With nearly a decade of experience providing professional headshots for companies in Akron, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and Youngstown, I’ve come to learn a thing or two about drawing out natural smiles from my subjects.
So, should you practice smiling before your headshot session? The short answer is – No. But this depends on the photographer you choose to work with.
If you’re someone who doesn’t like having their picture taken, a practiced smile will make you look anxious. A genuine smile comes from reacting to things you enjoy, like looking back on a fun childhood memory or seeing an old friend for the first time in years.
When it comes to business headshots, you want to work with a photographer who knows how to coach & give direction. There’s no advantage to practicing your smile if you’re working with a photographer who can pull great expressions out of you.
A posed smile looks fake & disingenuous
Whether you’re someone who hates taking pictures or someone who loves being photographed, you want your smile to look confident & approachable, instead of rehearsed or practiced. And, that’s where I truly excel when working with clients.
During my headshot sessions, I use proven techniques to put clients at ease allowing me to get the most genuine expressions. Clients receive expert coaching and direction to find the most flattering body positions to achieve the best headshots possible.
My top 5 tips for better headshots
Instead of practicing your smile, try these tips to help you better prepare for your headshot session.
- Get plenty of rest the night before your session.
- Avoid negative interactions with people before your session.
- Call your biggest supporter on your way to the session.
- Think of 3 things that make you happy on arrival to the session.
- Let down your guard a little during the session.
Following these tips will help ensure that your mind is free of distractions and ready to have fun during your session, which is the perfect recipe for great headshots.
It’s more than a picture.
