As a corporate headshot photographer I’m often asked if I have any tips for a successful office headshot session, especially when there’s going to be a lot of people to shoot. And I’m always pleased to be asked, because it means the client is as invested as I am in getting the best possible photos.
So let’s get started! Here’s some invaluable tips for a successful headshot session, that I’ve picked up over the years, presented in no particular order…
Do you need a particular format/pose/number of images etc?
It’s no problem to be specific about what you need. For example, do you need a vertical or horizontal format, or will you need both? Do you prefer the men to wear a buttoned-up suit jacket and tie? Is there a pose you prefer, such as at an angle or straight on, or do you want a range of poses for each person? Would you like each person to choose the final images at the session or are you happy to go with my choice?
I’ll have a chat with you before the session to help narrow down the style of the shoot, and if you have any existing images you’d like to match that can be helpful too.
Give the session enough time.
Every session is different, but ideally I’d like up to ten minutes with each person if possible. Not everyone needs it, but it’s nice to have the luxury of time if it makes for a better photo. Although it’s certainly possible to shoot 30 headshots in 90 minutes, the chances of people being unhappy with the final shot rise dramatically. Taking just a bit more care pays dividends in the quality of the final image.
For example, people can feel awkward when they arrive, but relax into it once we’ve taken a few shots; sometimes they’d like to try a few poses to find the one they’re most comfortable with, such as glasses on then glasses off; then it’s great to go through the photos with them on my laptop before they leave, so they can choose their favourites; and I may need a bit of extra time to re-shoot if they don’t like any of the first batch.
Consider a discrete location.
People can feel self-conscious with an audience, so try to avoid choosing a location in full view of fellow office staff, or with a lot of through-traffic. Also, try to ensure there’s a space for people to wait that isn’t in view of the shooting location, so that those waiting their turn aren’t watching the person before them.
Remind everyone before the session.
Once you’ve booked me in let everyone involved know where and when the shoot will be happening, and what time they need to attend. Then remind them again at least the day before, but if it’s been a few weeks since booking it doesn’t hurt to send another reminder the week before too.
Often people will have forgotten between the original email and the reminder, or have come up with an excuse to avoid it! Sending reminders can help avoid no-shows on the day, and gives people time to pick out their best outfit, get a haircut, and bring the right makeup on the day.
Include time for setting up and packing up.
Before the shoot gets started I’ll need 30-45 minutes to recce the chosen location, set up lighting (and background if needed), and do test shots with someone to ensure it all looks good for you. I’ll also need about 15 minutes at the end to put everything away. So for example a three hour booking will have time for just over two hours of shooting. And for long sessions it’s helpful to schedule 5 minutes with no appointments every so often for catching up if we’re behind, fitting in latecomers, or just a comfort break for yours truly.
Consider the weather and the timing for outdoor sessions.
Natural light headshots look fantastic, and I love the depth that outdoor locations can bring to the background of the shot. But we’ll need to consider the weather and the effect of changing light conditions during long sessions.
Spring and summer are great for outdoor headshots, but direct sunlight can make people squint, even if it’s behind them, and can also create harsh shadows, especially between 11am and 2pm when it’s directly overhead. So on sunny days it’s best to shoot in the shade.
To avoid hair blowing in the wind it’s helpful to shoot in a sheltered location, and if it starts to rain the shoot usually needs to stop or relocate unless we’re under cover. If we do keep shooting the photos may look and feel quite different to the ones shot in better weather.. Similarly, on long outdoor shoots the quality and strength of the light can change a fair bit from one person to the next.
I don’t mind what people wear – but you might.
It doesn’t matter to me what people wear, so long as they’re comfortable. But if you want the images to match a certain aesthetic, or fit in with other headshots you already have, remember to discuss that with everyone in advance.
I don’t have particular ‘no-no’s but I recommend against all-black outfits if possible as some black materials can absorb so much light that the finished photo looks like a shapeless pool of black with a face on top, which can be distracting.
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