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!
Table of Contents
“TALK TO ME!!”
It’s something I say all the time—and I mean it.
I recently had a client come in for a headshot session who was very, very tall. Before we even started, he told me something important: he didn’t like his last headshot.
He felt like previous photographers had him lower his chin too much, which made him look almost… sneaky.
That one piece of feedback completely changed how I approached his session.
Instead of forcing the same pose, I adjusted his positioning—having him bend slightly at the waist while keeping a natural chin position. We reviewed the image together, and he left with a headshot he actually felt good about.
And that’s exactly the point.
The difference wasn’t lighting or equipment.
It was communication.
The Real Reason People Don’t Love Their Headshots
Most people walk into a session thinking they just need to show up and trust the process.
They don’t want to be “difficult.”
They assume the photographer knows best.
They keep their concerns to themselves.
And then… they hope they like the photos.
But here’s the truth:
→ If you don’t communicate what matters to you, your photographer is guessing.
And that’s where things can go wrong.
You Don’t Need to Hope for a Good Headshot—You Can Help Create One
A great headshot isn’t just something that happens to you.
It’s something you create with your photographer.
When you share what you’re thinking, what you like, and even what you don’t like, it gives your photographer the ability to adjust, guide, and customize your session.
That’s when the magic happens.
What to Talk About Before Your Session
If you’re not sure what to say, here are a few simple things that make a big difference:
1. What You Didn’t Like About Past Photos
This is one of the most helpful things you can share.
Was it the angle?
Your expression?
The way you were posed?
Even a small detail can completely change how your session is approached.
2. How You Want to Be Perceived
Think about where you’ll be using your headshot.
Do you want to come across as:
- approachable
- confident
- authoritative
- relaxed
Your photographer can guide you toward that—but only if they know what you’re aiming for.
3. Any Physical Preferences or Concerns
This might feel uncomfortable to bring up, but it’s incredibly important.
Whether it’s:
- posture
- height
- a “good side”
- or anything you’re self-conscious about
Your photographer can adjust for it—but they can’t fix what they don’t know.
4. Where Your Photos Will Be Used
Are these for:
- LinkedIn?
- your company website?
- speaking engagements?
- marketing or branding?
This impacts everything from posing to framing to expression.
5. What You’re Planning to Wear
Wardrobe plays a big role in your final image.
If you’re unsure about:
- tie choices
- colors
- formality
Ask. I guide my clients through this before every session so there’s no guesswork.
What a Good Photographer Will Do With That Information
When you share these details, a good photographer will:
- adjust your posing
- refine angles and posture
- guide your expression
- make small corrections throughout the session
- and often show you images along the way
Because this isn’t a one-sided process—it’s a collaboration.
Why This Matters
Without communication:
- you’re guessing
- your photographer is guessing
- and the results can feel off
With communication:
- you feel more confident
- your session feels more natural
- and your photos actually reflect you
Ready to Plan Your Headshot Session?
I guide my clients through every step—from wardrobe to posing—and I always want to hear what matters to you.
Click HERE to book your session and start planning.
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!
