Why You Need Professional Headshots

You might wonder if professional photography is worth the expense; whether you are creating your first website or an established business updating your online presence, the cost of professional photography may cause you to think you might be able to get by without it… or pull out that cellphone and take some pictures yourself right? … Wrong!  

Every business, regardless of industry, can benefit from a professional headshot. High-quality photography highlighting the individuals behind the business will help you to build your brand and increase your sales. Professional photography is a good choice when it comes to business costs that are worth it.  

There are probably a thousand reasons you don’t want your headshot taken. We get that people don’t like being photographed, but it doesn’t have to be unpleasant. A professional who is experienced in the field will ensure a great shot and an enjoyable experience for everyone. Professionals can help you with the process.

What are the top 10 reasons you should hire a professional photographer for your headshot?

1. Professionalism. It gives you credibility, professionalism, and authority. Potential clients, investors, and collaborators who find your profile online on LinkedIn, your website, or Facebook are more likely to take you seriously.
2. First Impressions. Did you know people judge us within 11 seconds of our first meeting? Although this may seem absurd, it is a good idea to make the most of the 11 seconds you have before being judged. It’s true; we judge books by their covers. People love to work with others, so present them with your best self.
3. Get to Know You! Good headshots will help customers get to know you. A great smile can make a big difference. If a professional photographer is not possible, some may turn to stock photos may be an option. This is not the best way for your business to be showcased. Why? They aren’t photos of you or your company! People visit your website to get to know you. Stock photos won’t help them achieve that goal – they can give people a false impression about what you have to say. Showing potential customers photos of your company, your employees, and your products is the best way for them to get to know you.
4. Confidence. A great headshot can help you feel professional and confident when speaking with potential clients or business partners. It is amazing how confident you can feel after a session. Additionally, Our retouching services can make personalized adjustments at your request.
5. Stand out from the rest. LinkedIn profile photos will make you stand out from the rest. You’d be surprised how many people have taken a picture of themselves from a wedding with their arms around an ex. It’s usually a cropped, grainy photo. This is not a great way to showcase who you are and what you care about. It’s also surprising to us how many people don’t have a LinkedIn photo. It is part of your online introduction. Make it memorable!
6. Visual Reminder How often have you attended a function where you met someone you want to do business with? A professional, current, and clean headshot can help someone remember you and connect with you on LinkedIn.
7. Consistency. Branding your image is a hot topic. Although branding is often thought of as something that applies only to large companies, it can also be applied to individuals. It happens all the time; a person works for a large corporation but doesn’t have professional headshots. Many are taken at weddings with no profile shots, others against a wall with phones and shadows. Now imagine looking at a company profile or website and seeing all the employees with professional headshots. This is an essential aspect of a company’s image. Your company is made up of individuals, and those individuals represent your company. Consistency in this area can significantly improve a company’s image.
8. Images can help you get found on the web. Search engine optimization (or SEO) is a term that describes the process of optimizing your website to rank higher in search engines. Images are one of the most important elements in SEO. Optimized images can make your website more visible in search results, such as Google Images. They also help you rank higher in the overall search results. These photos can be used to engage customers, keep them on your website longer, and encourage them to choose you instead of a competitor.
9. Professional photos are versatile assets. Content is king when it comes to marketing your company online. This has been true for some time now. Many people don’t know that photos are content and can be powerful, versatile forms of content. Photos can make your website more attractive online. You can use them to promote your brand on social media such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn, or Google My Business. You can also feature them in articles and blog posts. The possibilities are endless. Photos can also be used offline in promotional materials and brochures. Professional photography can provide you with valuable and new ammunition to help enhance your marketing efforts.
10. One Picture Is Worth a Thousand Words   This is something you’ve likely heard before. Except today, pictures are worth at least a thousand words, and maybe more. You can show your customers and clients what you have to say rather than telling them. People want to be able to see the product before they make a purchase. This is possible thanks to the internet, which makes it easier for customers to see your products and services in person.   

An experienced professional headshot photographer can advise on wardrobe, location, and make-up. This will help you bring out your best self. While iPhones and android devices may be getting better, there’s no substitute for understanding how to position the subject in the right light or tapping into your best personality.

A skilled photographer can retouch your photos so that you look your best while retaining your identity. A professional photo retoucher can remove flyaway hairs, fix blemishes and smoothen skin. They can even lose help shave off 10 pounds (digital, of course!) While we all wish to get rid of those wrinkles, let’s face it, those lines are part of our lives. Don’t let your lines go if you are a professional woman over 45. It doesn’t look natural. Second, don’t let it stop you from owning your lines. We can and will soften them slightly.

Professional photographers should inquire about your industry and professional goals. Your specific goals should be met during the photography session. If you’re a house painter, taking a headshot with a tie and coat doesn’t make sense. However, if you meet large corporations for commercial work, you may find some middle ground with a shirt and no tie. Did you know that color can communicate with potential customers by creating a feeling of power or accessibility? The color you choose has a subliminal effect on your viewer. These subtle nuances can have a significant impact on how you are perceived. For example, we can make your executives more approachable by having them wear soft blue tones instead of bold colors like red.

Professional headshots are priceless. This is your brand’s first introduction. Make it memorable. Contact us to inquire about professional headshot sessions. We’d love to make it enjoyable and provide you with a picture you can be proud of.