What is a Headshot? | Houston Headshot Photographer

What is a Headshot?

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

Headshot Definition

According to Wikipedia, “A head shot or headshot is a modern portrait where the focus is on the person. The term is usually applied for professional profile images on social media, the ‘about us page’ or a corporate website and promotional pictures of actors, models, and authors.”

Corporate head shots serve a variety of purposes:[3]

  • LinkedIn personal profiles as well as publisher profiles
  • Facebook
  • About us page
  • Professional Resume
  • Corporate catalogs, brochures and advertising collateral
  • Company publications and websites, internal and external
  • Press releases and other announcements
  • Marketing materials
  • Articles and newspapers
  • Author pages

Branding headshots may be a corporate or business headshot with the difference being that the image is designed to convey the individual’s or a corporate branding identity. A corporation may choose a streamlined background for all its headshots while an individual may choose an action, experience or background objects to identify his or her brand. Large corporations, firms and/or agencies will usually have a manual for the type and style of headshot to be photographed.

Headshots for Marie

Marie scheduled an Executive Headshot Session after winning an auction that I donated for the Greater Houston German Shepherd Dog Rescue.  She elected to have hair and makeup done.  Roxana came to the studio for headshot hair and makeup and we were ready for the session!  Marie brought a few different wardrobe selections so we started with the standard grey studio background.  We moved to a natural light setup with her light blue jacket and finished with a clean white backdrop and her red top and black jacket.  She got several different looks as we varied backgrounds, wardrobe, and glasses.  Marie now has a variety of images that she can use for her company and social media profiles.

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Tara Flannery is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) based in The Woodlands and Conroe, 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

Let’s be real—getting your photo taken can feel super awkward.
You’re standing in front of a camera, trying to look natural… and it doesn’t always come naturally. That’s where I come in.

My goal isn’t just to take a great headshot—it’s to make sure you feel great while we’re doing it.

🗣 I keep things casual and conversational so you’re not stuck in your head.
🙌🏼 I give real-time encouragement to help you feel supported and at ease.
📲 And I stream your images to an iPad so you can see exactly how things are going—and speak up if something feels off.

Because the best photos don’t happen when you’re perfectly posed.
They happen when you’re relaxed, confident, and feel like yourself.

Ready to finally love your headshot?
Contact me to schedule a session designed to make you feel good and look good. 🤍

#professionalheadshots #howtobeconfidentoncamera #confident #headshottips
What is your headshot or branding saying about you?

Because whether you realize it or not… your image is already telling a story.
The question is — is it the right one?

Your photo is often your first impression: on LinkedIn, your website, your business card, even your email signature. And people will make assumptions based on what they see.

✔️ Does your headshot show confidence and approachability?
✔️ Does it reflect your personality, values, and professionalism?
✔️ Or is it outdated, unclear, or totally misaligned with where you're headed?

Your image should tell your story before you even speak.
Make sure it’s the one you want people to hear.

Let’s capture photos that reflect the real you — with intention, authenticity, and style.

📸 Contact me to schedule your branding or headshot session!
How to feel confident in photos 👇🏻

Let’s be honest — not everyone loves being in front of the camera. But confidence in your photos isn’t about being a model… it’s about feeling like yourself.

Here are a few ways to boost your confidence before your next session:

✨ Wear something that makes you feel good.
Choose outfits that fit well, reflect your style, and make you feel like the best version of you.

✨ Practice posture + breathing.
Good posture instantly improves how you carry yourself — and deep breaths help you relax and release tension.

✨ Shift your mindset.
Instead of focusing on how you look, focus on what the photo represents — your personality, your story, your growth.

✨ Work with a photographer who gets it.
That’s where I come in. I’ll guide you through every step of the process — from what to wear to how to pose — so you feel confident, comfortable, and genuinely you in every shot.

📸 Let’s create photos you actually love. Contact me to chat or book your session.
Not sure how formal your headshot should be? Start here. 👇

Your outfit plays a huge role in the story your headshot tells — and choosing the right look helps you show up with clarity and confidence.

Here are 5 levels of formality for men’s headshots and when to use each one:

1️⃣ Very Formal
Suit jacket + button-down shirt + tie
This look builds instant trust and authority.

2️⃣ Semi-formal (No Tie)
Suit jacket + button-down (no tie)
Polished, approachable, and confident.

3️⃣ Business Casual
Button-down shirt, no jacket
Comfortable and true to your everyday brand.

4️⃣ Branded Apparel
Button-down or polo with company logo
Keeps things clean, professional, and consistent — especially for team headshots.

5️⃣ Casual
Fitted t-shirt or polo (no branding)
Still professional — just more relaxed and innovative.

✨ BONUS TIPS:
– Stick to solid colors
– Make sure clothes are clean, pressed & well-fitted
– Avoid loud patterns or busy logos (unless branded)
– Bring a backup shirt or jacket to your session

🎯 The goal? Choose the level that fits your industry, role, and personality — and Tara will help you photograph it perfectly.

📆 DM to book TODAY!

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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.