Does your headshot capture the right image? Here are some ideas to help you. 
Not too long ago, someone told me I needed a better photo for my Twitter bio/avatar. I asked why and the response included something along the lines that my photo didn’t quite capture my spunk. Well, I still haven’t quite done this. But it did get me thinking.
How can a photo capture spunk or any other trait for that matter?
Michael Cavotta is doing just that. Two of my colleagues recently had new headshots taken by Michael and according to Laura Labovich, “Michael takes an ingenious approach to headshots…he incorporates your ‘words’ (the words that you feel define you) into your pictures.”
What you’ll find on Cavotta’s Facebook page are three words the person wants to convey as well as the photo. He also includes a little back history about the person he shoots too.
You don’t necessarily need to hire a professional photographer. However, using one can improve your results.
Bonus: When any site includes your name and information about you, it is great for building branding awareness and SEO!
Headshot tips
I’ve seen some really horrible shots recently and your professional image is just too important to overlook or destroy because you used a bad photo.
So if you haven’t given much thought to your headshot, maybe it is time that you did.
- Today’s headshots tend to be close – just your neck and head.
- Smile and look at the camera
- The photo should be only of you. Don’t crop someone else out.
- Choose your background carefully. You don’t want to get lost.
- Wear appropriate clothing
Use Photofeeler to evaluate your headshot. It’s a free service. “Photofeeler uses sophisticated algorithms, artificial intelligence, and battle-tested engineering that accounts for every contingency in order to boost the reliability of every human opinion we gather.”
The Power of Photos
And maybe this post will give you something to think about. See the 5 Kick-Ass Women This Mom Dressed Her Daughter As Instead of A Disney Princess.
Amelia Earhart – Jaime C. Moore – UpworthyPhotographer and mother Jaime Moore searched high and low for creative inspiration to take photos of her 5-year-old daughter Emma but found most of the ideas were how to dress your little girl like a Disney princess. It got her thinking about some real women for her daughter to look up to, whether that be a pilot, a doctor, or even an astronaut.
Have a great week and go get that new headshot taken!
Hannah Morgan speaks and writes about job search and career strategies. She founded CareerSherpa.net to educate professionals on how to maneuver through today’s job search process. Hannah was nominated as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Job Search and Careers and is a regular contributor to US News & World Report. She has been quoted by media outlets, including Forbes, USA Today, Money Magazine, Huffington Post, as well as many other publications. She is also author of The Infographic Resume and co-author of Social Networking for Business Success.
