We’ve all heard that a picture is worth a thousand words.
If you are a professional and don't have a current headshot, read on!
When it comes to investing in yourself professionally, what do you think of first? Certifications and further education? Perhaps updating your wardrobe?
While professional development, and wardrobe are undoubtedly valuable investments, a current, professional headshot, is a quick way to level up your professional game. In this article, we’ll explore reasons why you should make this investment in yourself.
1. Professional Tools - Online First Impressions
Online meetings are here to stay. Job interviews, client meetings, team collaboration and education are all taking place virtually. Platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Skype, and Google Meet display your account photo when your camera is off. Take advantage of this opportunity to make a great first impression. Beefing up your Account Profile with your name, and a professional photo, speaks volumes about your preparedness and professionalism.
2. Building Credibility
A picture is worth a thousand words. Having a professional online photo is taking control of your professional brand. Prospective employers and customers will search for you online. What does a search of your name reveal? If you’ve been intentional about building your brand including a professional photo, you are in control of that first visual impression. If you’re a solopreneur, entrepreneur or have a bio on your employer's website, a professional headshot lends credibility to you, the brand, product, or service.
3. LinkedIn
LinkedIn is the largest professional online network, often serving as a touchpoint between you and potential employers or customers. Building your network is an investment in your professional future, and having the right photo is key. Professionals want to see who they’re connecting and networking with. If you are using a photo from a friend’s wedding, or a photo that is more than 10 years old, consider this: In a recent survey conducted by Wynne Hires, 73% of professionals believe that your LinkedIn photo should be a professional photo taken within 3 years.
4. Presenting Confidence & Competence
Investing in a professional headshot shouldn’t be considered a luxury; it's a professional tool in your toolbox that should be updated throughout your career. While it might be tempting to snap a quick selfie or rely on a friend with a decent camera, we say “save the selfies for Facebook”. For your professional image, nothing beats the expertise of a trained photographer.
Here's why it matters:
Photographers' Expertise is Capturing the Essence of YOU!
Professional photographers have the knowledge and experience to capture you in the best possible light, both figuratively and literally. They excel at posing and framing, ensuring your headshots exude approachability, confidence and professionalism, leaving a positive lasting impression.
Pro Tips from a Photographer
Consider the following:
Research: Look at headshots of your colleagues or friends. If you like their headshot, ask for a referral to their photographer. Explore various photographers and their portfolios online. Choose a style that resonates with the image you’re looking to capture.
Outfits: Avoid busy patterns and stripes and stick to solid colors. Keep the outfits simple so that the attention is on your face, not your outfit. Bring several outfits, both casual and professional, so you can play with different looks. Generally, for the best contrast in a photo shoot, darker skin tones should avoid brown and black colors, and lighter skin tones should avoid whites and pastels. Select colors that make you feel bright and confident. Take time to manicure your nails as the photographer may want to include your hands in the photos. Keep jewelry simple. The focus should be on your face and upper body.
$ The Investment? Our research shows on average, the cost of a headshot in 2023 ranges from $100-$300, varying by the experience of the photographer, length of shoot, and number of outfit changes. All professional photographers should offer retouches of images to give you the most polished look you can feel proud to share.
Location: Think about the setting you desire – studio, outdoors, or your home office. Location matters, and your photographer should work with you in a variety of poses and settings that create the image you desire.
In conclusion, your professional image is all about first and lasting impressions.
Dressing for success today includes having the right online professional photo. Trust the experts to capture your essence. A professional headshot isn't just a photo; it's an investment, a reflection of your competence, confidence, and character. Seize the opportunity to invest in yourself and enjoy the impact of a professional headshot you can be proud of.
Say Cheese!
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