Headshot Tips: Background | 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 provide headshot tips: background.  See more headshots in the gallery.  Contact me to book your professional headshot today!

Headshot Tips: Background

The background or setting for your headshot gives it a certain look and feel.  The studio setting tends to be a little more formal but also more versatile when using the headshot.  An outdoor setting is more casual but restricts the usage of that headshot a bit.  The decision regarding background depends on your ultimate use for the image.  If you need the headshot for marketing materials, it might be best to go with a studio setting.  If you’ll be using the headshot for social media, an outdoor setting would be perfect!  When we plan your headshot session, we’ll discuss background and what makes sense for you.  I can send you a gallery of examples for each setting so you can see the possibilities.

Headshot Examples

The following represent the options available for backgrounds.  If you have an idea for setting, let’s discuss that and how it fits with the company branding and image.  A white background is clean and simple and can be used for a ton of different marketing materials and manipulated as needed for different pieces.  The grey option can be light or dark, depending on your needs.  If your brand uses a certain color, consider incorporating that color into the headshots.  The outdoors make a beautiful backdrop for headshots.  A virtual background is my newest favorite because the headshot is photographed on a studio white background.  It looks modern and bright with some depth and can be replicated for new employees easily.  The office environmental is another favorite if you have a good space in your office (best to do a walk-through with your photographer to determine).

WHITE BACKGROUND

man's professional headshot on white background

Full Body Pose executive leadership image

professional headshot on white background

casual headshot on white background

 

GREY BACKGROUND

headshot of man on grey backgroundheadshot of woman on grey background grey suit

headshot of woman in glasses on grey background

woman's headshot on grey backgroundman's headshot on grey background

professional headshotswoman in suit headshot

GREY TEXTURED BACKGROUND

Headshot Tips BackgroundProfessional HeadshotProfessional headshots

COLOR BACKGROUND

corporate headshot on blue background

man in blue suit on dark blue background

Natural light headshot

 

OUTDOOR SETTING

outdoor headshot

VIRTUAL BACKGROUND

professional headshot on virtual backgroundprofessional headshot virtual backgroundwoman's professional headshot on virtual background

women headshot profoessionalcorporate headshots for womenman's corporate headshot

 

OFFICE ENVIRONMENTAL

 

office environmental headshotheadshot tips backgroundoffice environmental headshot for manheadshot tips background

 

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!

- INSTAGRAM -

@taraflanneryphotography

Here's how I can help you elevate your business next year 👇🏻

My branding sessions go far beyond “just photos.” We’ll start with a personalized consultation to talk through your brand colors, style, and message — then plan a session that feels intentional, aligned, and true to you.

Each branding experience includes professional hair and makeup services and multiple looks, so you can capture different sides of your brand — from approachable and friendly to bold and confident.

You can choose from two session options designed to fit your goals:

✨ Basic Branding Session: 3 looks, 9 final images, and 1.5 hours of photography.

✨ Premium Branding Session: 4 looks, 12 final images, 2 hours of photography, plus a branding video to bring your story to life.

By the end, you’ll walk away with a full collection of cohesive, high-quality visuals that represent your next chapter — confident, polished, and unmistakably you.

If 2026 is your year to scale, let’s make sure your photos reflect it.

📩 Message me to start planning your branding session — I’ll take care of the details.

📝 Grab my FREE branding guide with the link in my bio!

#brandingtips #businessbranding #brandingphotographer #brandingsession
Let’s talk about it 👇🏻

So many people wait to book their headshot because they feel like they need to “fix” something first.

Lose a little weight. Clear their skin. Feel more confident. Look more put-together.

But here’s the truth:

The version of you that exists right now is already worthy of being seen.

The best headshots don’t come from perfection — they come from authenticity.

Real expression. Real connection. Real confidence… even if you don’t quite feel it walking in.

During every session, I guide you through posing, lighting, and expression so you feel relaxed, supported, and comfortable — because that’s when the magic happens. You don’t have to know what to do. You don’t have to feel “ready.” You just have to show up.

✨ If you want a headshot that feels like you, I’d love to help.

Click the link in my bio to schedule your consultation OR to grab my FREE headshot session guide for more information!

#headshottips #corporateheadshots #headshotphotographerhoustontx #professionalheadshots
If you’re hosting a holiday party this year… there’s something you don’t want to overlook 👇🏻

Your team is already together, dressed up, and in great spirits — which makes it the perfect moment to update everyone’s headshots. No juggling schedules, no tracking people down, no pulling anyone out of meetings. Just quick, polished photos your team can pop in for, and then head right back to the party.

It’s an easy way to add value to your celebration and give your employees something they’ll actually use heading into the new year. And with my streamlined event setup (and zero admin work for you), the process is effortless from start to finish.

✨ If you’re planning a holiday party, let’s talk about adding on-site headshots.
Click the link in my bio to schedule your consultation.

#corporateevents #corporateeventphotographer #headshotphotographer #corporateheadshots
- Do this instead 👇🏻
 
  Most people focus on their outfit or expression — but your background plays a huge role in how others perceive you. It sets the tone for your personal brand before you even introduce yourself.
 
  Your space tells clients what working with you feels like.
 
  Here’s how different backdrops communicate different messages:
 
 🏢 Corporate office → traditional, established, and formal.
 
 🌿 Natural outdoor setting → approachable, creative, and warm.
 
 🏙️ Urban or architectural environment → modern, edgy, and innovative.
 
 🎨 Solid color or studio backdrop → clean, versatile, and timeless.
 
  Even subtle shifts in tone, texture, or color can completely change the mood of your headshot — which is why the location is just as important as the lighting or pose.
 
  And here’s the exciting part: with the help of professional AI editing, you don’t have to choose just one. We can create on-brand variations that fit different platforms — like LinkedIn, your website, or your marketing materials — while keeping your headshot cohesive and authentic.
 
  Because when every detail works together — from your expression to your background — your headshot becomes more than a picture. It becomes your first impression.
 
 📩 Ready to plan your next session? Message me and let’s find the backdrop that tells your brand story best.

#headshotlocations #headshottips #corporateheadshots #photolocationshoustontx
Here’s how to fix that 👇🏻

If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable in front of the camera — especially when someone else is taking your picture — you’re not alone. It’s completely normal.

Taking professional photos can feel surprisingly vulnerable. You’re being seen, literally, and that can stir up a lot of nerves.

But here’s the thing: feeling awkward shouldn’t stop you from getting photos you love. My job as your photographer is to help ease that discomfort so you can show up as your best, most authentic self.

Here’s how I help clients do just that:

1️⃣ The Consultation

Before your session, we’ll chat about your goals, style, and how you want to be seen. I also connect clients with trusted stylists who can help you choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable (if needed).

2️⃣ A Calm, Supportive Environment

Whether we’re in my studio, your office, or an outdoor location, my priority is to create a space where you can relax, laugh, and genuinely enjoy the process. When you’re at ease, it always shows in your photos.

3️⃣ A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

Get plenty of rest, hydrate, and plan your wardrobe ahead of time. When you feel prepared, you walk into your session with a completely different kind of confidence.

Because the truth is — professional photos can feel vulnerable, but with the right guidance, they can also be empowering. 💛

📩 Ready to feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera? Message me to schedule your session today.

#professionalheadshots #corporateheadshots #headshotphotographer #headshottips

- STAY IN TOUCH -

Serving the Greater Houston, Texas Area

tara@taraflannery.com

713-412-5437

Facebook logo
Instagram logo
Pinterest logo
Linked In logo

FloDesk FREE STYLE GUIDE

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.