The list of things that go into any headshot session - not just corporate headshots - is almost endless. From clothing, grooming, lighting, location, poses and more. This article on corporate headshot photography will outline some of the do's and don'ts and guide you in the right direction when planning for one.
Do: Hire a Professional Corporate Headshot Photographer
A lot of people working in the corporate space, especially nowadays, will buy an entry level camera with a built in flash and basic kit lens, or rely on smartphone / AI technology to get the headshots their business needs. This is because it saves money that can be used for other projects.
Understandable.
However, the money you save might not outweigh the long term benefits of sharp and professional-looking photography on your website. Let's not forget that high spending clients will notice and pass judgement on your website and creative assets especially when assessing the people behind the brand. If your competitor isn't cutting corners and has professional headshots then it shows that they take themselves and the work they do seriously. People are your main resource in any organisation so having them appear at their best is quite vital to business success. If your most important resource is looking tired, dated, etc. then it's unlikely a client will think very highly of the work they are capable of producing.
It's about doing the right things even when nobody is looking.
Do: Try to be Consistent Where Possible
Usually, at Martin Creates, we recommend a consistent look across the board. Some brands pride themselves on individuality and having various looks depending on the department, person, ranking, etc. This is a commercial decision made by the client but if left to the professional headshot photographer, we recommend consistency. Some examples below showcase the importance of catering to the brand's personality. You can immediately see the difference in visual expression if we compare photography for a traditional estate agency that's been around for decades and a small tech startup based in a co-working space. Being adaptive is important and considering the tools you need to achieve each result is also crucial because you might have a fancy off camera lighting system that you're dying to use but that isn't always necessary.
Less can be More.
Don't: Rush
We've discussed the importance of consistency so one of the ways of achieving consistently successful results is to be patient when taking professional headshots.
Start with one subject; ideally someone who hasn't got a lot of work to do that day as you'll need more time to test and experiment locations, angles, lighting and potentially outfit(s) with them. Once content with the headshot taken from the first subject, the remaining subjects to have their headshots taken will be much easier. Once you commit, going back to redo them or do another batch is going to be a long process and potentially frustrate the client.
Don't: Overcomplicate Poses
There is a time and a place for experimental headshots which we will discuss in a separate blog post. This is usually reserved for unique personalities such as professions in the entertainment industry e.g. actors, singers, DJs and more.
Simple poses with confident postures and comfortable smiles are ultimately what is needed.
Eye contact isn't always necessary but usually at Martin Creates, when we are taking professional headshots for corporate clients or individuals, we request the subject look at the Sony logo on the camera body; just about the lens glass. This will mimic eye contact more naturally vs it being a staring contest.
I'd love to hear your Dos and Don'ts for corporate headshot photography. There are always things to learn and tweak in our workflows as professional photographers and potentially, something could be transferred to another category or work such as wedding photography or product photography.
Sometimes you just don't know until you know.
I am a professional freelance photographer and videographer based in London, UK. I started Martin Creates in order to help empower people and brands worldwide. One of the ways I do that is by publishing blogs with free information to help any creatives out there reading this. I welcome you to check out my work on this website as well as my newly launched site martincreatesweddings.com. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out.
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