yes, you should update your headshot
When I was at my law firm (or at any of my subsequent corporate jobs), no one told me that I should put makeup on (or get my hair done) for my headshot, not even my mom. No matter what job, it was always the same: a jaded photographer clicking away mindlessly in a dark, depressing conference room, while my colleagues and I lined up as if we are queuing for our mug shot. In fact, my official photos at all the corporate jobs I have had look like I am headed to Rikers Island for a heinous crime.
I had an a ha moment at Own Your Wonder to offer a headshot+makeup package when a client came in for a full-face, glam makeup (false eyelashes, smokey eyes, contouring, the whole works). When I asked her what was the occasion, expecting an engagement, birthday party or something similar, imagine my surprise when she said:
I’m getting my driver’s license picture taken this afternoon. I figured I have to live with this for the next 10 years, so I might as well look good!
Brilliant. Just brilliant. Then there is me (and probably many of you) who’s been collecting bad to terrible headshot photos as long as I’ve been working since age 22 that will haunt me online for the rest of my life and beyond.
So, yes, we all need to update (or get a new) headshot, especially because these images can outdistance and outlive us in the digital universe. It’s also a great way to go “off camera” during your video calls but still have your professional image showing in that rectangular box with your name on it.
Here is what I have learned from our photographers and headshot clients on looking natural yet polished and professional:
It’s worth the investment to get your makeup done professionally because camera flashes and lighting in general can be unforgiving on your skin tone and blemishes (and it minimizes any need to retouch digitally).
Go easy on the makeup - choose natural over glam so that you don’t look over the top or like an 80s soap opera actress (although I’ve seen fake lashes do wonders in photos).
Similarly, it’s worth it to get your hair done professionally so that you’re not fidgeting with your hair during the photoshoot or worrying about any flyaway hair. Go for a look that’s your everyday, natural hairstyle (unless a chignon or an updo is how you wake up in the morning).
Take photos in natural light if you can - soft light in midmorning and afternoon tends to produce the best results as warm colors are more prominent during this time, giving a flattering look to portraits.
Unless you need to be in a uniform or have a strict dress code, negotiate with your photographer to try at least two different outfits during the photoshoot. What looked good in your bathroom mirror the night before may not always be flattering in photos.
Unless you have a specific dress code, try wearing a jewel-tone colored top. I’m usually a white, beige, gray and black kind of person, but in photos, these bright colors are flattering for any skin tone and age.
Keep accessories and necklines simple, especially if you don’t know how the photos will be cropped. Avoid seasonal clothes (including short sleeves) and busy patterns.
People get insecure about their (often nonexistent) double chin or a myriad of other “flaws” that only they notice. All the more important that you work with a professional photographer whom you trust and who, in turn, respects your concerns and wishes.