Without a doubt, there are so many myths when it comes to business photography. I’m here to help bust them, uncover the truth and help you to discover what headshots are really all about.
At the very core level, headshots are about you. Yes, you. You are worth showing up with authentic confidence. A a professional headshot will be your first digital impression, you want it to count. Let’s find out if you are standing in your own way and blocking yourself from what could be a great headshot experience.
Are you standing in your own way?
Myth: A selfie is just as good as a professional headshot.
Truth: Selfies and casual or behind the scenes style of photos have a place and I’m very pro- sharing of selfies. I talk about this more on the podcast, PR with Purpose. Selfies are great in some instances but they lack the professional quality of a headshot. Two of the most common mistakes I see is someone standing in front of wall and hoping that no one notices. Some tough love, and I say this gently… If you’re using an unprofessional photo, prospective clients may not see you as a professional.
Myth: You need to be Photogenic to get a good Headshot
Truth: Being “photogenic” isn’t required—confidence and a relaxed atmosphere are more important. A skilled photographer will bring out your best angles and expressions. They can also use the camera, lens and lighting to ensure you look your best.
I’ve had clients share upsetting experiences where photographers blamed them for “not looking good” in headshots. This can hurt someone’s self-esteem. I’ve seen multiple clients struggle with this. I want to be very clear. If this has happened to you, it’s not your fault. Rather, it’s a sign the photographer needs to improve their skills. Please note – this is not about those who experience dysmorphia, that is a topic for another time.
Myth: Professional headshots are expensive
Truth: A professional headshot is an investment in you and your future self. Your headshot and personal brand and will influence first impressions of you.
Let’s imagine you book a headshot photo at one of my Headshot Days. They are less than $300 but for the sake of easy maths, I’ve rounded it up for this example. If you use that headshot on one channel for 2 years, the cost of that headshot is a daily 41c. Then think about if you have it across multiple channels… I’m sure you get it. They don’t have to be expensive. Naturally there are other headshot and branding options, which are are greater investment. More complexity comes at a higher cost.
The real question could be: How much are you willing to lose by not having a professional headshot?
Myth: You don’t need a headshot
Truth: There’s a bunch of reasons why you might think this: from self confidence, business confidence, fear of not being photogenic and more. This is a surface level myth. It’s likely that you already know that we need to connect with our audience, and that people like to work with people we know, like and trust.
Start with learning more about marketing before diving into a photoshoot if this is news to you. If you did already know that, I would encourage you to dig down a little further and see what’s really what’s tripping you up.
Myth: Headshots are awkward, & have to look serious and formal.
Truth: I have a tough truth about feeling awkward and finding it hard to be in front of the camera. Running a business comes with a lot of challenges and we grow the most when we embrace them. It might be awkward, because it’s different to normal. That’s ok. What if it was also fun as well?
When it comes to the vibe, a great headshot reflects your personality. Larger companies often have parameters on how their headshots look for consistency. If that’s not you, your headshot can be as warm, approachable & creative as you like, while maintaining professionalism.
Myth: You only need one headshot, and it lasts forever.
Truth: We change. We grow wiser, our hair changes, and our style changes. Let’s make sure your headshot looks like you. I personally update my headshot annually, at the least I would recommend updating your headshot at least every two years, or after significant changes to your appearance.
Myth: A headshot only shows your face.
Truth: A traditional headshot includes face and shoulders. We’ve come so far since those classic grey background days. Rather than focussing on what’s a headshot and what’s not, it’s more important is that you have a photo of yourself for your business. This photo above is more of a branding photo but it is also doing the job of showing your face to your audience. We can stil call it a headshot. Headshots often extend into branding by incorporating elements of your environment or lifestyle. This adds interest and helps you stand out in a busy digital crowd.
Myth: Headshots take a long time and are a hassle to schedule.
Truth: Taking the photo is the quick part – as quick as 10 minutes if you come along to one of my Headshot Days. Planning can be daunting, especially if you don’t know what the options are, or what to ask for. That’s where my Fill the Brief Quiz comes in handy, as it helps you discover what photos your business needs. Photography and branding is a collaborative effort between you and the service provider. Let go of thinking about the time it takes to brief and plan a photoshoot. What if it was an opportunity to dig in deeper to think about your business so you can maximise the results from the photoshoot?
Myth: I can just Photoshop myself to perfection (or use AI).
Truth: I’m sorry to burst the bubble that is helping you avoid being in front of the camera. Headshots are not about the click of my camera. My clients don’t just expect a photo, and rightly so. I help them with linking their photos with the brand, adding the right amount creativity and personalisation. Google says it doesn’t penalise reach with AI images, but your viewers will. There’s a lower perceived value with AI imagery as the vast majority of it looks generic, unclear at what’s on offer, dishonest and hyperrealistic. What brand wants to look boring?
A little retouching is fine, but if it’s the first thing you see, or that there are AI photos, the message changes. It becomes a message of insincerity and lack of confidence. It’s not a message that will help build your brand. Your marketing will be so much more powerful with a professional, yet still real photo of you and who knows? The confidence can come afterwards. I know some of my clients found more confidence in showing up after their photoshoot and maybe you will too.
Have any of these myths been relatable, or stopped you from having a professional headshot? Choosing the right photographer for you can make a world of difference. A difference that goes beyond your finished photos, but how you feel about the experience as well. I hope this can be the beginning of embracing and celebrating you and your business.
Be sure to join my Wallaby Whispers emails to hear more about what I have to say about business photography. I’m just a quick email away with any questions.