Time to Update Your Headshot for the New Year?

Time to Update Your Headshot for the New Year?

As we start off the new year, most of us think about the things that we have been neglecting: exercise routines, healthier eating habits, home organization, etc.  It is a great time to get your house in order, so to speak.  For business owners and for those who are active on LinkedIn, a new headshot may be on that New Year’s resolution list.  But how do you know when it is time to update your headshot?  Below are some signs that it might be time for an update.

Your headshot is more than 5 years old:

As time marches on, it can be tempting to hold on to our younger selves.  But, when you are presenting yourself professionally, you want to be as truthful and authentic as possible.  So, your photo should reflect how you look NOW.

Your headshot looks dated or out of fashion:

Back in the 80s and 90s, muslin backgrounds were very common.  Even though they are still used today, I happen to hate muslin backgrounds (sorry folks) because I think they look very outdated.  Another trend from the 80s was using a softening filter on the lens.  This creates a soft effect that is reminiscent of glamour shots!  No bueno.  If you are wearing trendy glasses, clothes, or jewelry in your current headshot that you no longer wear, that could be another indication that it is time for a new headshot.

You have started a new endeavor:

If you are changing your career or starting a new business, it is a great time to evaluate whether or not you are communicating the right message with your headshot.  For instance, if you are striking out on your own as a life coach after a career in the corporate world, you may want to have a headshot that looks more dynamic than a classic corporate headshot.  When I talk with headshot clients about what they are looking for, I ask them to tell me about what they do and to describe their brand (where applicable).  When designing a photo session, it is crucial to understand the look and feel that a client is hoping to achieve.

If you are in the market for a new headshot, I have a home studio in Apex that is perfect for headshots.  I also travel with my studio equipment for larger commercial projects in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and the entire Triangle area.