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In this article we're going to tell you 5 tips to producing a professional headshot and then show you the 7-step process to getting that headshot ready to go within 20 minutes!
Having a professional headshot is extremely important, and since we're a personal training platform, it's especially important for online personal training. In any online/remote profession, when you have clients applying to work with you from around the world - you're going to want the first thing they see to be a professional photo of you.
The irony of me writing this article is the lack of quality in my own personal headshot...but by the end of the blog I may (or may not) have taken advantage of the tips and re-took my own headshot.
Now, without further adieu,
If you don't have one, just have your friend that owns one take the photo. The point of this article is how to do this "for cheap". Obviously, hiring a photographer would be the best method when it comes to getting a professional headshot (but we're here to save a little cash 💰) (With that being said, if you can afford a photographer, then you 100% should work with one!).
Modern day phones can take absolutely stunning features, especially if used correctly. If you happen to have a newer iPhone, take advantage of the camera that's already attached to your mobile device. Please avoid using your computers webcam, an older camera, or any type of older phone.
Try to choose an inside location with GREAT lighting. If you can't be inside for some reason, then choose an outside location that has access to lots of shade. Pro tip: DO NOT use your flash - this will ruin the quality of the photo.
If you have to use the flash then it's best to wait and take the professional photo another time.
It's 2021, our cameras have 3 and 10 second timers. Even if you think you're fast enough though, I highly recommend properly setting up the camera and then utilizing the 10 second timer.
The last thing you want to do is take one style of photo, change back into your other clothes, sit down at your computer to review...and then have regrets. Take a BUNCH of different styles of photos. Take some professionally, some laughing, some smiling, or maybe some mid-dance (who knows what photos will turn out the best!).
You also want to look at these photos from different viewpoints (phone vs. Ipad vs. LinkedIn/Instagram). You might want to take a few photos from far away but then do a few close-ups for your LinkedIn photo.
This is an easy one, but don't half-ass your professional photo. This photo is going to go on your Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and more. Make sure you take the time to pick out the right outfit (possibly multiple) and really bring your A-game to the photoshoot.
The focus is on you. We don't need 5 people in the background having a conversation, traffic on the highway, or a band at a concert behind you. Try to stand in front of a solid, single-colored wall. With tools like Canva, you're able to instantly (explained in the next section) remove the background from your photo entirely.
Now, what are the actual steps I should take to capture my own professional headshot at home? We interviewed a DIY photography headshot expert, Nicole Hatchard.
I personally want to thank Nicole Hatchard for the tips!I actually went through and followed her steps and BOOM! I now have a new profile picture. It's absolutely amazing what the "Remove Background Tool" on Canva can do and it only takes a few seconds.
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Oooo! Almost forgot - make sure you update your photo across ALL social channels once you've chosen your favorite. That means LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc..
So after all that, we have to ask you...
About the author:
Cory McKane is the CEO/Founder of WeStrive - a platform for personal trainers to manage & grow their personal training business.
