shines through—and that’s what makes a headshot stand out.

8. Work with a Professional Photographer

While smartphone selfies might work for casual social media posts, they simply can’t compete with a professionally taken headshot. A professional photographer brings not only high-quality equipment but also the expertise in lighting, posing, and composition needed to create a polished, professional image.

At Kat Squibb Portraits, we specialize in headshots that help you stand out. From guiding you through wardrobe choices to finding the perfect pose and expression, we ensure your headshot is a powerful reflection of your personal brand.

Conclusion: Your Headshot, Your Brand

Your headshot is a key element of your personal brand, so it’s worth taking the time to get it right. By considering your brand message, dressing appropriately, posing confidently, and working with a professional photographer, you can create a headshot that not only looks great but also reflects who you are and what you stand for.

Ready to update your headshot and take your personal brand to the next level? Contact Kat Squibb Portraits today to schedule your session and let us help you capture the perfect image that truly reflects you.