Headshots

Before you start 

• Make sure you have your subject’s consent before taking photographs. 
• Clean your camera lens to avoid blurry images. 
• Ask subjects to wear clothing without visible logos, text, or distracting patterns. 
• Choose a clean, simple, and uncluttered background. 

Positioning and framing your subject 

• Frame the subject from the chest upwards. 
• Ask the subject to look directly at the camera. 
• Position subject away from walls or backgrounds to create depth and avoid harsh shadows. 
• Angle their body slightly away from the camera to create a natural and relaxed appearance. 
• Leave a small amount of space around their head and shoulders so they do not fill the frame completely. 
• Always shoot vertically. 

Composition tips 

Good composition helps create balanced and engaging images. 

• Choose a simple background free from distractions, while still providing visual interest (eg outdoors, natural office settings, or textured walls rather than plain white walls)  
• Make sure the subject is clearly the focus of the image. 
• Take photos at eye level: 
  • Shooting at eye level helps create a natural connection with the viewer. 
  • Avoid shooting significantly above or below the subject unless intentionally styled.  

Lighting 

Lighting has the biggest impact on how flattering and professional a headshot appears. 

Best practice 

• Use natural light whenever possible. 
• When indoors, position subjects facing a window. 
• Use soft, diffused lighting rather than direct sunlight. 
• Aim for lighting that comes from roughly 45 degrees above and in front of the subject. 

Avoid 

• Placing the main light source behind the subject. 
• Strong overhead lighting, which can create shadows under the eyes. 

Using your phone 

• Use Portrait Mode if available. 
• Tap the subject’s face on your screen to ensure correct focus and exposure. 
• Avoid using digital zoom. Instead, move closer to maintain image quality. 
• Hold your phone steady and keep the camera at the subject’s eye level.