Professional Headshot Tips | 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 and can help with professional headshot tips.  See more headshots in the gallery.  Contact me to book your professional headshot today!

Professional Headshot Tips

You need a professional headshot in business today.  Period.  The headshot is the first introduction to your potential clients, customers, and business partners.  It needs to be current, clean, and professional!  We want to make a fantastic first impression.  Here are a few tips to make the most of your headshot session!

  1. Hire a professional for Hair and Makeup: this is controversial subject for many women.  And I’m not saying that you can’t do your own hair and make up and have a fabulous headshot, you certainly can.  But a professional hair and makeup artist will have the tools and products available to reduce shine, create that WOW factor with the eyes, and apply the right amount of makeup appropriate for the studio lighting.  The lighting requires a bit more than you might normally apply.
  2. Hire a professional headshot photographer: yes, this is me!  But it makes a huge difference when you work with a professional who is an expert in headshots.  Not just any photographer has the tools, equipment, posing, and lighting for a headshot.  Just a slight turn of the chin one direction or the other can make or break your headshot!
  3. Wardrobe: discuss your wardrobe with your photographer before the session.  Your role in the company and the product or service you provide will likely dictate the style and formality of your wardrobe.  Even the tone (light, medium, or dark) will have an affect on the type and style of your headshot.  Discuss this with your photographer so that you’re on the same page from the beginning.

Headshots for Michelle

Michelle needed a new headshot for business purposes.  She asked for professional hair and makeup which we did before the session.  She’s got a natural business look with no shine and gorgeous eyes!  The neutral lip color is perfect as well.  We started the headshot session immediately following hair and makeup.  Michelle had a couple of options for jackets and shirts.  She decided on the smart white crisp collar of the second shirt with the grey jacket.  It all blends beautifully and looks professional.  We had a great session and I love her brand new headshot!

HMUA: Roxana Phillips

Professional Headshot Tips

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.