How to be Confident in Headshots: 7 Tips to Make a Lasting Impression

Tara Flannery is a  Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Photographic Craftsman, and Master of Photography 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!

How to Be Confident in Headshots

You only have 7 seconds to make a great first impression, according to Forbes. In our digital-first world, this often means your online profile—especially your headshot—serves as the front line in professional interactions. A confident headshot not only captures your best self but also sets the stage for how potential clients, employers, and colleagues perceive you. Here, we’ll share seven expert tips to help you look confident in headshots, ensuring they open doors to opportunities.

How to look confident in headshots

Understand the Impact of a Headshot

A professional headshot does more than show your face; it’s a powerful tool for personal branding. It communicates your professionalism, the personality of your brand, and, most importantly, your confidence. Effective headshots convey to viewers that you value how you present yourself and your business, positioning you as a trustworthy professional in your field.

Dress for Success

Choosing the right attire for your headshot is crucial. Opt for clothes that boost your confidence and suit your industry’s standards. For corporate settings, solid colors or subtle patterns work best as they convey professionalism and keep the focus on your face. Creative fields might allow for more vibrant colors or unique styles, which can make your photo stand out while still looking polished. Remember, the goal is to enhance your confidence in headshots, so select outfits that feel both comfortable and empowering.

Master Your Posture

Your posture can dramatically affect how confident you appear in a headshot. Stand tall with your shoulders back, but relaxed, and engage your core. This stance not only makes you look confident but also helps you feel it. A slight tilt of the head can convey friendliness and approachability, while keeping your chin up avoids creating shadows that might suggest fatigue or sadness.

Houston Professional Headshots

Practice Your Smile

A genuine smile can transform your headshot from good to great. Spend some time practicing in front of a mirror to find a smile that is both flattering and feels natural. Think about things that make you happy or funny moments; a natural smile will automatically follow. A good photographer can also help elicit a natural, confident expression during your session.

Work with the Right Photographer

The choice of photographer is pivotal. Look for someone who specializes in headshots and understands how to portray confidence. An experienced photographer will guide you through the process, help you with posing, and choose settings that complement your personality and professional goals. They’ll also manage technical aspects like lighting and framing to ensure the final product looks polished and professional.

Prepare Mentally

Mental preparation can greatly impact your confidence in headshots. Before the session, take a moment to relax and clear your mind of any stress or anxiety. Consider meditation or listening to your favorite music to boost your mood and self-assurance. Entering the shoot with a positive mindset will shine through in your photos.

Check out my blog post Preparing Mentally for Your Headshot to learn more about how to do that!

The Importance of Lighting and Background

Lighting and background play significant roles in how professional and confident your headshot appears. Soft, natural light is flattering for most people, reducing shadows and highlighting your best features. The background should be unobtrusive and complement your appearance without drawing attention away from you. Discuss these elements with your photographer to ensure they align with the overall goal of your headshot.

Conclusion

Looking confident in headshots is crucial in today’s professional world. By following these seven tips, you ensure that your headshot makes a powerful and positive first impression. Remember, a confident headshot not only reflects your professionalism but also opens new doors in your career and business endeavors.

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Take a look at how my clients were able to exude the confidence they desired in our most recent sessions.

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Tara Flannery is a  Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Photographic Craftsman, and Master of Photography 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

His headshot made him more money… and here’s why 👇🏼

When my videographer finally swapped his profile photo for the professional headshot I took, something changed.

✅ More responses to cold DMs
✅ Better leads
✅ Real revenue growth

All from one simple update.

It’s not magic — it’s psychology.

🤝 People do business with people.

They want to see the face behind the brand, connect with a real human, and feel like they can trust who they’re hiring or buying from.

Your headshot is often the first impression you make online. Make sure it actually represents the real you — confident, approachable, and ready for the opportunities you want to attract.

✨ Ready to make the switch?

Contact me for a free consultation and let’s get you a headshot that works.

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These 5 photos will completely transform your real estate brand 👇🏼

Whether you’re a solo agent building a personal brand or a growing team trying to stand out in a crowded market—your photos matter.

Because real estate is personal. People want to see who they’re working with and feel like they can trust you.

Here are 5 must-have brand photos I recommend for every real estate professional:

📸 Professional Team or Solo Portraits
Polished but approachable. Whether it’s a team shot or a solo headshot, these are the foundation of your brand.

📸 Cohesive Headshots
A unified look builds brand recognition and creates a stronger first impression—especially across platforms.

📸 Lifestyle Images
Show yourself (or your team) in action: walking a property, chatting with clients, reviewing listings. These help clients picture the experience of working with you.

📸 Detail Shots
From signage to coffee cups and closing folders, detail shots add depth and personality to your brand story.

📸 On-Location Photos
Highlight your market and your vibe—whether it’s downtown, the suburbs, or somewhere in between.

✨ Ready to level up your real estate brand? Contact me and let’s create images that actually work for your business.

📍Serving Houston, The Woodlands, and surrounding areas

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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!

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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.