Why Professional Headshots Matter – And How to Take One with Your Phone (As a Last Resort)

Why Professional Headshots Matter – And How to Take One with Your Phone (As a Last Resort)

By Lisa Craig, Master Photographer

When it comes to creating a strong first impression, nothing beats a professionally taken headshot. Professional photographers understand the nuances of angles, lighting, and composition, which results in a much higher-quality image that truly represents your brand. A well-executed headshot shows potential clients that you've invested in quality, which can significantly elevate your trust factor.

It's also important to consider consistency, especially when it comes to team headshots. If everyone tries to take their own photos, it will be difficult to achieve a unified look across the board, and this can be glaringly obvious when these images are displayed together on your website or social media profiles.

However, if hiring a professional isn’t an option right now, here are some tips to help you take the best possible headshot with your cell phone. We recommend this as a last resort, and as soon as you're able, investing in professional headshots will always be your best bet for a polished, cohesive look.

1. Choose the Right Location

Your environment plays a significant role in the outcome of your headshot. Ideally, you want a clean, uncluttered background that won’t distract from your face. Look for a neutral-colored wall, or if you're outdoors, choose a natural backdrop like a garden or park, but avoid too much visual noise behind you.

• Tip: Avoid taking your headshot in busy locations. Simplicity is key when it comes to professional photos.

2. Find the Best Lighting

Lighting can make or break a photo. For headshots, natural light is often the most flattering, especially soft, diffused light. Look for windows that let in even lighting without harsh sunlight, or consider stepping outside on a slightly overcast day. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause harsh shadows on your face.

• Tip: If indoors, position yourself so the light source is in front of you, not behind, to avoid casting shadows. Soft window light or a well-lit room works wonders!

3. Set Up Your Phone

Even though you’re using a smartphone, there are a few settings you can adjust to maximize your photo quality. Turn on the grid feature in your camera settings to help frame your shot, and ensure that your phone is capturing at the highest possible resolution.

• Tip: Use the back camera instead of the front (selfie) camera. The back camera typically has a higher resolution, producing a clearer, sharper image.

4. Use a Tripod or Prop Up Your Phone

To avoid shaky or uneven photos, use a tripod or lean your phone against a stable surface at eye level. This will help ensure that your headshot is framed correctly and keeps your hands free, allowing for more natural, relaxed poses.

• Tip: If you don't have a tripod, stack some books, use a chair, or find a surface that keeps the phone steady at the right height. Also, consider using your phone’s timer or voice activation to capture the shot.



5. Framing the Shot

For headshots, the focus should be on your face, so you’ll want to frame the photo from the chest up. Ensure there is enough space above your head and your shoulders are evenly in the frame. Don't cut off the top of your head or leave too much blank space.

• Tip: Use the gridlines mentioned earlier to align your eyes along the top third of the frame—this helps create a balanced, professional composition.

6. Dress Professionally and Be Mindful of Colors

Your attire sets the tone for your headshot. Wear something professional and simple. Stick to solid colors or subtle patterns, and avoid loud or distracting prints. The goal is to keep the attention on your face, not your outfit.

• Tip: Choose clothing that contrasts well with the background. If you're in front of a white wall, opt for darker shades to create a nice contrast.

7. Focus on Your Expression

A headshot is all about showing your personality. A friendly, confident expression can go a long way. Relax your face, keep your posture upright, and think of something that makes you feel positive right before the shot—this can help bring out a more natural smile or expression.

• Tip: Try different facial expressions ranging from a slight smile to a more serious look. Take several shots to find the one that best represents you.

8. Editing and Retouching

Once you've taken your photos, don’t hesitate to use basic editing tools to enhance your image. Most smartphones have built-in photo editing options to adjust brightness, contrast, and sharpness. For more detailed retouching, apps like Snapseed or Lightroom Mobile can help clean up blemishes, balance lighting, or add subtle enhancements.

• Tip: Avoid over-editing. The goal is to look like the best version of yourself, not an overly retouched version.

9. Check Your Resolution

When sharing or uploading your headshot, ensure that the image is high-resolution and isn't compressed. Platforms like LinkedIn or professional websites often require specific dimensions, so be sure to double-check their guidelines before submitting your photo.

• Tip: Aim for an image that is at least 1000px wide to maintain clarity when it’s uploaded.

10. Practice Makes Perfect

It’s normal to take a few tries to get the perfect headshot. Don’t be discouraged if the first few photos don’t come out exactly how you envisioned. Take several shots from different angles, experiment with lighting and expressions, and keep practicing until you’re satisfied.

Final Thoughts

While a DIY headshot can work in a pinch, nothing compares to the polish and consistency that comes with a professional headshot. Professionals know how to bring out your best features, ensure consistent lighting, and create images that elevate your brand. If you're serious about making a lasting impression, investing in professional headshots is always the best choice.

At Lisa Craig Photography, we specialize in creating professional, personalized headshots that highlight your unique personality and help you stand out. We recommend booking a session with us to get the highest-quality images for your personal brand or business team. You'll love the results—and so will your clients.

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