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In today's digital world, a headshot is more than just a photo; it's a key part of your professional image. Whether it's on LinkedIn, a company website, or social media, a headshot often serves as the first impression. While many people have a "good" headshot, only a few have truly "great" ones that stand out, make an impact, and communicate something powerful about them. But what sets these two apart?
In this blog, we’ll explore the qualities that define a great headshot versus a good one, and why investing in a great headshot can elevate your personal and professional brand.
A good headshot often captures you looking pleasant and professional, with a neutral, polite expression but not particularly engaging. While presentable, it may lack the warmth or character that leaves a lasting impression. A neutral headshot serves its purpose but doesn’t go beyond simply showing what you look like.
A great headshot, however, captures authenticity. It brings out your personality, making you appear genuine and approachable. You might have a slight smile or an expression that suggests confidence and friendliness. A great headshot conveys emotion and feels like a true reflection of who you are. This authenticity helps viewers connect with you instantly, giving them a sense of who they’ll be meeting.
A good headshot will use standard lighting that lights up your face evenly. It’s effective enough to show your features clearly but may look flat or lack depth. While basic lighting doesn’t distract from the image, it also doesn’t highlight your best features or add much character.
In a great headshot, lighting is everything. Professional photographers use dynamic lighting to bring out your best features and add depth to the image. They may use soft, natural lighting or carefully positioned studio lights that create shadows and highlights to add contrast. This dynamic approach makes you look more vibrant and alive, creating a polished and professional feel.
A good headshot often features a plain background—white, gray, or black. This background doesn’t distract from the subject, but it also doesn’t add much personality. While this style can work in many situations, it may not reflect your profession or brand.
A great headshot, on the other hand, often includes a background that complements your profession or brand. For instance, a corporate executive might have a subtle, blurred office background, while a creative professional may opt for a colorful or textured backdrop. This choice adds context and gives viewers a sense of your work environment or personality without overpowering the image.
A good headshot usually follows standard rules of composition. The subject’s face is centered, and the photographer may use a simple cropping style. There’s nothing technically wrong with it, but it can feel somewhat generic.
In a great headshot, every detail is carefully considered. The hands of the compositional technique are used to crop your photo, and the photographer targets you to the viewer. Headshots are most of the time composed on a great angle taking the rule of thirds for instance, which gives even higher so great - and attractive headshots. It captures attention, and it seems that thought went into the image along with time as well.
A good headshot might show you in neat, professional attire, but it may not align with your brand or industry. Of course, it can be a creative type of professional who does not want to be dressed in a formal suit but is expected to be in one. Or it could be casual company executives who are dressed too casually.
A great headshot takes clothing and styling into account to align with your personal or professional brand. A business suit may be very neat and proper when there is a requirement for one in a corporate position. If the field is creative, then a looser garment that would reflect one’s qualities could be more appropriate. Great headshots are not simply a great picture, it’s a great picture of someone who’s a professional in their field and who fits the brand.
6. Natural Versus Overly Edited.
A good headshot often includes some basic retouching to enhance the overall image. For example, too much editing can make the final product seem artificial, which is not ideal. Over-editing is also not a good idea when it comes to your headshot, as it will take away the impact of your headshot.
A great headshot, however, uses subtle and skillful retouching. The aim is to light the person in the picture but not to make them look artificial. A professional photographer needs to enhance the image but in a way that the image is not affected too much. This method results in impressive and well-done but believable outcomes.
A good headshot shows you looking at the camera, but it may lack a real sense of connection. You’re simply “in the frame,” without making a real impact. This lack of engagement can make the headshot feel passive or uninspired.
A great headshot, however, feels like you’re actively engaging with the camera—and by extension, the viewer. How you look into a lens creates a sense of engagement, which can also translate to confidence and provide an approachable impression. Every headshot can make an active Impression.
A good headshot will have a decent quality that looks fine on most digital platforms. There is quality in it but it’s not meant for bigger formats or high-resolution needs.
A great headshot, however, is taken at high resolution, ensuring it looks crisp and clear even when viewed on larger screens or printed in high quality. These are all significant so that the next time one uses a headshot there are thoughts of presentation and impact keeping in mind the likely platform.
A good headshot might be taken by a friend or an amateur photographer. This may yield satisfactory outcomes, but it usually lacks the polish and professionalism that has been crafted over the years. Good headshots may lack the refined touch a professional brings.
A great headshot is taken by a seasoned photographer who understands lighting, angles, and editing techniques. They will capture the best in you, create an atmosphere in which you will be comfortable, and will be sure that each detail is right for the stunning output. Their expertise is what transforms a good photo into a great headshot.
A good headshot conveys that you are a professional, but it may not go much further. It serves its purpose but doesn’t necessarily stand out or send a specific message about your unique qualities.
A great headshot, however, has a purpose. It’s designed to communicate something specific—whether it’s your leadership, creativity, or approachability. The best headshots align with your brand and help convey your strengths and values instantly to viewers.
The difference between a good headshot and a great one lies in the attention to detail, level of authenticity, and ability to convey your unique personality. While a good headshot is functional, a great headshot goes beyond that to tell a story, create a connection, and make a memorable impact.
Investing in a professional headshot that incorporates these qualities can make all the difference in your online presence. A great headshot not only helps you stand out but also positions you as a credible and approachable professional, setting you apart in a competitive digital world.
Book your headshot session with Studio2U! Our experienced photographers bring the studio to you, capturing your best, authentic self in the comfort of your chosen setting. Contact us today to schedule your session and make a lasting impression!
Why should I invest in a professional headshot?
A great headshot makes a memorable first impression, reflects your personality, and enhances your professional image. This helps you stand out in competitive spaces like LinkedIn.
What should I wear for a headshot session?
Choose attire that aligns with your industry and personal brand. For corporate settings, business attire works well, while creatives may benefit from relaxed yet polished outfits.
How often should I update my headshot?
Updating every 1-2 years, or when there are major changes to your appearance. This keeps your headshot fresh and current with your brand.
