Headshots are portrait-style photographs typically used for resumes, professional publications, and marketing materials such as websites and social media profiles. Headshot photography aims to capture a professional, high-quality image that conveys the subject's desired brand profile.
1) What is headshot photography?
During a headshot photography session, the photographer will capture carefully framed professional images of the subject’s upper torso and head. The style and format of these photographs will be tailored to suit clients’ requirements and are often based on a subject’s profession or area of expertise.
For example, people working in an office-based industry may opt to wear formal business attire for their headshot photography sessions, while gardening experts might choose a more relaxed outdoor-themed format for theirs. Actors and singers often ask for precisely styled headshots that fit their brand image, especially as talent agencies may favor candidates who submit top-quality headshots along with their resumes.
2) What is the difference between a portrait and a headshot?
A headshot is a carefully posed image used for professional or promotional purposes, whereas a portrait can be more artistic and varied in terms of posing and staging.
Some professional headshots may also be classed as portraits, but not all portraits make suitable headshots. This is because when taking portrait photographs, the photographer and subject have much more flexibility in how images are staged. They can try different poses, movements, and facial expressions to create the desired effect.
In contrast, headshots typically feature only the head and upper torso, and the subject looks directly at the camera.
3) What makes a good headshot photo?
A good headshot photo draws the viewer's attention immediately to its subject’s face, particularly the eyes and facial expression. Subtle lighting can highlight the face, and a neutral background and muted wardrobe help emphasize this effect.
Before any headshot photography session, the photographer and client should discuss the goals and purpose of these images in depth. You may wish to convey a formal, businesslike demeanor, or prefer something more relaxed and approachable. Discussing your requirements first will help your photographer craft photos that embody your genuine self.
As a professional photography studio, we love the challenge of producing images that perfectly meet our clients’ professional needs. We believe that your headshots should reflect your brand — not ours — which is why no two headshot photoshoots are ever the same.
If you're looking for a team of experts to thoughtfully curate your first-ever headshot photography session or to give your existing headshot a digital refresh, don't hesitate to contact us. Let’s make your headshot dreams a reality!
Welcome to Studio S Portraits, a contemporary, magazine worthy photography studio run by Shruthi Venkatasubramanian. Based in West Boston, Massachusetts, Studio S Portraits provides high quality photography services, bringing a touch of artistic flair to headshots, personal branding, and portrait photography.
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