A strong headshot might look effortless, but there’s usually a bit of thought behind it. Not overthinking. Not stress. Just a few intentional choices that help everything come together more naturally on the day of the session.
The goal isn’t to “get through it.” It’s to walk away with images that feel like you and that you’ll actually want to use. A little preparation goes a long way.
#1: Start with a Conversation
Before anything else, talk to your photographer.
A quick call or meeting should be part of the process. This is where you share who you are, what you do, and what you want your headshot to say about you. Confident? Approachable? Polished? Creative?
Bring examples. Share photos you like (and don’t like). The more context you give, the easier it is to create something that actually feels like you.
#2: Plan the Details Ahead
Good headshots don’t start on the day of the session. Think through grooming, haircuts, and facial hair in advance. Give yourself a few days for everything to settle so you still look like yourself.
Bring a couple of clothing options that feel clean, simple, and aligned with how you want to present yourself. Small details, but they show.
#3: Take Care of Yourself (It Shows on Camera)
What you do a few days before the session matters.
Hydrate. Get rest. Go easy on anything that might leave you looking tired or puffy. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s showing up feeling like yourself at your best.
#4: Keep It Natural
Makeup, styling, overall look, keep it aligned with you. If you’re comfortable doing your own makeup, great. If not, working with a professional can help keep things natural and camera-friendly.
Same idea for everything else: nothing too new, nothing that doesn’t feel like you.
#5: Relax, You Don’t Have to “Know What to Do”
You don’t need to be good in front of a camera. You don’t need to have poses ready.
A good session is guided. You’ll be directed, adjusted, and helped through it. The best results usually come when you stop trying to “get it right” and just settle into the moment.
The Goal Is Simple
Not perfect. Not overly polished. Just clear, natural, and true to you. If you’re planning a headshot session, a little preparation makes a big difference.
Visit our galleries and contact us to plan a session that reflects who you are and how you want to show up.
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Co-owner of Headshots NYC, Deutsch Photography & Gotham Family Photos. Lover of images & the stories they tell. Fanatic about words, numbers & patterns. Entrepreneur & adventurer w/keen wanderlust. Life/love/business partner of my husband, photographer Brett Deutsch. Eternal love affair with NYC, where I landed by way of GA, TX & CA.
