1
Not Defining the Purpose of the Headshot
Many people book a headshot without knowing where it will be used (LinkedIn, acting, corporate website, personal brand). This leads to images that don’t match the intended audience or goal.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing for Your Headshot Photography Session
What to wear, how to pose, and how to feel confident in front of the camera.
2
Wearing Distracting or Trendy Clothing
Busy patterns, loud colors, or overly trendy outfits can pull attention away from your face and quickly date the photo.
3
Ignoring Grooming and Skin Prep
Skipping basic grooming like haircuts, beard trims, or skincare can make small issues more noticeable in high-resolution images.
4
Choosing the Wrong Outfit Fit
Clothes that are too tight, too loose, or wrinkled can look unflattering on camera and affect posture and confidence.
5
Overdoing Makeup or Avoiding It Entirely
Heavy makeup can look unnatural under studio lighting, while no makeup at all can result in uneven skin tones or shine.
6
Not Practicing Expressions or Posing
First-time clients often assume they’ll naturally know how to pose, which can lead to stiff expressions or awkward body language.
7
Using an Outdated or Inaccurate Look
A headshot should reflect how you look now. Major differences in hairstyle, weight, or grooming can cause confusion or mistrust.
8
Forgetting to Rest and Hydrate Before the Shoot
Lack of sleep or dehydration can result in tired eyes, dull skin, and reduced energy on camera.
9
Not Discussing Style and Background Preferences
Without aligning on background, lighting style, and mood, the final images may not match your personal brand or industry norms.
10
Expecting Heavy Retouching to Fix Everything
Relying on Photoshop instead of preparation can lead to unnatural results and disappointment if expectations aren’t realistic.