How To Take Professional Headshots

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 Take Professional Headshots

In our fast-paced world, having an impressive and professional headshot is more crucial than ever. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a professional, or simply someone looking to make a memorable statement, your professional headshot speaks volumes about you, your business, and your brand. But how do you capture that perfect headshot that radiates confidence and approachability? In this blog post, we’ll share four essential tips for taking professional headshots that will help you stand out.

4 Tips for Taking Professional Headshots

1. Collaborate with a Skilled Photographer

One of the most pivotal aspects of achieving a striking headshot is partnering with a talented and experienced photographer. While the DIY approach is tempting, a professional photographer brings expertise, top-notch equipment, and a creative eye to the table. They excel at finding your best angles, harnessing lighting to create flattering effects, and capturing your unique personality. Investing in a professional photographer is a surefire way to ensure your headshots truly shine.

2. Plan Your Wardrobe and Grooming

Before the photoshoot, take the time to meticulously plan your attire and grooming. Your clothing should align with your personal or brand identity and the context in which the headshots will be used. Choose solid colors that complement your skin tone and avoid distracting patterns. Ensure your attire is clean, well-fitted, and free of wrinkles. Additionally, pay attention to grooming details such as hair, makeup, and facial hair. A polished appearance will greatly enhance the professionalism of your headshots.

3. Select an Ideal Location

Choosing the right location can significantly influence the mood and style of your headshots. Whether you opt for a studio setting or an outdoor backdrop, it’s important to consider the message you wish to convey. A well-lit studio provides a controlled environment with a clean aesthetic, while an outdoor location can infuse your headshots with personality and character. Communicate your preferences with your photographer, and they can help you select the perfect setting that suits your vision.

4. Embrace Relaxation and Authenticity

A natural, relaxed expression is essential for capturing a professional headshot that reflects your genuine self. It’s normal to feel nervous during a photoshoot, but working with a professional photographer can help ease those jitters. They’ll guide you through the process, provide expert direction, and capture candid moments that showcase your true personality. Remember to take deep breaths, focus on positive thoughts, and let your authentic smile shine through. The more at ease and genuine you appear, the more compelling your headshots will be.

A professional headshot is a powerful tool for creating a lasting first impression. Whether you’re building a personal brand or representing your business, following these four essential tips will empower you to capture headshots that exude professionalism and authenticity. And, as previously emphasized, collaborating with an experienced photographer is the key to achieving headshots that truly stand out. So, invest in your image and capture headshots that leave an indelible impact on your audience.

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Houston Headshot Photographer

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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

Goldfish have longer attention spans than most people online. If your visuals don’t speak fast, they’re not being seen.

And more often than not, it’s your photos doing the talking before you ever say a word.

High-quality, professional visuals do more than “look good.” They ⤵️

✅ Build Trust Instantly

People want to feel like they know you before they work with you. Clear, polished images of you (not stock photography) help potential clients connect with the face behind the business.

✅ Showcase Professionalism

From your website to your Instagram grid, cohesive brand photography tells the world you’re serious, credible, and ready for business.

✅ Create Brand Clarity

What do you want people to feel when they land on your page? Confident? Warm? Innovative? Your visuals should reflect that vibe—because clarity creates confidence.

✅ Set You Apart

In a saturated market, people are buying you as much as your product or service. Brand photography gives you a chance to stand out with personality, story, and style.

If you’re still using a mix of selfies, old photos, or generic images, you might be confusing your audience—or worse, losing them.

Let’s fix that. Let’s create visuals that stop the scroll and start the connection.

📸 DM me to learn more about a brand session or click the link in bio for details.
Let’s talk about a few common mistakes that can totally throw off your branding session 👇🏻

❌ Unplanned Outfit Choices

Random, last-minute outfits = a scattered visual message. Your photos should reflect your brand intentionally — not just what's clean in the closet.

❌ No Vision or Direction

If you’re unsure how you want to show up online, your photos will reflect that confusion. A clear brand vision makes all the difference.

❌ Rushing or a Stressed Mindset

Showing up frazzled can impact your energy, your expression, and how confident you feel on camera (and it shows!).

✨Here’s the good news - you don’t have to figure this out alone. I guide you through it all with:

✔️ A pre-session consult to plan every detail

✔️ Outfit and location guidance that fits YOUR brand

✔️ Confidence-boosting prep tips

When we plan it together, you show up feeling calm, prepared, and confident — and that’s when the magic happens. 💫

📅 Let’s book a branding session that works for you, not against you. DM me or hit the link in bio to schedule your consult today!
Father’s Day Headshot Special!
Looking for a gift that’s both thoughtful and practical? Give Dad the gift of a standout first impression this Father’s Day!
 
📸 Express Headshot Session – Just $150
(Reg. $190 – Save $40!)
 
✔️ Quick and easy session in studio
✔️ Includes ONE fully retouched image
✔️ Perfect for LinkedIn, resumes, or personal branding
📍 Limited spots available | 🎁 Offer ends June 15
👉 Email tara@taraflannery.com with CODE: DADSDAY150
 
Because Dad deserves to look as sharp as he is. 💼✨
 
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CLIENT TESTIMONIAL:

“The whole process was seamless and the shots were amazing!” - James Strole, Workspace Resource

That’s the kind of experience we aim for in every corporate headshot session.

From coordinating schedules to delivering polished, professional images—corporate headshot days are designed to be efficient, stress-free, and actually enjoyable.

✔️ Everyone on your team gets a high-quality, on-brand headshot
✔️ Sessions are quick (just a few minutes per person)
✔️ No one has to leave the office or lose productivity
✔️ And yes—great photos boost morale and make your company look as sharp as the people behind it

Getting everyone updated and looking their best doesn’t have to be complicated.

📩 Ready to elevate your team’s first impression? Contact me to schedule your FREE Consultation!
📣 Your people are your brand’s BIGGEST asset. 

But if your online presence doesn’t reflect the caliber of your team... you're likely being overlooked—by your dream clients and ideal hires.

✨ The fix?

PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOTS

They instantly elevate your brand, boost credibility, and build trust. Plus, the ROI is incredible. Use them across:

✔️ LinkedIn profiles
✔️ Proposals & pitches
✔️ Press releases
✔️ Email signatures
✔️ Websites
✔️ Marketing & ads

When your team looks confident and cohesive, your brand does too. ✨

Let’s make sure your visuals speak the same high-level language as your business goals.

📸 Ready for an upgrade but don’t know where to start? DM me and let’s chat—I’d love to hear about your business goals!

OR, click the link in my bio to schedule your FREE consultation.

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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.