How to Review and Select Your Headshot: Practical Tips for Choosing the Right Image

Choosing your final headshot from a large gallery can feel overwhelming, especially with multiple looks, outfit changes, and subtle differences in expressions. Which image best represents you? How do you sift through so many options? Here are practical tips to help you confidently select headshots you’ll genuinely like.

1. Create a “Favorites” Folder for Easy Reference
Create a dedicated “Favorites” folder to keep your selections organized; you can use it to copy any images that catch your eye as you review your gallery. Having your best images grouped together in one place will make it easier to compare them later and focus on your final selection without needing to scroll through the entire gallery repeatedly. If you have many similar images, consider using subfolders within “Favorites” to group images by expressions or poses. This structure can simplify your final comparisons and help you keep everything organized.

2. Do an Initial Pass to Identify Standouts
Start with a quick pass through the gallery to get an overall sense of the collection. Rather than analyzing each image in detail, simply focus on ones that naturally catch your attention or resonate with you. Set these images aside or note them, and don’t worry about narrowing down too much in this first round.

On your second pass, you can start to refine by eliminating images that may feel redundant or by grouping similar poses and expressions together. This process of elimination makes it easier to manage a large gallery and focus on the images that truly stand out.

3. Focus on Expression Over Minor Details
Your expression is what people notice first, making it the key element in a strong headshot. Look for an image where your expression feels warm, approachable, and confident. A relaxed, natural look will convey who you are far better than worrying about tiny details.

It’s normal to notice small imperfections, but remember that minor adjustments can be made in retouching. Ask yourself, “When I look at others’ headshots, do I focus on tiny details or their overall expression?” This helps you see the big picture, guiding you to choose images that capture your personality rather than those that seem technically flawless.

4. Consider the Purpose of Each Headshot
Think about where each headshot will be used—whether for LinkedIn, a company website, or a more casual setting. Let the intended purpose guide your decision, selecting images that fit the context in which they’ll be seen.

This approach gives you flexibility and ensures that each image aligns with your goals. It can also help you decide between a few favorites by focusing on the specific impression each image will make.

5. Zoom Out for a Realistic View
Viewing your headshot at a smaller size, similar to how it will appear on LinkedIn or a website, allows you to see it as others will. This “zoomed-out” perspective keeps you from getting bogged down by minor details that are easy to notice close-up but don’t impact the headshot’s overall impression.

By focusing on the impact of the headshot as a whole, you’ll notice expressions, energy, and overall feel that make it memorable. Remember, others will notice your confidence and authenticity, not small imperfections.

6. Label or Tag Finalists to Track Key Qualities
Once you’ve narrowed down to a select group, use labels or tags to mark qualities you like, such as “confident expression,” “natural smile,” or “professional look.” Notes on each image’s strengths make it easier to compare final options and help with decisions if you plan to use different images for varied purposes, like LinkedIn vs. personal websites.

By tracking qualities you value, you can quickly review and finalize your choices to align with the look and feel you’re aiming for.

7. Group and Compare Similar Images
If your gallery contains several similar images with only slight variations, try grouping them together by look, angle, or expression. Comparing within each group allows you to pick the strongest image, which can simplify your final choices and ensure you’re not distracted by small lighting or angle changes.

Grouping similar images ensures that you stay focused on finding the best version from each look and style without getting sidetracked by slight variations.

8. Get Feedback from a Trusted Friend
Sometimes, a second opinion can help you see qualities you might miss. Show your top selections to a trusted friend or colleague and ask which image captures your personality best. An outside perspective can give you added confidence in your final choice and remind you of what others truly see in your headshot.

9. Embrace Imperfections
When reviewing close-up images of yourself, it’s easy to notice small imperfections. Don’t worry about these minor details—retouching can address them if needed. Instead, focus on choosing an image that captures your personality. A relaxed expression or warm smile will make a memorable impression and help others feel connected to the real you. Embracing the authentic qualities in your headshot creates a relatable, inviting image that conveys confidence and approachability.

A genuine expression and relaxed posture often make a bigger impact than an overly perfect appearance.

Conclusion
Choosing a headshot doesn’t have to be complicated. By focusing on expression, organizing your favorites, and trusting an outside perspective, you can confidently select images that reflect your best qualities. Remember, what stands out to others isn’t the minor imperfections but the warmth, confidence, and authenticity in your expression. A great headshot captures your personality, leaving a positive impression that resonates with viewers.

8 Personal Branding Mistakes That Could Be Holding You Back

In today’s professional landscape, personal branding is essential for standing out, building credibility, and attracting the right opportunities. However, there are common pitfalls that can hurt your efforts. Whether you're an entrepreneur, corporate professional, or freelancer, avoiding these personal branding mistakes will help you build a reputation that reflects your values and career goals.

Here are eight common personal branding mistakes you should avoid.

1. Inconsistency Across Platforms

One of the biggest mistakes in personal branding is being inconsistent across different platforms. Your LinkedIn profile, personal website, social media accounts, and email signature should all convey a cohesive message about who you are and what you stand for. If your LinkedIn profile is polished and professional but your Instagram feels casual or off-brand, it can confuse people about your identity and goals.

Consistency in tone, visuals, and messaging builds trust and helps people recognize and understand your brand no matter where they encounter it. Maintaining this consistency across platforms makes you appear professional and recognizable, which is essential in today’s competitive market.

2. Lack of Authenticity

Personal branding should reflect who you are, not a persona you think others want to see. When your brand feels inauthentic or forced, it’s harder for people to connect with you. There’s often pressure to follow industry trends or create an overly polished version of yourself, but staying true to your values is key to building credibility.

Highlight your genuine strengths and experiences, including challenges you’ve overcome. Authenticity makes your brand more relatable and trustworthy, which is essential for building lasting relationships.

3. Ignoring Your Online Presence

Your online presence is a major component of your personal brand. Ignoring your profiles on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, or a personal website can lead to missed opportunities to engage and showcase your expertise. Regularly updating your profiles to reflect your latest achievements and career goals is crucial.

Having outdated or incomplete profiles can make it seem like you’re not serious about your professional brand. Stay active by sharing relevant content and engaging with your network to maintain a strong online presence.

4. Focusing Only on Yourself

While your personal brand is about you, focusing exclusively on promoting yourself can make you appear self-centered. Effective personal branding involves building relationships, sharing knowledge, and offering value to others. If you’re only promoting your own achievements, it can hurt your credibility.

Engage with others by sharing their content, offering feedback, or providing helpful advice. Your brand will be stronger when people see you as someone who contributes to their success, not just your own.

5. Neglecting Professional Visuals

Visuals play a significant role in how your personal brand is perceived. Poor-quality or outdated visuals, whether it’s your headshot, website design, or social media images, can send the wrong message. A pixelated or overly casual profile picture can make you seem unprofessional.

Invest in professional photography for your headshot and ensure that your visuals align with the professional image you want to project. High-quality visuals enhance your brand and show that you care about how you’re perceived.

6. Trying to Appeal to Everyone

Trying to create a brand that appeals to everyone dilutes your message and makes it hard for people to understand what sets you apart. It’s important to define your niche and focus on attracting the right audience. A targeted personal brand that speaks directly to your ideal audience is far more effective than one that tries to cater to everyone.

Don’t be afraid to narrow your focus. A clear, specific message will attract the right opportunities and help you stand out in your field.

7. Failing to Evolve

Your personal brand should evolve as you grow in your career. Failing to adapt your brand to reflect your current skills, experiences, and goals is a major mistake. What worked for you earlier in your career may not be relevant as you progress.

Regularly review your brand and make updates to stay aligned with where you are today. Whether you’ve gained new expertise, shifted industries, or taken on leadership roles, your personal brand should reflect those changes.

8. Not Having a Professional Headshot

One of the most common mistakes is not investing in a professional headshot. Your headshot is often the first impression people have of you, especially on platforms like LinkedIn or your personal website. An outdated or unprofessional headshot can hurt your credibility.

A professional headshot conveys confidence, professionalism, and approachability. It’s worth the investment to ensure your headshot represents who you are today and reflects the image you want to project.

Conclusion: Build a Strong, Authentic Brand

Your personal brand is one of your most valuable assets, but it’s easy to fall into common traps that undermine your efforts. By avoiding these eight personal branding mistakes, you can build a brand that is consistent, authentic, and aligned with your goals. A strong personal brand is built on staying true to yourself and delivering value to others.

Ready to enhance your personal brand with a professional headshot? Book a session today to ensure your visuals align with the brand you want to project!

10 Reasons Why You Need a Professional Headshot (and Why You Shouldn't Wait)

Photo by: Donald Carlton (San Diego Professional Headshots)

In today’s digital world, your headshot is often the first thing people notice about you. Whether you’re networking, applying for a job, or building your personal brand, having a high-quality headshot is essential. Here are 10 reasons why investing in a professional headshot is a smart move for your career and personal growth.

1. First Impressions Matter—Make Yours Count

Your headshot is often the first image someone will see of you online, whether on LinkedIn, a company website, or social media. A professional headshot ensures that the first impression you make is a strong one, presenting you as competent, confident, and approachable.

Pro Tip: Your headshot should reflect your personality and the message you want to send about your professionalism.

2. Boost Your Personal Brand

Your personal brand is your calling card, and a professional headshot reinforces that brand image. Whether you're an executive, a freelancer, or an entrepreneur, your headshot visually communicates your commitment to your career and your professionalism.

Pro Tip: Use your headshot as a tool to convey the qualities you want people to associate with you—confidence, competence, and authenticity.

3. Enhances Your Online Presence

Your headshot is an essential component of your online identity. A well-done, professional image can help you stand out in a crowded digital world. People are more likely to engage with profiles that look polished and professional.

Pro Tip: Different platforms may call for different styles of headshots. Work with your photographer to capture a range of expressions and poses for flexibility.

4. Makes You Memorable at Networking Events

Whether at in-person events or online, your headshot helps people remember who you are. After a networking event, a professional headshot makes you more recognizable when people follow up. It also adds a level of professionalism to your business cards or virtual profiles.

Pro Tip: Incorporate your headshot into your follow-up emails after networking events to help people easily recall your face and name.

5. Builds Trust with Your Audience

A professional headshot helps build trust by presenting you as approachable and competent. Whether you're connecting with potential clients, collaborators, or employers, a polished photo reassures them that you're someone they can rely on.

Pro Tip: A smile or warm expression in your headshot can go a long way in making you appear approachable and trustworthy.

6. Shows Commitment to Your Career

Investing in a professional headshot shows you take your career seriously. It demonstrates that you're willing to invest in yourself and present yourself in the best possible light to clients, employers, or collaborators.

Pro Tip: A great headshot can boost your confidence, making you feel more prepared and professional in job searches, interviews, and networking.

7. Keeps Your Image Current

As trends and personal styles change, your headshot should reflect your current appearance and energy. If your photo is outdated or doesn’t capture who you are now, it may send the wrong message about your level of engagement and professionalism.

Pro Tip: Consider refreshing your headshot periodically to ensure that it aligns with who you are today.

8. Adapt to Different Platforms

A professional headshot can be tailored to fit different contexts. Whether you need a more formal look for LinkedIn or a more relaxed photo for personal branding on social media, a skilled photographer can provide multiple shots that suit your needs.

Pro Tip: Diversify your headshots to reflect different aspects of your professional persona without losing the quality that comes with a professional shoot.

9. Boosts Your Confidence

When you know you have a polished, professional headshot, it can boost your confidence in how you present yourself. This confidence shows in your interactions, whether online or in person, making a big difference in your professional and personal opportunities.

Pro Tip: Work with your photographer to capture your most authentic self, ensuring your headshot reflects both your personality and professionalism.

10. Professionals Know How to Bring Out the Best in You

Many people feel uncomfortable in front of a camera or aren’t sure how to look their best. This is where a professional photographer truly shines. They understand how to use lighting, angles, and background to create a flattering image, but they also provide invaluable guidance on posing and expression.

A professional photographer doesn’t just snap a picture—they coach you through the process to ensure you look confident and approachable. They understand that the right pose, expression, and body language can make all the difference in creating a headshot that stands out. Often, people don’t know how to position themselves for the camera, and this can lead to awkward, stiff poses or forced expressions. A good photographer will offer direction to help you relax, engage with the camera, and project the qualities you want to convey—whether it's authority, warmth, or creativity.

They might suggest subtle adjustments to your posture or smile that completely change the vibe of the photo, making you look more natural and comfortable. This level of expertise is what sets professional headshots apart from quick snaps or amateur shots. When you work with a pro, you’re not just getting a picture—you’re getting a carefully crafted image that represents you at your best.

Pro Tip: Choose a photographer who takes the time to understand what you want your headshot to communicate. This way, they can direct you to achieve a result that truly reflects who you are.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

A professional headshot is not just about looking good—it’s about making a statement. It tells the world that you’re serious, confident, and ready for new opportunities. Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn profile, building a personal brand, or simply wanting to feel more confident in your professional image, now is the time to invest in a headshot that truly represents you.

Click below to book your headshot session and let us guide you through the process of creating an image that will open doors for you!