5 Things to Expect When Working with a Professional Headshot Photographer

Investing in a professional headshot session is not just about getting a good picture; it's about collaborating with an expert who understands the right angles, lighting, and composition to help you look your best. Some of the benefits of working with a headshot photographer include their ability to create a comfortable environment and their expertise in lighting, framing, and post-production editing. Since a headshot session can sometimes be nerve-racking or a new experience, here are five things you can expect when working with Boswell Photography for your professional headshots. Let’s dive in!

1) Not Sure What to Wear? We’ve Got You Covered

When a new client books a headshot session, we ensure they are well-prepared. This includes sending out information before the shoot so each person knows what to expect. Boswell Photography has put together a handy PDF with helpful tips on how to prepare successfully for your headshot session. You can download your free copy here. Small details matter when preparing for your headshot session, such as brushing your teeth, removing any chewing gum, and applying a little lip balm to avoid cracked lips.

Additionally, avoid wearing all white to your session. A professional headshot is all about making your face stand out, so we want to avoid distractions like a bright white shirt or blouse. Similarly, steer clear of bright colors, especially neon, and any large or distracting patterns. Finally, if you wear makeup, apply it before your session. For those with dry skin, use a light moisturizer, and for those with oily skin, wash your face beforehand. Attention to these details goes a long way in ensuring you look your best and receive a high-quality headshot.

2) Posing 101

Many past clients have mentioned that their previous photographers put them in awkward poses or had their heads tilted in unflattering ways. While we can’t speak to how other photographers do their job, we understand that the last thing a client wants during their headshot session is to feel uncomfortable.

For each person, regardless of face shape, there is a comfortable and natural way to pose in front of the camera. Boswell Photography focuses on finding just the right angle for each client, ensuring they feel comfortable and confident throughout the process.

3) We Show You the Back of the Camera

We don’t want you guessing how your headshots are turning out, which is why we show you the images along the way. Often, other photographers will take the photos, edit them, and then deliver what they feel is best to the client. While that approach is common, we like to do things differently. We want you to see how your headshots are looking from the start and to make any necessary adjustments.

We show the back of the camera during your session, ask if you prefer one side of your face over the other, and get your feedback on the images. We never want a client to leave feeling anxious about whether their photos will turn out well. This brings us to our next point: we also provide a gallery for you to choose from.

You Choose, Not Us

After each session, Boswell Photography uploads your headshots to an online gallery, which we then send to you via email. This allows you to select the headshots you like best from the session. Often, clients choose more headshots than initially planned because they like so many! This process gives clients the chance to choose professional headshots they genuinely like and will use regularly. Once you select your favorites, it’s our job at Boswell Photography to edit the photos and deliver them promptly.

Photoshop is Our Friend

We use Photoshop to enhance your headshot, not to distort it. We pay attention to small details, such as removing blemishes, lightening the eyes, brightening or whitening the teeth, and removing stray hairs. Each photo is edited individually in Photoshop, rather than through bulk editing, which can miss fine details. We aim for your headshot to stand out, looking polished and clean. Clients receive their final headshot via a new gallery link where they can download the high-resolution version for use on websites, business pages, LinkedIn profiles, Facebook, and other social media platforms.

Conclusion

Choosing to invest in a professional headshot is a crucial step in making a strong impression in both personal and professional settings. At Boswell Photography, we are committed to making your experience smooth and enjoyable while delivering high-quality results. From preparation and posing to choosing and editing, we’re here to ensure every aspect of your headshot session exceeds your expectations. By understanding what to expect and how to prepare, you can walk into your session with confidence, knowing that you’ll leave with a standout image that truly represents you. We look forward to capturing your best self and helping you make a lasting impression.