Professional photos send a message about you that’s beyond your bio. So, how can you make sure you’re communicating the best snapshot of yourself? This simple guide explains what to do in the days and hours before—and during—your photo shoot.
Like all important messages, your professional photos need careful preparation. Make no mistake about it, small details can make a big difference to the outcome.
As renowned portrait-photographer, Annie Leibovitz, says, 'A very subtle difference can make the picture or not.' We agree! So, here's our guide for picture-perfect corporate shots:
In the days before...
Get your hair cut four or five days before your photo shoot.
Do your hair colour, eyebrows and facials well in advance.
Know your 'best side'! Everyone has one. Not sure of yours? Now's the time to find out so you can tell the photographer.
Choose your clothing. Avoid patterns and stripes as these create a noisy rippling effect. Also, select contrasting colours—a light shirt or top with a dark jacket—they come up better in black and white.
For radiant skin, hydrate days before the shoot. Also, avoid alcohol, as it'll make your skin look puffy.
In the hours before...
If you wear glasses, you’ll want shots with them on and shots with them off. Remember to take them off a couple of hours before the shoot. It’ll get rid of red marks on your nose for ‘glasses-off’ shots.
Pack (but hang, don’t fold) your selected outfit, don’t wear it on the day. That way, your well-pressed clothes stay spotless and wrinkle-free for the shoot.
Ladies, if a make-up artist will be present, trust the expert and don’t put any make-up on. If not, only do your own if you’re confident it’ll look good photographed. Otherwise, it might be best to book a professional.
Men, this is your time to shine, not your skin’s. Banish shiny-skin by packing and using colourless and translucent blotting or primer powder for a natural look. Keep applying as needed throughout the shoot.
Don’t forget to bring a brush or comb for smooth and neat-looking hair.
Finally, allow plenty of time to travel to the shoot so that you arrive calm, fresh and relaxed!
Under the spotlight...
Try to get a range of professional-looking photos with varying degrees of relaxation. Have some with your jacket on, your jacket off and, for the guys, tie-on and tie-off.
Same goes for your facial expression. Get some shots of you laughing, some smiling gently and some with a more neutral expression.
Be conscious of crossing your arms too. It can look uncomfortable and defensive—plus, it wrinkles your clothes. Position yourself as open, friendly and approachable by keeping hands out of the way.
If you’re tall, make sure the photographer isn’t ‘shooting upwards’. It’s unflattering and can emphasise double chins. Ask the photographer to stand on a stool to get the right angle.
Remember, picture-perfect shots take preparation in the days and hours before the photoshoot. Keep this guide on hand and you’re guaranteed shots that capture you at your absolute best.
About Victoria
Victoria believes that great communication has the power to change the world. She's passionate about helping organisations to lift their profiles, inspire action and achieve remarkable results by crafting and delivering their stories and messages in a clear, compelling and persuasive way. If you've got a question about how to produce high-quality communication plans or content, you can contact Victoria here or connect with her on LinkedIn.