Personal Branding: How Your Headshot Shapes 2025

As we step into a fresh year full of new opportunities, there’s no better time to reflect on your personal branding and ask yourself one critical question: Does your current headshot truly represent who you are and where you’re headed?

5 Secrets to Headshot Posing: How Photographers Guide You

When it comes to professional headshots, most people feel one overwhelming emotion: nervousness. “I’m not a model,” you might think. “How am I supposed to know how to pose?” That’s where your photographer comes in. The truth is, headshot posing isn’t your job—it’s mine. As a professional headshot and branding photographer, I help my clients pose in ways that highlight their best features while conveying the message they want their headshot to communicate.

7 Ways Professional Branding Beats DIY Branding Every Time

When it comes to creating a personal or business brand that truly stands out, your visuals are often the first impression people get. While it might be tempting to save money and try DIY branding, the results can be underwhelming, inconsistent, or even damaging to your reputation. As a professional branding photographer, I’ve seen firsthand why investing in professional branding is a game-changer for individuals and businesses.

Senior Sportraits: 5 EPIC Tips for Enhanced Sports Photos

As a photographer specializing in senior sportraits, I’ve had the privilege of capturing some truly incredible moments for student-athletes. Senior sportraits—senior portraits tailored specifically to athletes—are a unique way to celebrate this important milestone while showcasing the sports that have been such a defining part of a student’s high school experience. Here’s a closer look at what makes senior sportraits so special, and why hiring a professional photographer for these sessions can make all the difference.

Branding Photographer: 7 Essential Qualities to Look For

When it comes to capturing the essence of your brand, choosing the right branding photographer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. As a professional branding photographer, I know how crucial it is to have images that not only reflect your brand’s unique personality but also resonate with your audience. Here’s my guide to finding a branding photographer who truly understands your vision and can bring it to life.

Tara flannery photography specializes in Headshots and branding, family portraits, and senior portraits. Tara is a member of the Professional photographer's guild of houston , texas professional photographer's association (tppa), professional photographers of america (ppa) and is a certified professional photographer (cpp) and photographic craftsman. servING the greater houston, texas area and based in the woodlands / conroe. contact me for more information or to schedule a session!

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@taraflanneryphotography

When you show up like a pro, doors start opening.

We wrapped this session with a simple truth: “Kyle’s going to go off and do great things.”

And he will—because he’s putting his best foot forward, starting with how he presents himself. A high-quality headshot might seem like a small thing, but it can make a powerful first impression that opens doors to new jobs, clients, or collaborations.

When you look the part, you feel the part—and the world responds accordingly.

📸 Need to refresh your headshot? Send me a message and let's make it happen!

#headshots
Ever wondered why your headshots look flat instead of flattering? 👀

It all comes down to lighting. In the studio, I use one main light source and strategically placed reflectors to bounce light and fill in shadows. This creates that soft, even glow that makes you look approachable and polished—while still keeping a touch of shadow to add shape and dimension to your face.

Flat lighting can make your features disappear. The right lighting makes you stand out. ✨

Ready to finally love your headshots?

📩 DM me or click the link in bio to book your session today.

#headshots #thewoodlandstxphotographer #headshotphotographer #headshottips
Here’s why 👇🏻

Most people wait for the “perfect” moment—when they’ve lost a few pounds, changed their hair, or finally feel more confident. But here’s the truth: there will always be something you’re waiting on.

Your headshot isn’t about some future version of you—it’s about showing up confidently in the season you’re in today. Because this version of you? The one leading your team, meeting clients, building your business—that’s the version people want to connect with.

When your photo feels authentic and current, it builds instant trust. Outdated or staged images can actually do the opposite, making it harder for people to recognize the real you.

So don’t wait for “someday.” The right time to show up as your best self is always now.

📸 Ready for a refresh? Let’s create a headshot that feels true to you. 

DM me to book your session.

#headshotupdate #headshotphotographer #thewoodlandsheadshots #professionalheadshots
🚫 Let’s talk wardrobe no-nos for headshots.

I want you to look polished, confident, and distraction-free in your photos—and sometimes that means skipping certain outfit choices.

For men:

❌ No undershirts peeking through

❌ If you’re wearing a tie, make sure your shirt buttons all the way up

❌ If it doesn’t, we’re ditching the tie

For women:

❌ Skip the sleeveless tops—your arms will compete with your face for attention

✅ A sleeve (even short) helps keep the focus where it belongs—on YOU

The goal? A clean, intentional look that draws people in and keeps their attention right where it should be—your face.

📸 Save this before your session so you can show up ready and confident.

#headshots #headshotphotography #HoustonHeadshots #whattowearforheadshots
Let's talk... ⬇️

If your headshot isn’t working on your website, LinkedIn, or social media...

👉🏻 it’s probably not the image.

👉🏻 it’s the crop.

Yep, even the most beautiful photo can fall flat if it’s not framed for the platform it’s on.

Here are 3 common cropping mistakes I see all the time (and how to fix them):

1️⃣ Too Close – When there’s no breathing room, the image feels cramped and overly intense.

2️⃣ Too Far – If we can’t clearly see your face, we lose the connection instantly.

3️⃣ Wrong Shape for the Platform – That rectangle you uploaded to LinkedIn? It just became a circle... and cut off half your head.

✨ The fix? Intentional cropping before you upload—so your headshot looks polished, professional, and approachable everywhere.

Want a headshot that works across all platforms? Let’s create one that does just that.

📩 DM me to plan your session or visit the link in bio to learn more.

- STAY IN TOUCH -

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.