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.

Recent Headshots

Take a look at some of my most recent headshot sessions.

Houston Headshot Photographer

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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Let's talk about corporate event headshots 👇🏻

Here's what happens when you bring me to your next conference, team retreat, or company event:

✨ Seamless setup that doesn't disrupt your event flow
✨ Quick, efficient sessions that respect everyone's time
✨ Professional guidance so even camera-shy team members feel confident
✨ Consistent lighting and styling for that polished, cohesive team look
✨ Everyone leaves with a headshot they're actually proud to use

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Your employees get images that elevate their LinkedIn profiles, email signatures, and company materials. You get a team that looks unified and professional across all platforms.

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If you’re scaling your business in 2026, but your photos are still from 2021… something doesn’t align.

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Let’s talk about it 👇🏻

If you’re ending 2025 with the same headshot you had in 2022, there’s a good chance it’s no longer telling the full story of who you are today.

You’ve grown. Your career has evolved. Your confidence, presence, and expertise have too.

And your headshot should reflect the current version of you — not the one from three years ago.

Here’s why an updated headshot matters:

✨ It builds trust
✨ It supports your career growth
✨ It aligns with major milestones

It’s time for a new headshot if you’ve ⬇️

✔️ Been promoted
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✔️ Made a noticeable change in your appearance
✔️ Updated your personal brand
✔️ Outgrown the “old you”

✨ Bonus tip:

A good rule of thumb — if your headshot is more than 2 years old or doesn’t look like the person someone would see walking into a meeting today… it’s time.

You deserve a photo that represents who you are now — confident, polished, and stepping into your next chapter.

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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.

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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.