Choosing Your Ideal Headshot Photographer

Let’s be honest. Finding the right headshot photographer can feel like swiping through a dating app - there are a lot of smiles, a lot of faces too, and often not much substance. Very "professional", but nothing that excites!

But your headshot isn’t just another photo. It’s the first impression, the conversation starter, the digital handshake that introduces you before you say a word. So how do you choose someone who can capture not just your face, but your presence?

Here’s what to look for when choosing your ideal headshot photographer (and a few red flags to dodge along the way):

1. Do They Actually Get You?

It’s not about finding someone with the fanciest kit or the trendiest studio. You want a photographer that you can connect with, who listens, asks questions, and takes the time to understand who you are and what your brand is all about.

If they launch straight into a shot list without so much as a “tell me about your work”, run!

2. Natural Over Notable

We want to capture photos where you feel relaxed enough to actually be yourself in front of the camera. Look for photographers who capture real expressions and not just stock photo smiles.

Top tip: scroll through their portfolio. Do the people look like they’re holding their breath or like they just cracked up laughing at a bad joke? That tells you everything.

3. Do They Guide Without Bossing You Around?

You’re not expected to know your angles or how to “look confident but approachable”. That’s their job. A great photographer will give you clear, simple direction without making you feel like you’re in a school photo line.

They’ll tweak, guide, and hype you up without turning the session into a military drill.

4. Look Beyond the Lens

A strong headshot photographer will think about how your images will be used. LinkedIn banner? Speaker bio? Website hero image? Different crops need different compositions. If they’re just giving you a single square crop and sending you on your way then it’s a missed opportunity to be showcasing your new photos elsewhere!

Your images should work as hard as you do.

5. Read the Room

Do they have a space that puts you at ease? Are they open to shooting on location if that suits your brand better? Comfort leads to confidence, and confidence is everything when it comes to looking like the pro you are.

Bonus: The Vibe Test

This one’s simple. Do they make you feel like the main character - or just another booking? You deserve someone who brings good energy, knows their craft, and actually gives a damn about your story. You want someone who you feel is taking awesome brand visuals off your plate so that you can focus on the other aspects of running your business.

Because this isn’t just about taking a headshot. It’s about creating a visual presence that helps you own your space.

Your Photographer Should Help You Feel Like You

If you leave a shoot feeling like you’ve just survived a dentist appointment, something’s gone wrong.

The right photographer will make you feel seen, heard, and quietly powerful in your own skin.

So take your time, ask questions, and trust your gut.

And hey, if you want someone who’s as good at making you laugh as they are at capturing your best side, you know where to find me.