5 Business Headshot Mistakes to Avoid | Houston Headshot Photographer

Tara Flannery is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP)  and Craftsman based in Houston, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in corporate headshots and can give you 5 business headshot mistakes to avoid.  See more headshots in the gallery.  Contact me to book your professional headshot today!

5 Business Headshot Mistakes to Avoid

Visuals are an integral part of making a lasting first impression online. When potential clients, business partners, or employers want to put a face to your resume, what would they see?

A professional headshot session is a sound business investment for a number of reasons, but only if you use it to your advantage.

Here are the mistakes you should avoid.

  1. Taking the Photo Yourself

You could try and place your phone on a stand and take a few headshots yourself, but chances are, they won’t look as professional as you’re hoping. Investing in a professional headshot session is convenient and well worth the cost if you’re serious about building your brand.

  1. Selecting the Wrong Outfit

What you wear to your session can have an impact on the end result. It’s important to choose an outfit that matches your personality and that you would wear on a day-to-day basis. This is not the time to try a completely new look unless you’re rebranding. It’s also better to choose more than one outfit just in case.

  1. Not Practicing Your Facial Expressions

The last thing you want is to receive your headshot photos only to realize you have a forced smile that makes you look fake. It helps to practice your smile and facial expressions prior to your session to ensure the best results.

  1. Using the Wrong Background

The background of your headshots can be anything you want, but it’s better to not choose something outdated or distracting – all the focus should be on you. The background can be interesting and help tell your story but should never detract from the main subject of the photo.

  1. Following Trends

Ideally, your headshots should last at least 2 years, meaning, they will be relevant for at least 2 years. This won’t be the case if you jump on board with a trend that will be irrelevant and unrelatable in 6 months.

Now that you know what to avoid, you can start your search for a headshot photographer who knows how to showcase you professionally online.

Branding Session

I had a fantastic branding session with Heightened Leaders!  Megan and Caylee brought several outfits each, props, and positive vibes – they were ready to go!  I’m so thrilled with the variety of looks and images that we were able to capture in just a short time in The Creative Photographer studio.  I’ll definitely be booking there again.

5 Headshot Mistakes to Avoidheadshots and branding Houstonbranding session Houston5 Headshot Mistakes to AvoidProfessional Headshots and Branding HoustonHouston Headshots and Branding for Small Businesses

Tara Flannery is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP)  and Craftsman based in Houston, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in corporate headshots.  See more headshots in the gallery.  Contact me to book your professional headshot today!

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@taraflanneryphotography

If the thought of “what should I bring?” stresses you out before a photoshoot… you’re not alone.

This is something I walk every client through so they feel confident walking in.

My expert advice? 3-5 outfits is PERFECT! And we can plan together in your consultation.

👇🏼 Drop your other questions about headshots or branding photography below!
I love my job though... I promise! 😂🫶🏻

Rearranging entire spaces to create the perfect setup that actually matches my client's brand... and gives them somewhere comfortable to sit while we work.

Worth it? Always. 
Great for my back? Not so much.

This is the behind-the-scenes nobody warns you about. 🤍

I specialize in professional headshots and branding. Click the link below to schedule a consultation with me ⬇️

🔗 https://linktr.ee/taraflanneryphotography
Not sure what to wear for your branding session? Let me help you out...

(Because wardrobe stress is real, and I've got you. 🤍)

Want the full breakdown? Grab my free Branding Guide—link in bio.
If you’ve ever wondered what actually happens during a branding session… this is it 😅

It’s not just about getting great photos — it’s about creating an experience where you can show up, relax, and let your personality come through.

Thinking about your own branding session?

🔗 Grab my Branding Guide and click the link in my bio to start planning.
The truth is...

Different images serve different purposes. The photo you use for LinkedIn might not be the same one you use for a speaking engagement, your website, or a personal brand feature.

Your audience, your industry, your role, and the message you want to communicate all influence how your images should look and feel.

That’s why thoughtful, intentional branding photography makes such a difference. When your photos align with your goals, they start working for you — helping you build trust and credibility before you ever say a word.

If you're in need of a headshot refresh, I'm your girl 😉

🔗 Click the link in my bio to get started!
The difference between good branding photos and great ones..?

Your wardrobe strategy.

Every outfit in a branding session should have a purpose. Different looks help you show different sides of your brand — and give you images you can use across your website, social media, speaking engagements, and more.

Carrie absolutely nailed it with her wardrobe choices for this session. ✨

Thinking about your own branding session?

🔗 Click the link in my bio to start planning one with me.

📖 While you're there, grab a copy of my FREE Branding Guide!

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Serving the Greater Houston, Texas Area

tara@taraflannery.com

713-412-5437

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Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers of America PPA.
Tara is a Certified Professional Photographer.
Tara is a member of TPPA Texas Professional Photographer's Association.
Tara has earned her Master of Photography degree.
Tara has earned her Photographic Craftsman certification.
Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers Guild of Houston PPGH.