How to Prepare for Professional Headshots in Calgary: A Step-by-Step Guide
It’s finally the big day! You’ve decided it’s time to update your photos with a fresh look to show the world you mean business. Professional headshots are a powerful way to communicate your confidence, personality, and professionalism. But how can you prepare to ensure your headshots truly stand out? Here’s a step-by-step guide tailored for professional headshots in Calgary to help you look and feel your best.
Step 1: Define Your Vision
Before your photoshoot, decide what kind of headshot suits your needs. Are you looking for a standard, polished look, or something edgy and fashionable that reflects your unique brand?
Having a clear vision is essential. Don’t hesitate to gather sample photos that inspire you. Sharing these with your photographer helps convey your preferences. Keep in mind that every photographer has a unique style, so while you won’t get an exact replica, your samples will help guide the shoot.
Step 2: Choose the Perfect Outfit
Your clothing plays a key role in the overall success of your professional headshots. Use this guide to make the best wardrobe choices:
| Male | Female | |
| Tops | Button-down shirts, polos, or fitted sweaters. Layers like blazers can add structure. These create a clean and polished look while enhancing your body shape. | Blouses, fitted tops, or dresses. Layers like cardigans or blazers for variety. These options add texture and dimension, making photos more visually appealing. |
| Bottoms | Chinos, tailored pants, or dark jeans. Ensure they are clean and wrinkle-free. These provide a sharp, put-together appearance that flatters your legs. | Tailored pants, skirts, or dresses that highlight your shape. Avoid overly tight clothing. These flatter your figure while maintaining a classy look. |
| Shoes | Polished shoes like loafers, Oxfords, or clean sneakers depending on the theme. Proper shoes complete the outfit and elevate your overall appearance. | Heels, flats, or clean boots, depending on the look. Comfort matters for long shoots. Shoes can elongate your legs and add elegance. |
| Accessories | Minimal accessories. A clean watch or cufflinks for formal shoots. Too many accessories can distract from your face and outfit. | Minimal jewelry or a statement piece like a necklace. Avoid noisy accessories. These enhance the outfit without overshadowing your face. |
| Colors | Neutral or muted tones: navy, grey, beige, white. Calgary professional headshots. These photograph well and allow focus to remain on your features. | Soft pastels, jewel tones, or neutrals: beige, cream, light pink, or teal. These colors complement most skin tones and add softness to photos. |
| Patterns | Subtle patterns like thin stripes or small checks. These add interest without overwhelming the photo. | Solid colors or subtle patterns. Avoid overly busy prints. This keeps the focus on you and prevents clashing with the background. |
| Fit | Fitted but not tight. Ensure clothes flatter your build. Well-fitted clothes enhance your natural silhouette. | Clothing that defines your waistline and complements your figure. Well-fitting outfits enhance your shape and boost confidence. |
| Avoid | Bright neon colors, heavy logos, or baggy clothes. These can distract and make you look unprofessional. Unless you are aiming for a Brand shoot. | Baggy clothes, overly shiny fabrics, or anything too revealing. These can distort your proportions and divert attention from your face. |
Pro Tip: Well-fitted outfits in complementary colors enhance your natural features and project confidence.
Step 3: Master Posing for Professional Headshots
Here are practical posing tips to ensure you look amazing in your photos:
- Work Your Angles
- Find your “good side” by practicing in the mirror or taking selfies.
- Turn slightly to one side to create a slimming and dynamic look.
- Position Your Chin
- Avoid a double chin by pushing your face slightly forward and tilting your chin down.
- Try the “turtle” technique—stick your face forward like a turtle for a defined jawline.
- Relax Your Face
- Avoid stiffness by relaxing your jaw and forehead.
- Part your lips slightly or give a soft smile for a natural look.
- Engage with Your Eyes
- Think happy thoughts to bring life to your eyes.
- Smize (smile with your eyes) by slightly squinting for a flattering gaze.
- Perfect Your Smile
- Think of something joyful for a genuine smile.
- Press your tongue lightly against your teeth to avoid a “gummy” smile.
- Accentuate Features
- Highlight your cheekbones by slightly sucking in your cheeks.
- Tilt your head toward the light source to emphasize your natural contours.
Step 4: General Preparation Tips
- Practice in the mirror: Experiment with poses and expressions to find what works best for you.
- Take test shots: Use your phone to try different angles before the shoot.
- Relax and have fun: Genuine expressions always photograph better than overly practiced ones.
Why Professional Headshots Matter in Calgary
Whether you’re a business professional, entrepreneur, or artist, a high-quality headshot can open doors to new opportunities. It’s not just about looking good—it’s about making a strong first impression and showcasing your brand. With Calgary’s vibrant business and creative community, investing in professional headshots in Calgary can help you stand out in a competitive market.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for professional headshots in Calgary is easier than you think when you have the right tips and tools. By defining your vision, choosing the right outfit, and mastering your poses, you’ll feel confident and ready to shine.
Remember, professional headshots are more than just photos—they’re a representation of who you are. Let your personality and professionalism come through in every shot!
Booking a Professional Headshot in Calgary
If you’d like to book a Professional Headshot in Calgary, check out my Service Page. In the meantime, explore some of my work and see how I’ve helped others capture their confidence and professionalism!
Finally, I would love to give a special thank you to Jocelyn and Elizabeth from Mode Models for helping with my professional headshots in Calgary.
