Headshot Poses

Great headshots have a few key components, the most important being headshot poses.  You first need to understand your personal style and what kind of headshot are you trying to create?  Business professional?  Casual?  Glamours?  All these details play a part in the final result of your final headshot.

The second key component that goes into a great headshot is the client outfit.  I personally love monochromatic tones – keeping color tone close together and not contrasting too much. The colors combinations the client wears and how it relates to their personal color palate is important.  If they have lighter hair, they might want to keep colors mid to light.  If they have darker hair, mid to dark colors might suit the photoshoot better.  See what the client vision is and play around with this to see what you are liking best.

Okay, I’m going to analyze a recent headshot session I had of a young blonde woman.  The image below shows how much her outfit played a role in the final look of her images.  My personal favorite is #4, because I feel the selection is stylish and goes with her color palate well.  She’s a cool blonde and by choosing the blue blazer, the colors stay in the cool zone and are a mid-tone since she’s has lighter coloring.  It looks professional and sets a business tone.

Comparing these images below, I personally feel black can be too dark for blondes.  It can look too heavy.  Take the time to select a few outfits and help your client choose which outfit will look best on them.

Lastly, posing for your headshots.  Posing makes a great portrait.  I prefer simple and classic looks that are flattering to my client.  Making the client feel relaxed and natural will help their personality come out so that can be seen in your final image.

Below, I’ve compiled some of my favorite inspiration photos of women’s & men’s outfits and posing ideas.  I love neutrals, as I think they are sophisticated and timeless.

Jenny is Columbus, Ohio‘s premium headshot photographer.  If you are looking for a stylish modern approach to your headshots, please contact me to chat about booking a photoshoot.