Tips and tricks to look your best for your next portrait session
Often times, simply choosing to have new portraits made can be a difficult undertaking. After all, we’re our own worst critics so having all of the attention on us — and worse yet, our face — doesn’t always sound like the definition of a good time. However, having a fresh profile photo or headshot can make a huge difference in how you’re perceived in the business world.
Portraits represent your personal brand, so putting your best face forward is critical when planning a with a potential employer and client. Just about everyone today has a smart phone and can do a little research before that meeting. Finding an outdated profile photo shows that appearances aren’t important to you. On the other hand, a polished headshot shows that you pay attention to detail in all facets of your career or business.
Top 5 reasons to update your profile photo
1. Build trust and let potential clients get an idea of who you are before your next meeting
2. Showing your face adds integrity to your professional image
3. You’re a recent college grad and need a new photo suitable to share with potential employers
4. You’re in a career transition or seeking to land your dream job
5. You have a new haircut/color and want your image to reflect your new look
What to wear?
At Anthologie, we aim to capture your personality with your portrait so it’s important for you to dress in a manner that speaks to who you are and your intended career path. Remember, with business photography, you want to dress for the job you want, not necessarily the job you already have. Think about the image you want to project to others and dress accordingly.
• Jackets and coats that are crisp and fitted photograph the best
• Dressing in layers is always a great option for multiple looks
• Solid colors rather than busy patterns add an air of sophistication
• Dark and neutral colors are great for outerwear
• Avoid fluorescent colors or solid white with shirts
• Guys, bring a tie. Ladies, add a scarf. You can always take it off if it’s too formal.
• What’s slimming? Simple, solids, darks, vertical lines and single-breasted suits
It may sound silly, but it’s not a bad idea to practice your smile in a mirror before your session. You may find that your “posed smile” makes you look less approachable. Don’t worry, Anthologie photographer Dan Iverson is a pro at making you relaxed and at ease being yourself in front of the camera.
Choose clothing that matches your personality. Some times a colorful shirt can work to let people know a bit more about you without saying a word.
Dressing in layers provides options for a formal look with a jacket to a more relaxed feel with a simple dress shirt and no tie.
