Toronto Headshots: 10 Tips to Take Your Game To the Next Level

A good headshot captures the essence of who you are and what you represent. It's frequently used to form people's first impression of you. If a headshot is not done correctly, it can make people think less about who you are and more about how bad the photo is. That's why it's important to know what to look for in a good headshot. 

In this blog post, we share ten tips for taking stunning headshots that capture people's attention for the right reasons.

10 Tips From a Toronto Headshots Photographer

1. Know the Purpose of Your Headshot

They say a picture speaks a thousand words. That's why headshots are an essential part of any personal branding strategy. Headshots can tell your story and make you stand out from the crowd in no time! The purpose of a headshot is to show potential clients or employers what the person looks like and to give them a sense of the person's personality. A strong headshot should represent who you are, make you look good, and show the world what you want to be known for.

2. Get a Professional Photographer

A professional photographer will have the knowledge and experience with lighting, angles, and expressions to get the very best headshots out of their subjects to bring out their inner confidence and character. They will also be able to provide helpful tips and wardrobe advice to help you look your absolute best.

3. Know What You Want to Project

4. Strategically Find the Time and Location of Your Photoshoot

Some people might think that any location is fine for a headshot photo shoot, but the truth is that the place can play a significant role in the overall look of the photos. For example, if you want a more natural look for your headshots, shooting outdoors in a park or forest would be good. However, if you want a more polished look for your headshots, shooting in a studio with professional lighting would be better. The same goes for the time of day that the photos are taken. Shooting during the golden hour (the hour before sunset) can give pictures a warm, glowing look, while shooting during the blue hour (the hour after sunset) can provide photos with a cooler, more mysterious look.

5. Dress for Success

It is widely accepted that people who dress well in their professional headshot photos are perceived as more competent and successful than those who do not. Therefore, dressing for success in your professional headshot photos is likely to increase your chances of being seen in a positive light by potential employers, clients, or customers. Additionally, dressing for success conveys a sense of respect for yourself and the professional situation, which others can view favorably.

6. Find Your Best Angle

Different angles can accentuate different features, and some may be more flattering than others. It is important to experiment to find the one that makes you look the most approachable, competent, and confident. Secondly, the angle of your head can affect how others perceive you. For example, if you tilt your head too far to the side, you may look like you're trying to hide something. On the other hand, if you tilt your head too far forward, you may appear to be challenging the person you are taking the headshot with. Therefore, it is vital to find an angle that makes you look approachable and trustworthy.

7. Make Sure Your Eyes Are Looking Straight at the Camera

There are a few reasons for this. First, when your eyes are looking directly at the camera, it creates a connection with the viewer. Second, it can help to convey a sense of confidence and clarity in your message. Third, it can help ensure that your whole face is visible in the photo, essential for making an excellent first impression.

8. Have a Natural Smile

When you have a natural smile, it exudes confidence and professionalism. It shows that you are comfortable in your skin and proud of your accomplishments. This is the type of person that people want to work with. A fake or forced smile can come across as insincere.

9. Be Relaxed

There are a few reasons why it is important to be relaxed in professional headshot photos. First, if you are relaxed, you will look more natural and approachable in the photo. This can be important to making a good first impression with potential clients

10. Professional Editing

Professional editing can make a big difference in your photos' overall look and feel. A good editor will make your best features the focus of their editing and ensure that the image looks natural and polished. This may include color correction or retouching to make your photo look more professional. They can also remove any imperfections that might ruin a shot.

How Much Do Headshots Cost in Toronto?

The cost of a headshot will vary depending on factors, including the photographer's fees, the number of shots taken, any retouching or editing required, and the print or digital print format of the final image. According to Bark, average prices can range from $150 to $360 per session.

What Makes a Headshot Professional?

There is no definitive answer, as what makes a headshot professional is ultimately subjective. However, some factors can generally be considered when determining if a headshot is professional or not. These can include the overall composition and aesthetics of the image, the technical quality of the photograph, the posing and expressions of the subject, and the overall presentation of the headshot.

Do I Need to Smile in LinkedIn Headshots?

Some headshots are meant to capture a person's natural expression, in which case a smile may not be appropriate. However, in other cases, a headshot may be meant to show a person's personality, in which case a smile may be more appropriate. Ultimately, it is up to the photographer or the person being photographed to decide whether or not a smile is right.

What Should a Woman Wear for a Professional Headshot?

Both men and women should wear a professional outfit for a headshot that is appropriate for the job or industry. The important thing is to look clean, put-together, and professional.

Should You Wear Makeup in an Actors Headshot?

Some people believe that wearing makeup in a headshot can help create a more polished and professional look, while others believe it is more important to look natural and relaxed in a headshot. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide whether or not to wear makeup in a headshot.

Should I Shave for Professional Headshot?

It is not necessary to shave for a professional headshot, but it may be beneficial depending on the look you are going for. Shaving will be the best option if you want a clean-cut look. If you are going for a more rugged look, you may want to leave your facial hair. Ultimately, it is up to you, and what look you are trying to achieve.

Can I Have a Beard in a Professional Headshot?

The answer to this question depends on the profession you are in. If you are in a profession that requires a clean-shaven look, then it is advisable to not have a beard in your professional headshot. However, if you are in a profession where facial hair is not a issue, then you can have a beard in your professional headshot.

If You’re in Toronto and Want Better Headshots, Visit Our Headshot Page to Learn More.

Before you go head to head with the fierce competition, get a professional headshot.

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"When I moved from Ottawa to Toronto, I realized that I'm a big city girl and this was the place for me. I bring my heart to my work and to everyone I meet. I'd be honoured to help you capture your moments in time.”

- Stacey

Stacey Naglie is a Toronto-area photographer specializing in personal branding, headshot, lifestyle, and portrait photography that captures special moments and tells your story through beautiful and natural-looking photos.