You’ve taken the first step and booked your appointment, but now the real question: How to look natural in your headshot? It’s easier than you think.
Most people hate how they look in photos, and headshots are the worst offenders. Stiff smiles. The “am I doing this right?” panic in your eyes. If you’ve ever looked at your last headshot and thought, “That doesn’t even look like me,” you’re not alone. Here’s how to finally look like yourself in a headshot, without faking it.
Why Do So Many People Look Unnatural in Headshots?
Tell me if this sounds familiar. From a young age, someone would point a camera at you and say, “SMILE!” You’d pull the corners of your mouth as close to your ears as you could and show every single tooth, and the result looked… well. I think it’s safe to say you don’t have those framed and hanging on your walls.
Most people show up thinking they have to “perform.” Add some classic nerves, and you’re left with a photo that feels forced. A natural headshot isn’t about acting, it’s about a great photo that shows the best version of the real you.
How Can I Relax in Front of the Camera?
If you feel like a deer in headlights the minute the lens points your way, that’s not your fault. A good photographer sets the tone, period. If you’re getting barked at to “smile more,” you’re in the wrong studio.
The best headshots happen when you and I are just in a moment together. Sound a little woo woo, right? Let me explain. You are not like any other person who walks through my studio door. That means I can’t interact with you like anyone else. That’s the key: interaction.
We’re going to talk, hang out, and I’ll create moments where you forget about the camera for a split second, that’s when we get the real expressions.
What Should I Do With My Face in a Headshot?
People overthink their face, mostly because nobody wants to look awkward. Your only job is to be present in the moment. I’ll guide you through everything. Because my camera is connected to my computer, we’ll review shots as we go—so you’ll know when we’ve got one that feels like you. No bad headshot leaves my studio.
You don’t need a “say cheese” face or a used-car-salesman grin. The best headshots are the ones where you aren’t trying so hard. Hands? No. This isn’t Uncle Rico from Napoleon Dynamite. If you see hands in your “headshot,” it’s not a headshot.
Wardrobe is the other thing people overthink. The right choice is usually simpler than you think. I’ve got a full guide for you “What To Wear For Professional Headshots“.
Should I Practice Posing Before My Headshot Session?
If a photographer tells you to practice before coming in for your headshots, that photographer is doing you a disservice. Unless you’re a model, posing is not something you need to know how to do. I know how to pose you, so you don’t need to worry about it.
Sometimes a pose feels a little awkward, and that’s completely normal. Around here, “if it feels stupid, it looks fantastic” is almost a studio motto. That’s because posing isn’t natural, but I promise, I’ve got you.
How Do I Get a Natural Smile in My Headshot?
You don’t try. Seriously. This isn’t your third grade class photo, and you don’t need to fake a smile. If I want a real one from you, I’ll make you laugh. Some of the best expressions happen during a genuine laugh, not the “hold it, hold it, now smile” pose.
A lot happens on your face as you react, and that’s where we get great headshots. When I make you laugh (yes. I said “when”) I will shoot through the entire laugh and we will see magic. Yes, there will be some funny faces in there, but also real, connected expressions (and laughing just makes you feel good!).
What Should I Tell My Photographer to Get the Best Results?
Be honest. If you’re anxious, say so. If you hated your last headshot, tell me why. The more you share, the better your session will go. I give plenty of feedback during your shoot, you’ll never just stand there guessing what to do.
Tips for Looking Like Yourself in Your Headshot
- Wear what actually feels like you, not what you think you “should” wear.
- Don’t worry about “posing.” I’ve got you.
- Trust the process, and if you don’t trust the photographer, find a new one.
You should look like you in your professional headshot. It should be engaging, confident, and real. When you book your session with me, that’s exactly what it will be.
