How to Prepare for Your Professional Headshots in Kamloops
Looking to book professional headshots in Kamloops? Amazing! Whether you need them for your business, social media, or personal brand, a high-quality headshot can help you show off who you are and what makes you unique—while also helping you stand out from the crowd.
But here’s the thing: To get the best results, it’s essential to put in a little preparation work ahead of time. In this blog, we’ll explore why professional headshots are kind of a big deal and what you can do in advance to make sure your session is as successful as it can be.
Why You May Need Professional Headshots in Kamloops
Are professional headshots still a thing? Definitely! But headshots today aren’t the stiff, corporate-style photos of the past. Modern headshots are all about personality, authenticity, and capturing the essence of your brand—whether that means a polished studio shot or a more relaxed, lifestyle-inspired image.
Headshot photos aren’t just for your LinkedIn either—although they are a great addition for perfecting your profile. They can also be used…
On your website, especially on your about page.
As a visual asset for conferences and networking events.
Shared as a part of a guest podcast opportunity.
Your business card or email signatures.
In press and media features, such as magazines and blogs.
On your social media profile (like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok) and feed
Up-to-date, authentic headshot images help your audience feel connected to you and your brand. They are also a great way to celebrate a big achievement or milestone, like “X number of years in business”, or maybe hitting a big goal you set for the year.
5 Steps to Help You Prepare For Your Headshot Photo Session
Ready to get headshots that you can’t wait to share everywhere? You deserve it! Here are the five steps to help you feel ready to rock your session.
Hire the right photographer.
Okay, maybe this one seems a bit obvious—But hear me out. There are actually many different (and equally great) ways to execute a headshot—whether that’s in the studio, outside in natural light, or perhaps an industry-related environment. Your Kamloops photographer should be able to create the kind of image you’re looking for.
If you’re flexible on the style and you trust your photographer, focus on hiring the right personality fit. I know from my years of experience that some people feel a little nervous in front of the camera, but a cool photographer—nudge nudge—should be able to put you at ease! This will help your photos look as relaxed and natural as possible.
Practice posing and facial expressions for your shoot.
If you’re looking for tips to feel more comfortable in front of the camera, posing practice is for you! By setting some time aside before your session to practice specific facial expressions in front of a mirror (like nailing the “smize”} or even sitting and standing poses that feel most you, you’ll feel more confident the day of.
Of course, your photographer will also act as your guide and help you find the most flattering angles and natural poses, but having some go-to expressions and positions can make the process smoother. The more comfortable you are in your body, the more your confidence will shine through in your final images!
Plan your professional headshot outfit(s).
“What should I wear to my headshot photoshoot?” This is one of the most important questions to figure out in advance! There’s no right answer. In fact, it really comes down to what is most reflective of your business and brand, while also making you feel like the absolute stunner you are!
Keep reading for some headshot outfit ideas you might want to try.
1. Classic Professional
You can’t go wrong with a great blouse and blazer look for your headshot photos. Depending on your industry, this look may just feel like the most natural choice. Plus, it never goes out of style. If the classic professional look is right for you, you may also be inclined to avoid busy patterns or logos that can distract from the photos.
2. Business Casual
Looking for a more relaxed look? A business-casual vibe conveys a brand that’s more approachable. If this resonates with you, pick out a great sweater, a simple dress, or business on top (a blouse and a blazer) with jeans on the bottom. This look is especially popular for people who want to convey a sense of warmth and friendliness, and it is especially popular for women in health, wellness, and beauty industries.
3. Style Icon
Bold brands and personalities shouldn’t get buried under boring outfits! If your headshots are for social media or a creative industry, you might want to stand out with a stylish look.
Wanna wear bold patterns from head to toe? I’m all for it!
How about a big, furry pink jacket? Let’s do it!
A sparkly catsuit? Meow!
I think you’re picking up what I’m putting down. If it’s on brand and makes sense, let’s embrace your inner style icon!
Deciding between looks? Check with your photographer to see if an outfit change is included in your session. You might have time to explore more than one look.
The day before your session, make sure all your outfits are clean and wrinkle free. Pro tip: Bring a lint roller just in case!
Book your grooming and self-care sessions beforehand.
If you want to go into your headshot session with confidence, remember to schedule your grooming and self-care appointments beforehand—whatever that means for you. Some people feel most themselves with everything taken care of, while you might be happy enough getting in for a trim.
Here are some ideas on what this could look like:
Hair: If you need a haircut, schedule it about a week before your session. That way it has time to settle, and you can have a few days to ensure you’re happy with it before your shoot actually takes place.
Makeup: The day of your headshot photoshoot is not the day to try out a new look. Go with a makeup application that’s tried and true. On the other hand, if you’re hiring a professional, book a consultation with them first so you know what to expect on shoot day.
Skincare: Put some TLC into your skin starting the week before your photoshoot. That means effectively removing makeup at night, moisturizing, and drinking lots of water! Avoid trying new skincare products that could cause breakouts.
Brows: Whether you’re looking for a wax and tint or you’re planning something more permanent, a little brow work can go a long way in giving you that extra oomph for your shoot.
Nails: Like everything else listed here, nails are not a necessity for your headshot photoshoot! But if having freshly done nails makes you feel like the best version of you, plan your appointment a day or two in advance.
Write a list of your essentials to bring the day of your photoshoot.
As a professional photographer I will say that most sessions go smoothly—but should any mishap happen, it’s good to pack the essentials! Here are some things to bring to your headshot session… just in case.
Extra outfits
Hairbrush or comb
Makeup (for touch-ups)
Lint roller
It’s better to have these items and not need them, then to need them and not have them!
Get Headshots You’re Excited to Show Off
Your professional headshots in Kamloops can help you elevate your brand, make a lasting impression, and also help people connect with you on a deeper level.
Taking the time to prepare for your professional headshots will ensure you get images that represent the authentic you. With the right photographer, outfits, posing, self-care, and essentials, you can ensure a great headshot session.
As your headshot photographer, delivering great photos to you is important, but so is ensuring an amazing experience. I would love to chat with you about your ideas for your headshots and talk about how we can bring your vision to life!
