Headshot photography has become a trendy and essential style of photography. This style is often used in corporate IDs and modeling portfolios.
Due to its many uses, it can be hard to understand if you’re a newbie.
This is why I have created this Ultimate Headshot Photography Guide. We will discuss tips, poses, and the differences between headshots and portrait photography.
Learn how to take professional headshots.
What is Headshot Photography?
The face of a subject is the focus of headshot photography. These photos are taken primarily for identification purposes and corporate ID cards: social media profile photo, portfolio, or company website.
Most headshots fill the frame with the model’s face, leaving very little space on top and sides.
Focus is on the face only, with a solid color background. The background can be blurred entirely for a busy setup.
Headshot vs. Portrait Photography
Headshots and portrait photography differ in style but are part of the same genre.
The headshot style is one where the focus is on the face, and the background is removed. The image is sharp, simple, and clean. No props are usually used.
Portrait photography, on the other hand, has no rules or guidelines. All you need to do is choose a topic that will be the main focus of your photography.
You can use it as a model or even a product. Use props to create frames, choose visually appealing lighting, experiment with different camera angles, and add new backgrounds.
Headshots are portrait photography that concentrates on the face, removing all distractions from the frame.
As a photographer, you should ask how the photo will be used before starting.
Will it appear in a particular magazine or column? Or will it be posted on a website alongside others?
You can eliminate much guesswork and revisions if you know what the image is for and how to shoot it.
Asking your client for images they could share with you will be an excellent idea. If you don’t have any, go to Pinterest to collect sample images you can share with your client.
Understanding expectations will help you set up your shoot, select the equipment and make the best decisions.
Select the right background.
The backdrop will be important in your headshot photography, just as it is for any other style of photography. The location is essential for setting the photo’s mood and can significantly impact the model’s appearance.
The best backdrop for headshots is neutral, simple, and uncluttered. A plain gray or white background is ideal because it lets the model’s clothing and face be the main focus of the photo.
You can use a neutral-colored seamless paper or muslin as a backdrop if you work in a studio. Alternatively, you can also use a wall or fabric in a solid color as a background.
Make sure the background is well-lit and that it has no distracting patterns.
If you work on location, you can also use a wall, fence, or neutral-colored wall as a background.
Ensure the location has good lighting and the background doesn’t distract.
Avoid backgrounds that are bright, busy, or colorful. They can detract from your subject’s face and ruin the look of your image. Opt for a natural background to complement the subject’s skin and clothing.
If you’re doing a corporate photo shoot, a standard backdrop and a similar pose are expected to ensure all photos’ consistency.
Lighting is important
Lighting is a crucial element in headshot photography as it can have a significant impact on the look and feel. Natural lighting is the best option.
When choosing a location, choose a place with plenty of natural light.
It works with natural light during golden hours, just before sunrise or after sunset. The light is warm and soft. It helps to create a natural and flattering image.
You can create the same effect using artificial light when working in a controlled environment, such as a studio. Use a softbox to diffuse light and prevent harsh shadows.
Please pay attention to the quality and direction of the lighting and its intensity when setting up the lighting. Try out different lighting techniques and setups to see what works for you.
Use a reflector
A reflector can be a very effective and simple tool to bounce light onto a subject. This will fill in dark shadows and add dimension to the image. A reflector is beneficial in headshot photography to create a natural and flattering appearance.
If the light comes from a specific direction, it will cast shadows on another part of your face, creating an unflattering look. A reflector will ensure that the light is evenly distributed.
There are several types of reflectors, including gold, silver, and white. The final image will be different depending on which glass you use.
Hold the reflector at a 45-degree angle before your subject to bounce the light back on their face and eliminate shadows.
It helps to create a balanced, natural-looking picture. You can adjust the distance and angle of the reflector to achieve the desired result.
Use a lens that has a fast aperture.
The aperture is the size opening of the lens through which the light enters the sensor. Fast aperture lenses (e.g., f/2.8 and lower) have ample space that allows more light to reach the sensor.
This technique is beneficial for headshots, where you can create a shallow depth-of-field (DOF) by blurring the background and focusing on the face of your model.
Set your camera in aperture priority mode, and select a wide aperture.
You can control the depth of field and focus more on the face. Please focus on the eyes, as they are the essential feature of a portrait.
When increasing your camera’s aperture, you should take some test shots to ensure that the sharpness is not compromised.