In today’s visually-driven world, a professional headshot is becoming more important for an increasingly broad range of career paths. Headshots for actors and models have been essential for decades, but business professionals are also lining up to show potential employers and colleagues who they are - beyond their name and resume. There’s a misconception about how much (or how little) of your personality should come through in a professional headshot, though. The truth is, the right photographers in Vegas can showcase a unique side of your personality while still maintaining a professional presence.
The Role of Professional Headshots
As humans, we crave authenticity from our peers. The more genuine we perceive people to be, the more likable and trustworthy they become in our minds. Of course, a high-quality corporate headshot isn’t an instant ticket to your next job or promotion, but images showing your face can help to build the right connections to advance your career.
On Linkedin, a photo is practically a prerequisite to digital networking. Whether you’re posting your thoughts and opinions about recent developments in your industry, or congratulating a colleague on a new position, others expect to be able to see a photo of you while they read your insight. The rise of remote work has also increased use of tools like Slack, where an image representing you appears next to every image you send. If you don’t upload your own photo, you risk seeming closed-off. But, the right photo can convey professionalism, confidence, and friendliness - key qualities for building relationships with peers and superiors.
Breaking the Mold: Headshots with Personality
Traditionally, business headshots have often been solely functional. If the goal was to show a potential employer, client, or colleague who you are before meeting you, the image would do just that - and not much more. Today, we have a deeper understanding of the importance of your personal brand. Leaving the right impression, whether in-person, on your Linkedin profile, or in a biography introducing you as the speaker at a conference, can leave significant impressions on your audience about your personality.
There are many different elements that photographers in Vegas can play with to showcase your unique character traits and values in your headshot. I’ve included a few examples below.
1. Expression
From a bright, shining smile to a thoughtful gaze, the look on your face tells a story. A strong Las Vegas photographer who understands your goals for your headshot will help you to feel comfortable exploring different expressions.
2. Background
Most frequently, headshots feature neutral backgrounds to ensure that the eye’s attention is directed toward the person in the photo. There are interesting backgrounds that still come across as professional, though, and your choice can demonstrate interesting character traits or interests.
3. Pose
If you conjure up a “superhero pose” in your head, we would bet that you’re imagining someone with their hands in fists on their hips, their feet in a wide stance with legs straight, and their gaze upward and to the side. We’re not suggesting that you do this in your next photoshoot (unless you’re going for a very, very specific look!) but there is a strong correlation between someone’s stance and the image they project. A strong pose can convey leadership qualities, and if you’re considering new headshots to support your candidacy for a promotion, we’ll be sure to prioritize those traits when we discuss how to position your body.
We’re the Right Photographers in Vegas to Capture Your Personality
If you’re looking for a headshot that goes beyond “boring,” you’re in the right place. Reach out today to discuss your goals and ideas for your photoshoot! We can’t wait to capture an image that makes you proud to show off.