The "Unphotogenic" Person’s Guide to Getting a Headshot You Actually Love
I hear it from almost every headshot session client… "I am just not photogenic," or "I look awkward in every photo ever taken of me."
If you’ve ever felt like the camera just isn’t seeing you the way you see yourself, you are not alone. As a professional headshot photographer who is also completely un-photogenic myself (this, in fact, is why I’m behind the camera and not in front of it!), I am here to tell you that it is not you. It is almost always a combination of bad lighting, poor angles, and a lack of guidance.
A lot of the people you see with stunning, confident headshots on LinkedIn started exactly where you are right now. They were nervous and convinced they would be the one person that wouldn’t photograph well. That’s why at my photo Studio in Westport, I use a specific process to almost guarantee results, and get you a headshot that you will actually love.
Why You Think You Look Bad in Photos
The truth is that being "photogenic" is not a genetic gift. Most people hate photos of themselves because they are judging their appearance based on harsh overhead office lights or a quick phone snap (with significant distortion, especially when using the forward-facing lens). There could be shadows in all the wrong places or distortion on your features.
In the Studio, I use expert lighting designed to flatter most facial structures. We can soften features or add definition just by shifting a light a few inches (and I often do make these seemingly tiny adjustments during the session!). The goal is for lighting to work for you instead of against you.
Preparation and Wardrobe Styling
A lot of the "unphotogenic" feeling comes from a lack of control. This is why wardrobe guidance is a core part of my signature process. When you show up knowing you look your best, you can truly start your session with at least 50% less worry.
I always recommend wearing clothes that make you feel good and also comfortable. For women, a blouse in a neutral color and a fitted blazer is a classic choice. For men, choosing colors that complement hair and skin tone makes a world of difference. When you aren't worrying about a stray hair or a two sizes too big blazer, you can really focus on having a natural expression.
Forget Posing and Focus on Guidance
One of the biggest misconceptions about headshots is that you need to know how to pose. You really don’t - and posing is something that takes years to master. That’s why it’s my job is to provide a fully guided experience from start to finish.
Instead of leaving you to figure out what to do with your hands or how to tilt your head, I talk you through every single movement. We keep the environment relaxed and reassuring so that your expressions stay genuine. Often it’s capturing those in-between moments where you’re relaxed that gets us the best results - and the best final image!
Immediate Feedback and the Satisfaction Guarantee
The fear of the unknown is what makes most people nervous. This is why we do an immediate image viewing right after your session (in fact, you can instantly see the photos I take come up on the screen nearby). That way, you get to see the results instantly and we can make adjustments on the spot.
I believe so strongly in this collaborative process that a satisfaction guarantee is included with every session. You should never have to pay for images you do not absolutely love. My goal is for you to walk out of the Studio with a headshot that will represent you in the best light possible online, whether you that headshot is being used for press release, updating your LinkedIn profile, or going up on a company website.
You are probably more photogenic than you think you are. Often, you simply haven't had the right experience in front of a camera yet. And if you are in Fairfield County or Westchester and are ready for a no-stress photography experience, I would love to help you finally get a headshot you are proud to share.
