Does the friendly headshot win? Houston Headshot Photographer

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

Does the friendly headshot win?

Yes, absolutely, the friendly headshot wins every time.  The professional headshot is potentially the most important tool for introducing yourself to new customers, clients, patients, and business partners.  In today’s digital marketplace, your online presence is vitally important.  And with the Covid pandemic, it’s even more important to have a great headshot.  When you use a headshot on your website, marketing materials, and social media, it’s important to be friendly and welcoming.  That’s how people relate to people.  It’s the psychology of making a connection with another human being.  If you appear friendly and welcoming in your headshot, that connection is made more easily and with more confidence.  I’ve always promoted the friendly headshot with only slight variations for a subject’s industry and role.  However, even in this article from FindLaw, lawyers should remain friendly.

Stern or friendly? Go with friendly, hands down. Smile, at least a little bit. A forbidding look might communicate authority, but to a non-lawyer, it also says “I will talk down to you.”

Similarly, an article from the University of Washington, confirms that we should be smiling in our headshots.

Your job: Look approachable. Time after time, I notice this as a key common denominator separating good profile shots from bad ones.

So, the bottom line is smile for your headshot.  Go ahead and practice in the mirror a few times before your headshot session and you’ll be ready to greet your newest connections!

Headshot Examples

The latest from the smiling headshot galleries…

Does the friendly headshot win?outdoor environmental headshot for magazineprofessional headshot friendly professional 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!

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@taraflanneryphotography

We are on Instagram
But in reality...👇🏼

With group composites, each team member is photographed individually and then seamlessly combined into a polished, professional group photo. When someone new joins or a team member leaves, you simply update the composite—no need to gather everyone for a brand-new shoot!

That’s why more professionals are making the switch. Here’s why group composites are the smarter choice over traditional team photos:

💰 Cost Savings

- No more expensive re-shoots! Just update individual headshots instead of redoing the entire team photo.
- Skip venue rentals—everyone is photographed separately, so there’s no need for a big studio or location booking.
- Long-term savings make group composites the best option for growing teams.

🎨 A More Polished Look

- No more awkward expressions or bad posture—each headshot is carefully posed and edited for a flawless final result.
- Consistent lighting and framing create a sleek, professional image.
- Customize the background to match your brand for a cohesive, high-end look.

🔄 Built-In Future Flexibility

- Need an update? Just add or remove individual headshots—no need to gather the whole team again.
- Keep branding consistent across your website, marketing, and social media.
- Save time and avoid scheduling headaches—employees take their headshots at their convenience.

Want a team photo that evolves with you? Let’s chat! 📩 Book a free consultation today!
Here's my answer...

I hear this all the time—clients wondering if I can take off a few years, a few pounds, or smooth out a feature they’re self-conscious about.

And the answer?

I’ve got you! 💪

With years of experience in lighting, posing, and post-production, I know how to highlight your best features in a natural, flattering way.

My goal isn’t to make you look like someone else—it’s to capture *you* at your absolute best. The most confident, radiant, and *authentic* version of yourself. ✨

So trust the process, and let’s create headshots and portraits that make you feel amazing! 📸

Send me a message or visit my site to book your FREE Consultation!
Why You Need Both 👇🏻

When it comes to your acting or modeling portfolio, versatility is key. Here’s why having BOTH styles can open doors:

🎬 Theatrical Headshots – Think moody, dark, mysterious, and serious. These photos highlight your ability to take on intense, dramatic roles. Casting directors are looking for depth, emotion, and that “I can play the lead in a thriller” energy.

📺 Commercial Headshots – The “selling Cheerios” vibe—bright, happy, and approachable. These shots showcase your friendly, relatable side, perfect for commercials, lifestyle brands, and roles that require charisma and warmth.

✨ Pro Tip: Your headshot is your first audition. Make sure it tells the story you want casting directors to see.

If you're ready to update your portfolio - let's connect! 

Send me a message or visit my site to book your FREE consultation!

#modelingheadshots #headshotsforactors #professionalheadshots
3 tips for natural, authentic senior poses 👇🏻

Most seniors feel nervous in front of the camera because they don’t know what to do with their hands, their feet, or even their face. That’s where I come in. 🙋🏼‍♀️ 

Here are 3 quick poses that always work:

1️⃣ Relax your hands - soft, loose fingers look natural in every photo.
2️⃣ Shift your weight - try putting it on one foot for a more casual stance.
3️⃣ Play with movement - adjusting your hair, walking, or laughing can make all the difference!

From the first click to the final shot, I’ll guide you every step of the way to ensure your photos reflect the best version of you. No awkward, stiff poses here- just real, confident, you. 😉

📸 It’s not too late to book your consultation. Let’s create senior photos you’ll absolutely love. Click the link in my bio to get started!

- 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.