How to Prepare for Your Corporate Headshot: 7 Tips from a Birmingham Pro
A good headshot opens doors.
An unprofessional one can limit them.
Your headshot is often the first impression for prospective clients, employers, or collaborators, whether on LinkedIn, your company’s team page, or a conference bio. You have only a moment to appear credible and approachable. While the photographer plays a key role, your preparation is essential and can make a significant difference.
I have photographed headshots for individuals and teams across Birmingham. These seven factors consistently distinguish a strong, confident headshot from an ordinary one.
1. SORT YOUR GROOMING A FEW DAYS AHEAD
Schedule any grooming, such as a haircut, beard trim, or colour, three to four days before your session rather than on the day itself. Same-day grooming can appear stiff or overly neat. Allowing a few days helps you look natural. Keep makeup understated and matte, as studio lighting highlights shine. prioritise
2. CHOOSE ONE STRONG, SIMPLE OUTFIT
A headshot is mostly the face and shoulders, so the top half of your outfit does all the talking. Pick a solid colour over a busy pattern, make sure it fits properly across the shoulders, and steam it the night before. A structured jacket or a clean knit reads well. If your industry is more relaxed, that's fine — make it the smartest relaxed version of you.
3. THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU WANT TO COMMUNICATE
Authority and approachability require different approaches, and the appropriate balance depends on your profession. For example, a barrister may emphasise authority, while a wellness coach may prioritise approachability. Decide in advance which quality you wish to highlight, and we will tailor your expression and posture accordingly. This preparation streamlines the session and builds confidence.
4. PRACTISE YOUR EXPRESSION IN THE MIRROR
This sounds odd, but it works. The "genuine" smile that reads as warm and confident is one most people have to find on purpose. A real smile reaches the eyes — think of something that actually amuses you, rather than holding a fixed grin. Try a few options at home: a soft smile, a relaxed neutral, and a fuller smile. You'll walk in already knowing your best angles.
5. MIND YOUR POSTURE
Tension in the shoulders and jaw is visible in photographs. On the day of your session, roll your shoulders back and down, lengthen your neck slightly, and move your forehead slightly toward the camera to define your jawline and avoid a leaning-back appearance. I will provide guidance, but arriving relaxed is beneficial. Have a glass of water and allow yourself time to settle before the session.
6. GET THE FRAMING RIGHT FOR WHERE IT'S GOING
LinkedIn displays photos in a circular crop, so we will leave space around your image and keep you centred. If you require the same headshot for a website team grid, press bio, or speaker profile, please inform me in advance. We can capture variations in the same session to ensure your images are suitable for all platforms. Planning for different crop formats is more effective than making adjustments afterwards.
7. BOOK SOMEONE WHO MAKES YOU FEEL AT EASE
Genuine relaxation cannot be faked, and the camera reveals it. The most important factor in a successful headshot is feeling comfortable with your photographer. I prioritise creating a welcoming environment; clients often mention they feel at ease within minutes, and that comfort is reflected in the final image.
THE MISTAKES TO AVOID
- Leaving grooming to the last morning.
- Loud logos, slogans or distracting patterns.
- A fixed, forced grin held too long.
- Brand-new glasses with heavy glare, or smudged lenses.
- Turning up rushed, stressed and straight off a call.
GET IT RIGHT ONCE; USE IT EVERYWHERE
A strong headshot is one of the highest-return images you'll ever commission. It works quietly for you across every platform, every day, for a couple of years. Prepare properly, and you'll get a set you're genuinely happy to put your name to.
Ready for a headshot that earns its place?
See my personal branding and corporate headshot work (https://andrew-roberts-photo.co.uk/portfolio/personal-branding-corporate-headshots), and get in touch (https://andrew-roberts-photo.co.uk/contact) to book your session in Birmingham.