01. Create a Relaxed Environment
The key to capturing natural and confident headshots starts with setting the right tone in the environment. A formal studio setting can sometimes make people feel tense or uneasy. To counter this, consider hosting the photo session in a familiar space like your office. Familiar surroundings help people feel more at ease, which translates to more genuine, relaxed expressions in their photos.
Additionally, ensure that the environment is welcoming and free from distractions. Give your team some time to adjust to the setting and feel comfortable before the photographer starts taking pictures. A calm and informal atmosphere helps everyone settle in and produces more confident, authentic portraits.
Comfort begins with a relaxed, known environment, which helps bring out natural expressions.
02. Provide Clear Expectations
Before the photo session, offer clear guidance to your team on what to expect. Many people feel anxious about being photographed, especially if they are unsure about how the session will go. Providing details, such as how long it will take, the style of photography, and suggestions on what to wear, will help ease any apprehension.
Letting your team know what’s expected allows them to feel more prepared and confident. When they know the goals of the session and how it aligns with the company’s brand, they can approach the process with a clearer mindset, leading to more successful and professional headshots.
Preparing your team with what to expect and wear helps them feel more confident.
03. Work with a Friendly Photographer
The photographer’s demeanor plays a critical role in helping people feel comfortable. A skilled photographer who engages with subjects in a friendly and approachable manner can make all the difference. They should offer clear instructions and encouragement, helping your team relax and feel confident in front of the camera.
The photographer should also provide feedback throughout the session, they are doing well or adjusting their pose as needed. This interaction builds confidence and makes the experience more enjoyable. When team members feel supported and guided, it’s easier for them to express natural, authentic smiles and body language.
04. Encourage Natural Posing
One of the most important elements of a great headshot is a natural and relaxed posture. Stiff, overly posed positions can make people appear uncomfortable or tense, which is reflected in their expression. Encourage your team to stand or sit in positions that feel natural to them, while the photographer provides light guidance on how to adjust for the camera.
A good photographer will suggest slight tweaks to posture or angles that highlight the individual’s best features without making them feel awkward. For example, asking someone to tilt their head slightly or relax their shoulders can make a big difference in how comfortable they appear. The goal is to capture confident, approachable expressions that align with your company’s professional image.
Having options allows your team to relax into the session and ensures the best photo is captured.
05. Take Multiple Shots
Relying on just one or two shots per person can limit the chances of capturing the best, most confident version of your team. Encourage the photographer to take several shots of each individual, giving them the opportunity to try different expressions or poses. Sometimes, the first photo isn’t the best, and offering multiple tries allows for a more relaxed and natural final image.
Taking a variety of shots also helps in capturing different angles or expressions, ensuring you get a photo that truly represents the individual’s personality. It’s easier to find the perfect headshot when there are multiple options to choose from, allowing you to select the one that best fits your company’s brand and professional tone.
