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Headshots aren't just for members of the C-suite anymore. Showcase your professionalism, both inside and out, with a winning professional photo.  

The saying “never judge a book by its cover,” while charming, isn’t entirely plausible in the real world. The reality is that we are all judged (or perceived) by the way we look. We have a short amount of time to make a good first impression, particularly when it comes to professional situations: job interviews, LinkedIn, making connections, networking, acting jobs, etc.

That’s why it’s incredibly important to always appear professional, both in-person and online. And while most career-driven people understand the importance of business professional attire in-person, far too many fail to exude that same professionalism online — the very first place (or next place) most professional contacts will see you!

Headshots are a fundamental way to market yourself professionally both online and within your company. Here are some ways to pose during your headshots. 

Give Facial Expressions
You want to connect with people, so you can’t really stare blankly into the camera. You will need to smile, half-smile, give an open mouth smile, and even fake laugh. You can practice these poses in a mirror and see what suits you the best.

You can also try neutral expressions to see if that creates a pleasant picture. Just be careful to not look upset or mad. 

Use Your Eyes
No matter what you try to convey, it isn’t complete unless you show it with your eyes. Even when smiling with your eyes, this will add a sentimental impact in photos. Make sure the viewer can feel what you felt when you were posing for the picture

Keep Your Posture Straight
In headshots, you might have to pose standing up, sitting on chairs, and even with walls. So you can’t slouch or look tired, keep your posture straight and look ahead if needed. It will also enhance your curves, make you feel and look confident.

Adjust Your Chin
Sometimes a close-up headshot is a must-have. But it can make your face look like you have a double chin if you’re not too careful. If this is an issue, try moving your chin out, then down slightly to stretch out your neck. Practice this by trying different poses and angles with your chin while looking in the mirror. Watch your neck to see what position you like and try to remember what that feels like so you can recreate it during your headshot. 

An additional tip is to put your tongue on the upper side of your mouth. It will make your jawline look sharp, and it is best when clicking a side pose.

Relax Your Body
You want to look stiff or tense. Try to feel comfortable and relaxed. Relax your arms and hands to make it look like you are comfortable. Don’t fold them unless asked. Practice hand placement, as well.

You can also use your hand as an accessory in close up headshots. Before the photo-shoot watch how you can practice the poses, use a mirror and see where to place your hands in the pictures

Avoid Straight To Camera Poses
Try to rotate your shoulders away from the camera and then turn your head back toward the lens. Sometime adding a slight lean to your pose can help so much with flattering angles.  

Use can also use your hands and arms to pose, lean into the wall, or even move your legs. It will show how confident and relaxed you are.

••• Experiment with different poses and expressions in the mirror and see what suits you the best.