You only have one chance to make a first impression. In person, a first impression will be made in 3-5 seconds. With Facebook, Linkedin your website & blog your profile photo is also a first impression. And you can’t fake it.
Over the last few weeks, I’ve had quite a few branding and headshot sessions. I started really thinking about these sessions and want to share some things for you to consider if you’re contemplating options for ensuring you’re personal brand is making a great first impression.
Things to consider for your headshot:
1. Does the headshot accurately represent who you are? The headshot of today is fresh, casual and accessible. It should be a verified stamp of approval of your personal brand. Whether we like it or not, and as conveyed in this Newsweek article, we are judged on our appearance.
2. It should be a natural pose making you approachable and professional at the same time. Take your time until you feel comfortable and that your being yourself in front of the camera. A natural smile and a casual pose always make great digital personal brands.
3. Always hire a professional photographer. We like taking photos with our mobile devices, and those are likely to be casual and natural but the quality of a professional portrait can not be faked. I know I’m biased, but it’s a small investment to make in yourself and how you’re representing “you” to the public.
4. Your photo should be updated every 3-5 years, or if there’s a physical change in your appearance, i.e. change hair color from blonde to dark brown. A current headshot conveys relevance and how important investing in “you” is. Staying current on trends, personally and professionally is important and something professional photographers understand and share with customers.
Remember: If you’re going to judge a book by its cover, make the cover something professional yet memorable.
Here are some recent shots I did of Carol Lang LMT of Rock & Roll hands. She offers on site professional massage therapy to bands and preforming artists. I think we did a great job of conveying her as approachable with a rock & roll edge. Including a model & the massage table will also give her website a visual description of what she offers. You can reach her at rocknrollhands@gmail.com
1 comment:
These are excellent tips for any person in need of a profile photo! These photos specifically are great for her profession...you're right they show a strong personality that goes perfectly with the rock n roll industry. Great job!
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