How to Choose the Perfect Headshot: A 5-Step Guide to Selecting Your Best Image

Tara Flannery is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP)  and Craftsman based in Houston, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in corporate headshots.  Here are some tips on How to Choose the Perfect Headshot: A 5-Step Guide to Selecting Your Best Image.  See more headshots in the gallery.  Contact me to book your professional headshot today!

 

How to Choose the Perfect Headshot: A 5-Step Guide to Selecting Your Best Image

Your headshot is the first impression that many people will have of you, whether it’s on your LinkedIn profile, your website, or in other professional contexts. It’s important for you to choose a headshot that reflects your personality, professionalism, and style.

 

Here are some steps to help guide you in choosing the perfect headshot image.

 

Step 1Understand the Purpose of Your Headshot:  Before you start searching for the perfect headshot, you need to understand the purpose of your image. What message do you want to convey? Are you looking to show your approachability or your seriousness? Is your target audience looking for someone with a specific personality or appearance? Understanding the purpose of your headshot will help you choose an image that matches your intended message.

 

Step 2Consider Your Brand:  Your headshot should reflect your personal brand, whether you’re a business professional or a creative freelancer. Consider the colors, lighting, and composition of your headshot, and how they align with your brand. If you’re not sure what your brand is, take some time to think about your values and what makes you unique. Then, look for headshots that align with that style.

 

Step 3Look for Professionalism:  Your headshot should convey professionalism, regardless of your industry or occupation. This means choosing an image that is high-quality, well-lit, and appropriately styled. Avoid using selfies or casual photos, as they may not convey the level of professionalism you want to show. Instead, choose a headshot that shows you in a confident, professional light.

 

Step 4.  Choose a Flattering Pose:  When choosing a headshot, consider your pose and facial expression. You want to choose a pose that is flattering and shows off your best features. Avoid images where you appear to be slouching or looking away from the camera, as this can make you seem unapproachable. Instead, choose a pose that is natural and confident, with a genuine smile that conveys your personality.

 

Step 5:  Get Feedback:   Once you’ve narrowed down your headshot choices, get feedback from others. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for their opinions, and consider asking your professional photographer or a branding expert. They can help you choose the perfect headshot that conveys your personality and professionalism.

 

Choosing the perfect headshot takes time and effort, but it’s well worth it. Your headshot is a powerful tool that can help you make a great first impression, convey your personal brand, and attract new opportunities. By following these steps, you can choose a headshot that reflects your best self and helps you achieve your goals.

 

Professional Headshots

During our time together, I’ll help coach you on the tips above.  With posing, lighting, and expression, we will create a the perfect headshot for you.  And I’ll help you choose the best image.  I have over 12 years of experience with headshots specifically and can help you choose the best one for you.

Corporate Women's Headshot

Professional business headshot

 

Accountant professional headshot

 

 

Professional Designer Business Headshot for Woman

professional corporate headshot

therapist headshot in park

 

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@taraflanneryphotography

If you loved Part 1… you’re gonna really love these next three 👀

Here are more of my go-to PeerSpace studios for branding sessions — each one brings a completely different vibe depending on the story you want your brand to tell.

Each of these spaces helps shape the mood of your session — and choosing the right one is a huge part of creating visuals that feel aligned with your industry and your audience.

Want branding photos that look like you and support your business goals?

Let’s pick the perfect location + build a session around your brand story.

📩 Reach out to schedule your branding shoot.

#peerspace #houstonlocations #brandinglocations #professionalbranding
If you’re a speaker, your images speak before you do. 🎤

Event planners are checking your website, your LinkedIn, your media kit — all before they ever reach out. And the first question they’re asking is:

“Can I imagine this person on our stage?”

That’s why speaker-focused imagery matters.

In my headshot + branding sessions, I don’t just have to take portraits —
I can recreate the experience of you presenting.

Spotlight, stage-inspired lighting, gestures, expressions, confidence… even if we’re shooting in my studio, we can make it look like you’re mid-keynote.

Because if speaking is part of your business, your visuals should reflect that — long before you step on stage.

Ready to build imagery that gets you booked?

🔗 Click the link in my bio to get started.

#headshotsforspeakers #headshotphotographerthewoodlands #professionalheadshots
And by busy, I mean doing what I absolutely love, all thanks to YOU. 💛

Every inquiry, every session, every client who trusts me to capture their brand — you’re the reason my camera stays in my hand and my calendar stays full.

If you want to be part of the fun chaos behind these clips, let’s plan your 2026 session ✨

🔗 Click the link in my bio to book a consultation! I specialize in Headshots, Branding, Family Session and Senior Portraits! I'm ready! 🥳

#BrandingPhotographer #HoustonPhotographer #HeadshotPhotographer #SeniorPortraits #FamilyPortraits
For more information on branding sessions keep reading ⬇️

If you’re planning a branding session and want clarity on:
✨ choosing locations
✨ planning outfits
✨ posing
✨ creating a strong visual message
✨ and what to expect from your session…

I created a Branding Session Guide that breaks everything down for you — step-by-step.

🔗 Click the link in my bio to get your copy!

Your brand deserves visuals that actually look like you.

#HoustonPhotographer #VisualBranding #BrandStrategy #BusinessBranding
When someone lands on your profile or website, they make a decision in seconds. 👀

Are you credible? Professional? Trustworthy?

Your branding images answer those questions before you ever say a word.

Strong, consistent visuals don’t just “look nice” — they build recognition, trust, and momentum. They show potential clients who you are, what you do, and the level you operate at.

And if your business has grown?
Your visuals should grow with it. ✨

📩 Ready to elevate how you show up? Let’s plan your branding session.

📲 Click the link in my bio to schedule a consultation with me.

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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.