7 Key Differences Between Professional Headshots and Portraits

I have special techniques I use for my folically challenged clients. A professional headshot is a head-and-shoulders image that shows you at your best, with an amazing expression, great lighting, and a modern, clean look. Leverage professional headshots to increase visibility, leads, and reach. Business headshots are vital branding tools for a successful business.

Creativity is one of the best headshot photography tips we can give. Your client may have asked for a specific type of shot, but you can still take other compositions – they make love your creative choices. Professional Headshots and Portraits photos can open doors and put you in the spotlight, especially if you plan on a career in the performing arts. We offer professional-quality black and white and color headshots to accommodate a variety of needs.

A business owner may elect to have a studio headshot taken then have a variety of portraits taken at their place of business. These shots are sometimes referred to as environmental portraits. Or they may want a variety of poses in the studio that tell the story of who they are. Now that you see what sets these types of photos apart, get ready to handle them both. Either way, develop your skills and show your clients that you know what you’re doing. The elements above are at the heart of what makes portraits and headshots different.

Our in-house professional retouchers will clean up the images and we’ll send you a digital download link directly to your inbox. The ideal location is either a studio or somewhere with a simple background that complements the subject without overpowering it. Good posing is essential to give the head and shoulders the best possible structure as they face forward or at a slight angle. Lighting can be soft, strong, natural, or anything else that benefits the photographer’s vision.

From a professional standpoint, a person might hire a professional photographer to conduct a portrait session, and there are many types of sessions. As you can see from the behind-the-scenes shot below, I’ve asked my subject to turn her body 45 degrees from the camera. (She’s still looking straight into the lens, though!) I’ve added a large light in front , and I’m using a reflector below her face to reduce harsh shadows.