Job Search 101: Polish Your Resume and Get a Headshot | Houston Headshot Photographer

Tara Flannery is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) based in The Woodlands and Conroe, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in corporate headshots.  Tara can help with Job Search 101: Polish Your Resume and Get a Headshot.  See more headshots in the gallery.  Contact me to book your professional headshot today!

Job Search 101: Polish Your Resume and Get a Headshot

“In recent studies, up to 90% of human resources people say they check out social media profiles, especially LinkedIn and Facebook, before inviting a candidate in for an interview. This means the wrong headshot can kill your chances of even talking on the phone stone-dead. Is your headshot killing your opportunities for job offers before you even get the opportunity to interview?” ~Martin Yate, CPC, author of Knock ’em Dead: Secrets & Strategies for Success in an Uncertain World

We live in a digital world full of pictures.  So the job search is one of the factors of life that has also been altered by the digital age.  If you are beginning a job search, you naturally think about updating the resume.  You’ll want to include all of the experience that you’ve had since your last job search.  You want it to be current.  The same is true for your headshot.  If recruiters are looking at your LinkedIn and Facebook profiles, they should see a professional representation of you.  Not the selfie from the weekend’s boating trip, as fun as that was.  LinkedIn is a professional network and your headshot should be professional.

Another article on the importance of not neglecting your headshot in the job search.  Job Hunting 101: Don’t Neglect Your Headshot

Headshots for Laurie

Laurie requested a headshot session for her job search.  She needed an updated headshot.  We had such a great session – we chatted and talked about kids and college in between shots!  We are all connected in some way and I love that my job allows me to find connections with people.  Everyone is on a journey and our experiences reflect the ups, downs, trials, and successes.  Laurie’s dark blue suit is a perfect match for the blue-grey background and natural light setup.  We took a number of shots with other backgrounds, lighting, and wardrobe options.  She ultimately chose these final images for her headshots.  I love that she is relaxed, professional, and friendly for her new job search headshots.  All my best, Laurie, in whatever comes next for you.

Job Search 101: Polish Your Resume and Get a HeadshotJob Search 101: Polish Your Resume and Get a HeadshotJob Search 101: Polish Your Resume and Get a Headshot

Tara Flannery is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) based in The Woodlands and Conroe, 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

When was the last time you updated your headshot? 👀

If your photo is from 10, 15, or even 30 years ago… it’s time.

Using an outdated headshot might seem harmless, but it can actually break trust — especially in professions where connection, credibility, and transparency matter (which is… all of them).

💬 Imagine a client or patient walks in expecting the person they saw online… and barely recognizes you.
It may feel small, but it instantly creates a disconnect.

Here’s the truth:
✅ Your clients want to see the real you.
✅ A recent headshot builds trust and shows you’re showing up with integrity.
✅ If your look has changed significantly (new hair, new role, new energy!) — it’s time.

Keep it current. Keep it real.
And if you’re not sure where to start, I’ve got you. DM me for a free consultation. 📸✨
Pretty pictures aren’t enough.

If you don’t know who your audience is, your branding photos won’t do what they’re supposed to do — build trust, tell your story, and attract the right clients.

Before every branding session, I walk my clients through a strategy call where we get crystal clear on two things:

1️⃣ Who are you speaking to?
2️⃣ What message do you want to send?

Because a realtor needs to connect with buyers and sellers.
An attorney needs to earn trust.
A coach needs to show confidence and approachability.

Intentional imagery makes all the difference.
📸 Let’s create brand photos that actually work for you.

📆 Contact me to schedule your session or learn more about our branding process.
What should you wear for your headshot session?
It depends on how you want to show up.

Your outfit sets the tone — and the right level of polish helps you appear confident, credible, and uniquely you.

Here are 4 levels of formality to help you choose the best look for your headshots 👇🏻

1️⃣ The Modern Suit Jacket
Crisp, structured, and powerful. Perfect for executives, attorneys, and leadership roles.

2️⃣ Soft Professional (No Jacket)
A sleek blouse or polished top with clean lines. Professional without being stiff — great for coaches, consultants, and entrepreneurs.

3️⃣ Elevated Casual (Sweaters & Knits)
A fitted knit or stylish sweater gives an approachable, warm, and modern vibe. Ideal for creatives, educators, or small business owners.

4️⃣ Casual Short Sleeve
Simple, solid, and flattering. Feels relaxed but still polished — great for wellness pros, lifestyle brands, or startup teams.

✨ Quick Styling Tips:
– Stick to solid colors that flatter your skin tone
– Skip busy prints & distracting accessories
– Choose wrinkle-free, well-fitting pieces
– Bring a backup outfit or layering option!

🎯 Not sure what’s best for your brand?

We go over wardrobe during your pre-session consultation — so you’ll feel 100% confident in what you wear and how you show up.

📆 Contact me to book your 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.