Have you ever thought about the image you show to the world to promote yourself and/or your business? In this digital age, it is all about your online presence. Social media sites like Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn all have profile pictures. Future customers, bosses, friends and family will see your photo and associate you with that picture. It is the first thing they see and the last thing they remember. Like that old saying goes, "you only have one chance to make a first impression." If you'd like to make it a good impression, good quality headshots go a long way in doing just that. I suggest researching professional photographers in your area that do headshots. Look at their online portfolio to see if their style matches the look you are going for. You want to make sure they take a variety for you to choose from.

Now on to a few tips for what to wear for your professional headshots.

For everyone:

• Pick clothes that have solid colors. Avoid busy patterns that can distract the eye such as grid like squares or herringbone patterns.
• Avoid logos if you can help it. Small logos that blend are okay or if it's your business logo that you want to display.
• Avoid black and white, unless you are layering it with something else. All white tends to wash you out and make the image look flat.
• Make sure your outfit fits and is comfortable on you and free of wrinkles and/or lint.
• Dress like you would if you were meeting a potential new client or employer.
• Don't get a haircut right beforehand. Sometimes they don't turn out as planned.
• Try to relax and have fun. A good professional photographer should be able to put you at ease and make it an enjoyable experience.

Female business professionals:

• You may want to avoid sleeveless or short sleeve blouses as this draws attention to your bare arms.
• Try not to wear large jewelry as it can distract from your face. Small earrings or a simple necklace is all you need.
• Avoid turtlenecks as they can crease skin in distracting ways.
• Have your makeup professionally done if you can. If you can't, avoid shimmery powders, highlighters and eyeshadows. Shine is not what you are after for your professional headshot. You may even want to bring some matte finishing powder to touch yourself up right before your shoot.

Professional Headshots & Personal BrandingProfessional Headshots and Personal Branding in the Columbus Ohio region.

I don't normally work with babies and kids since I mainly shoot seniors, but I occasionally make an exception. This little one was a perfect angel for her shoot. What a sweetie! Wish they were all this easy. Happy Holidays!