Professional headshots are a significant part to establishing and maintaining your brand. It is fascinating how much information you can derive from a simple picture of a person. That is probably why the phrase “a picture is worth a thousand words” exists. A headshot establishes a lot about you, especially when accompanied with a biography, and potential employers or customers will make a judgment based on even the smallest variables that they can access. With that in mind, I will lay out a few reasons why a professional headshot will benefit you and your personal brand.
1. What is a Headshot?
I imagine most of you who read this article understand what a headshot is, but I want to lay out a few things that may clarify their importance. A professional headshot seems to be one of those industry standards set in place for quite some time for corporate structures. But in my opinion, a professional headshot may be more important for entrepreneurs and freelancers in establishing themselves. People will put a certain level of trust into a brand that they have worked with or even grown up with. That level of trust has to be earned for an entrepreneur or a freelancer. It sounds counter-intuitive, but a professional headshot can actually serve a role in establishing that trust. A headshot actually puts a face to the name. It makes the business look more personable and approachable.
2. Establishes a Tone
A professional headshot will also establish a specific tone. The tone is based on numerous factors, such as your background, your clothing, and your posture. Typically, most headshots are on a blank background, a solid background of lighter colors, such as light gray, light brown, and white, depending on the style of your brand. In the same vein, the clothing you are wearing will say a lot about you and your approach to business. If you are building a brand that is either high-end, luxurious, or even politically-oriented, it would be beneficial to incorporate business clothing. However, on the other end of the spectrum, creating a brand that is professional but relaxed, you can wear more casual clothing. When it comes to relaxed clothes, however, I would encourage using a solid color shirt that contrasts well against the backdrop. Of course, when it comes to personal brands, wear whatever you like, however, I would encourage you to stray from anything that may be viewed as offensive.
3. Relating to Brand Identity
With establishing a tone, you may also consider how it relates to your personal brand’s identity. You need to consider what your brand’s mission statement, values, and beliefs are and how they align with any imagery and visuals that you produce. Now, it’s hard to change your face to align with your brand identity, but smaller details, like the ones I mentioned in the previous portion, will amplify your brand identity. One of the best examples I can give are musicians, especially independent musicians. There is a lot of time and investment into their brand and want to ensure that any photos or headshots align with the image they present. Typically, musicians can present themselves as the most down-to-earth individuals or extremely eccentric, depending on the artist. Your headshot can be a valuable commodity for your brand identity and that can not be understated.
When taking inventory of your personal brand, there are numerous variables and factors to consider. I hope after reading this article, that a professional headshot may be included in your considerations. By building your brand with an identity that potential customers can see and access, trust will be a much easier resource to come across. Especially if your work can back it up. I hope that you have enjoyed this article and that I have added something to your day!
Warmest regards,
Logan Clark