Professional Headshot Photography

Prep Guide

woman smiling for her headshot

Session Goals

The goals with any headshot session is to make you feel like your most natural self and leave knowing you have portraits you feel proud of and want to show the world.

We know getting your headshot taken can be intimidating and we’re here to make you feel at ease. This Prep Guide will go over everything you need to know; from what to wear, posing, and how to make sure you’re ready for your close up.

Ready, set,

go!

Location is everything

  • Easy peasy! We’ll be there with plenty of time to set up and have everything ready to go for when you arrive.

    SPACE - Ideally, we'd have a 10x25-foot space for lights and a backdrop but have worked in much smaller locations.

  • We can wait to see you here!

    2909 Bryant Ave S Minneapolis, MN 55408

    Feel free to park in the parking lot or on the street and enter through the door on Bryant Ave.

What to wear

This can sometimes feel overwhelming. Our advice? Keep it simple and wear something you love. For business headshots, wear something that feels professional and fits well. I would avoid (unless its part of the brand):

- Stripes
​- Patterns
​- Logos
​- Graphic t-s
​- Hats
​- Brightly colored clothing
​- Plaid, checks
​- Lose baggy button-downs

Need Some ideas? Check out my Pinterest board

Say “Cheese”

Headshots may be awkward at first, but after a couple clicks, the nerves settle and it will start to feel a little more natural and fun. Here are some helpful tips to think about before you step in front of the lens.

  1. Breathe. This may seem obvious, but some nice inhales and exhales go a long way, even in situations like getting your photo taken.

  2. Relax your shoulders. When we feel tense, the shoulders are one of the first giveaways. Bring you shoulders out of your ears, loosen your jaw, and give your body a little shake if you need to.

  3. Tell us your “side”. Some people have a certain side of their face they like photographed better. Let us know that right away so we can position you accordingly.

  4. Bring options. Not sure about that sweater or coat? No problem. Bring it along just in case you want to swap or add something. We have bathrooms and mirrors at the studio for you to use.

  5. Try a variety of poses and expressions. Don’t worry, we’ll help with this (and tell you what to do with your hands.) Try a variety of open and closed mouth smiles, a serious/proud look, and anything else you want to try.

  6. Take a look. We’ll gladly review your images right on the spot with you. If there’s anything you don’t like or want to change up, we’ll take a few more until we get it right.