Your professional photo should portray you as a confident, established and approachable professional.
But does it?
Take a minute and open up another window tab in your browser. Check out your bio page on your Essentials website, your social media profiles, and your other online accounts. Is your photo giving your online viewers a professional and friendly impression of you? If not, don’t worry. Here are some tips to help you take a better professional headshot.
1. Go pro.
I always strongly recommend that attorneys get a photo taken by a professional photographer. Go one step further and find a photographer with experience shooting headshots. This is not the time to DIY. A picture shot by a team member in your office can seem sloppy when placed on your professionally designed website, while a professional photo will look crisp and render well across all devices.
2. Think outside.
Don’t feel like you have to get your photo taken in a studio against a dark blue cloth backdrop. This isn’t your fourth grade school photo! An outdoor backdrop can seem more friendly and approachable to prospective clients. Your professional photographer will know the best locations and times of day to get the best lighting.
3. Simple is best.
When in doubt, simplify. A simpler outfit or background will always look better than something more complex. A solid color wall or an open outdoor space makes a great backdrop. Solid colored outfits won’t distract from your confident smile.
4. When in doubt, ask!
If you have any questions, just ask! Ask your photographer for outfit, posing, or location suggestions. Ask your spouse, co-workers or friends for advice on what colors look best on you. And for any other questions, never hesitate to ask your IMS marketing team!
You’ve heard the saying: “A picture says a thousand words.” What is your headshot saying about you?