Tis the season for head shots here’s the my top 5 tips for headshots

1.Go pro. Spend the money. It’s worth it. Go to a professional, who is trained, understands lighting, and takes head shots for a living, not some friend who happens to have a decent camera who “sorta knows a little about photography.” Save those pictures for Instagram, and leave the head shots to the pros.

2. Go for personality over glamour. Make sure it looks like you. Chill with the airbrushing. Clients expect you to look just like your headshot, and will not be happy when you show up looking totally different, or 10 years older. It’s not about looking pretty; it’s about representing your type, age wrinkles included. It should look like you on your best day, showing your age, and who you are now.

3.It’s all about the eyes. It’s all about the eyes and what’s happening behind them. It’s your close-up, your moment. Your eyes should be perfectly in focus, alive, and energised, A good headshot photographer knows how to bring this out in you.

4.Clothing and props. I once saw a headshot of a guy with a bird on his head. Why? Because he wanted to stand out. Let’s not get crazy here. Keep it simple and classy, and follow the standard format. Professionalism gets you noticed, not desperation. Leave the “statement” shirts at home. A simple, solid colour shirt with a little texture that fits you well and matches your eyes should do the trick. No whites, and no graphics or anything you think might distract from your face. Bring a change of jacket, top or tie so that you can get some different looks.

5.On location vs. studio. Some photographers do both, because each offers a different look and feel. On location gives a very real look, perhaps behind your desk, in your boardroom or on your factory floor. Studio lighting tends to be a little more polished, with a more neutral backdrop. Both can be wonderful.