📸 Headshot Prep Guide: Look Confident & Camera-Ready

Your headshot is your first impression — whether on LinkedIn, a company bio, or your personal brand. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to feel prepared, look polished, and leave with a photo you’re proud to share.

🤝 Why Preparation Matters

Think of your headshot as a digital handshake — a quick but powerful introduction. Whether you’re an executive, entrepreneur, or creative professional, the right image builds trust before a single conversation begins.

When you’re prepared — mentally and physically — your confidence shines through. From choosing the right wardrobe to knowing what background suits your brand, these small choices lead to great results.

🌟 The Power of a Great Headshot

A strong headshot works for you across platforms — LinkedIn, resumes, speaking profiles, press releases, and more. It conveys:

• ✔️ Professionalism and credibility
• ✔️ Confidence and approachability
• ✔️ A sense of who you are before you speak

Need inspiration? Check out LinkedIn profiles of people in your industry to see how much a great image elevates a first impression.

📍 Choosing the Right Setting

Where you shoot your headshot sets the tone. A neutral studio background works great for corporate settings, while environmental portraits feel more personal.

Here in San Francisco, some favorite locations for headshots include:

• 🌉 Crissy Field – Natural light, iconic backdrop, and soft tones
• 🏙 Ferry Building – Clean architectural lines and soft urban elegance
• 🌿 Palace of Fine Arts – Timeless, romantic, and refined

Not sure which fits you? I help clients choose a background that matches their tone — formal, relaxed, creative, or classic.

🧥 What to Wear for Headshots

Clean, simple, and fitted always wins. You want the focus on your expression — not on patterns, logos, or busy accessories.

• 🎽 Stick to solid colors — navy, gray, black, or jewel tones
• 💄 Go with natural, polished grooming and minimal shine
• 🧳 Bring 2–3 outfit options to the session

Need wardrobe help? I provide a prep guide before every session. Or explore inspiration from Pinterest headshot boards.

📸 How I Help You Feel Comfortable

Don’t worry — I guide you every step of the way. My headshot sessions are relaxed and supportive. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, I help you find your best angles and natural expressions.

Before we shoot, we’ll talk about your goals: Is this for work? A portfolio? Personal branding? The more I know, the better we tailor your session.

💬 Final Tips Before Your Shoot

• 🕒 Schedule your session when you feel energized (mornings work well)
• 🧴 Bring blotting paper, lip balm, or a small touch-up kit
• 🧠 Think about how you want to be seen — confident, creative, friendly?

I’ll take care of the lighting, posing, and background — you just show up as you.

📅 Ready to Book Your Headshot?

Let’s create a headshot that works for you — professional, natural, and uniquely yours.

Book your session with Chris Conner Photography →