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Top 3 Costly Headshot Mistakes You Must Avoid

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!

Headshot Mistakes to Avoid

Unfortunately, many business and corporate professionals unknowingly make critical headshot mistakes that undermine their professional image. Your headshot is often the first impression you make on potential employers, clients, or collaborators. As a seasoned headshot photographer, I’ve seen it all, and I’m here to help you avoid the most common pitfalls. By addressing these three headshot mistakes, you’ll ensure your photo represents you at your best.

headshot mistakes to avoid

Using Outdated or Low-Quality Photos

One of the most prevalent headshot mistakes is using outdated or low-quality photos. Your headshot should be a current and an accurate representation of who you are today, not a nostalgic throwback to a past version of yourself.

Why It Matters:
An outdated photo can be misleading and unprofessional. Imagine meeting a potential client or employer, and they don’t recognize you because your headshot was taken a decade ago. This can erode trust and credibility before you even begin a conversation.

What to Do Instead:
Invest in a professional headshot session every couple of years, or sooner if you’ve undergone significant changes in appearance. Ensure your photo is high-resolution and well-lit, capturing you in your best light – literally and figuratively.

Opting for Casual or Inappropriate Attire

Your attire in a headshot speaks volumes about your professionalism and understanding of your industry. Casual or inappropriate clothing can send the wrong message and detract from your intended image.

Why It Matters:
Inappropriate attire can make you appear less serious or unaware of industry norms. A headshot intended for a corporate environment should exude professionalism and competence.

What to Do Instead:
Dress the part. If you’re in a corporate setting, opt for business attire that is clean, well-fitted, and aligns with industry standards. A lawyer’s headshot will differ from a tech startup founder’s, so tailor your wardrobe accordingly. Solid colors typically work best and avoid overly busy patterns that can distract from your face.

Poor Lighting and Distracting Backgrounds

Lighting and background choices can make or break a headshot. Poor lighting can cast unflattering shadows and obscure your features, while a busy background can draw attention away from you.

Why It Matters:
The primary focus of a headshot should be your face. Distracting elements can diminish the photo’s impact and make you appear less professional.

What to Do Instead:
Choose a professional photographer who understands the importance of good lighting and appropriate backgrounds. Natural light is often the most flattering, but controlled studio lighting can also work wonders. Opt for simple, uncluttered backgrounds that complement rather than compete with your image.

Actor and Model Headshots

Additional Tips for a Stellar Headshot

Facial Expression: Your expression can convey a lot about your personality. Aim for a friendly approachable smile, but avoid going overboard. A natural, confident expression works best.

Posture: Stand or sit up with your shoulders back. Good posture conveys confidence and professionalism.

Consistency Across Platforms: Ensure your headshot is consistent across all platforms, including LinkedIn or your website. This helps build a cohesive personal brand.

Conclusion

Avoiding these common headshot mistakes can significantly enhance your professional image and help you make a positive first impression. By using up-to-date, high-quality photos, dressing appropriately for your industry, and ensuring proper lighting and backgrounds, you can present yourself confidently and professionally.

As a professional headshot photographer, my goal is to help you look your best and communicate your professional brand effectively. Don’t underestimate the power of a great headshot – it’s an investment in your career that can pay off in countless ways.

Remember, your headshot is more than just a photo; it’s a visual representation of your professional identity. Make it count!

By following these tips and avoiding these common headshot mistakes, you can ensure that your photo accurately reflects your professional image, helping you to stand out in the business world. If you’re ready to update your headshot and put your best face forward, contact me today to schedule your session!

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Houston Headshot Photographer Tara Flannery Photography

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

- Do this instead 👇🏻

Most people focus on their outfit or expression — but your background plays a huge role in how others perceive you. It sets the tone for your personal brand before you even introduce yourself.

Your space tells clients what working with you feels like.

Here’s how different backdrops communicate different messages:

🏢 Corporate office → traditional, established, and formal.

🌿 Natural outdoor setting → approachable, creative, and warm.

🏙️ Urban or architectural environment → modern, edgy, and innovative.

🎨 Solid color or studio backdrop → clean, versatile, and timeless.

Even subtle shifts in tone, texture, or color can completely change the mood of your headshot — which is why the location is just as important as the lighting or pose.

And here’s the exciting part: with the help of professional AI editing, you don’t have to choose just one. We can create on-brand variations that fit different platforms — like LinkedIn, your website, or your marketing materials — while keeping your headshot cohesive and authentic.

Because when every detail works together — from your expression to your background — your headshot becomes more than a picture. It becomes your first impression.

📩 Ready to plan your next session? Message me and let’s find the backdrop that tells your brand story best.

#headshotlocations #headshottips #corporateheadshots #photolocationshoustontx

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Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18078263909156290
- Do this instead 👇🏻 Most people focus on their outfit or expression — but your background plays a huge role in how others perceive you. It sets the tone for your personal brand before you even introduce yourself. Your space tells clients what working with you feels like. Here’s how different backdrops communicate different messages: 🏢 Corporate office → traditional, established, and formal. 🌿 Natural outdoor setting → approachable, creative, and warm. 🏙️ Urban or architectural environment → modern, edgy, and innovative. 🎨 Solid color or studio backdrop → clean, versatile, and timeless. Even subtle shifts in tone, texture, or color can completely change the mood of your headshot — which is why the location is just as important as the lighting or pose. And here’s the exciting part: with the help of professional AI editing, you don’t have to choose just one. We can create on-brand variations that fit different platforms — like LinkedIn, your website, or your marketing materials — while keeping your headshot cohesive and authentic. Because when every detail works together — from your expression to your background — your headshot becomes more than a picture. It becomes your first impression. 📩 Ready to plan your next session? Message me and let’s find the backdrop that tells your brand story best. #headshotlocations #headshottips #corporateheadshots #photolocationshoustontx

Here’s how to fix that 👇🏻

If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable in front of the camera — especially when someone else is taking your picture — you’re not alone. It’s completely normal.

Taking professional photos can feel surprisingly vulnerable. You’re being seen, literally, and that can stir up a lot of nerves.

But here’s the thing: feeling awkward shouldn’t stop you from getting photos you love. My job as your photographer is to help ease that discomfort so you can show up as your best, most authentic self.

Here’s how I help clients do just that:

1️⃣ The Consultation

Before your session, we’ll chat about your goals, style, and how you want to be seen. I also connect clients with trusted stylists who can help you choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable (if needed).

2️⃣ A Calm, Supportive Environment

Whether we’re in my studio, your office, or an outdoor location, my priority is to create a space where you can relax, laugh, and genuinely enjoy the process. When you’re at ease, it always shows in your photos.

3️⃣ A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

Get plenty of rest, hydrate, and plan your wardrobe ahead of time. When you feel prepared, you walk into your session with a completely different kind of confidence.

Because the truth is — professional photos can feel vulnerable, but with the right guidance, they can also be empowering. 💛

📩 Ready to feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera? Message me to schedule your session today.

#professionalheadshots #corporateheadshots #headshotphotographer #headshottips

8 0
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 17961749040003344
Here’s how to fix that 👇🏻 If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable in front of the camera — especially when someone else is taking your picture — you’re not alone. It’s completely normal. Taking professional photos can feel surprisingly vulnerable. You’re being seen, literally, and that can stir up a lot of nerves. But here’s the thing: feeling awkward shouldn’t stop you from getting photos you love. My job as your photographer is to help ease that discomfort so you can show up as your best, most authentic self. Here’s how I help clients do just that: 1️⃣ The Consultation Before your session, we’ll chat about your goals, style, and how you want to be seen. I also connect clients with trusted stylists who can help you choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable (if needed). 2️⃣ A Calm, Supportive Environment Whether we’re in my studio, your office, or an outdoor location, my priority is to create a space where you can relax, laugh, and genuinely enjoy the process. When you’re at ease, it always shows in your photos. 3️⃣ A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way Get plenty of rest, hydrate, and plan your wardrobe ahead of time. When you feel prepared, you walk into your session with a completely different kind of confidence. Because the truth is — professional photos can feel vulnerable, but with the right guidance, they can also be empowering. 💛 📩 Ready to feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera? Message me to schedule your session today. #professionalheadshots #corporateheadshots #headshotphotographer #headshottips

Here`s what you can expect at a headshot session with me 👇🏻

✨ Pre-session consultation to understand your brand and team dynamics
📋 Wardrobe guidance that aligns with your company culture
🎯 Multiple looks and expressions to give everyone options
⏰ Efficient workflow that respects everyone`s busy schedules
💼 Professional retouching that maintains authenticity
📱 Digital gallery delivery within 48 hours

Be honest—when was the last time your team photos actually represented who you are today? Most companies wait 3-5 years between updates, but your people (and your business) evolve much faster than that.

Your team`s headshots aren`t just photos—they`re the first impression potential clients, partners, and talent get of your company culture. When they`re outdated or inconsistent, what message does that send?

Ready to show the world the dynamic team you`ve built? Let`s create imagery that matches your company`s growth. 🚀

#headshots #corporatephotography #teamheadshots #professionalphotography #houstonphotographer

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Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18097105072802709
Here's what you can expect at a headshot session with me 👇🏻 ✨ Pre-session consultation to understand your brand and team dynamics 📋 Wardrobe guidance that aligns with your company culture 🎯 Multiple looks and expressions to give everyone options ⏰ Efficient workflow that respects everyone's busy schedules 💼 Professional retouching that maintains authenticity 📱 Digital gallery delivery within 48 hours Be honest—when was the last time your team photos actually represented who you are today? Most companies wait 3-5 years between updates, but your people (and your business) evolve much faster than that. Your team's headshots aren't just photos—they're the first impression potential clients, partners, and talent get of your company culture. When they're outdated or inconsistent, what message does that send? Ready to show the world the dynamic team you've built? Let's create imagery that matches your company's growth. 🚀 #headshots #corporatephotography #teamheadshots #professionalphotography #houstonphotographer

I get it—parents worry their kids won’t sit still, won’t smile, or will get tired too quickly. But here’s the truth: that’s exactly what makes the photos beautiful.

✨ We start playfully — no pressure, just letting your kids warm up at their own pace.
📸 I’ll guide you into natural interactions, like walking, snuggling, or playing together.
😊 Expect tickle fights, giggles, and even a little silliness—it’s all part of the fun.
🍂 Kids need breaks? We roll with it. The best smiles usually come after they’ve had a chance to relax.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Every child gets their moment to shine—without forcing fake poses.

There’s no “perfect behavior” required. The most memorable family portraits happen when your kids are just being themselves—and you’re right there with them.

Because this isn’t about stiff poses or saying “cheese.” It’s about capturing the real magic of your family in this season of life.

📩 Ready for a session your kids will actually enjoy? DM me to get started!

#familyportraits #behindthescenes #whattoexpect #thewoodlandstxphotographer #familyphotosession

6 0
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18058614485560833
I get it—parents worry their kids won’t sit still, won’t smile, or will get tired too quickly. But here’s the truth: that’s exactly what makes the photos beautiful. ✨ We start playfully — no pressure, just letting your kids warm up at their own pace. 📸 I’ll guide you into natural interactions, like walking, snuggling, or playing together. 😊 Expect tickle fights, giggles, and even a little silliness—it’s all part of the fun. 🍂 Kids need breaks? We roll with it. The best smiles usually come after they’ve had a chance to relax. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Every child gets their moment to shine—without forcing fake poses. There’s no “perfect behavior” required. The most memorable family portraits happen when your kids are just being themselves—and you’re right there with them. Because this isn’t about stiff poses or saying “cheese.” It’s about capturing the real magic of your family in this season of life. 📩 Ready for a session your kids will actually enjoy? DM me to get started! #familyportraits #behindthescenes #whattoexpect #thewoodlandstxphotographer #familyphotosession

Here`s the hard truth about acting headshots that most photographers won`t tell you 👇🏻

If a casting director can`t immediately see what role you`d play just by looking at your photo, you`ve already lost the audition.

Corporate headshots show professionalism. Acting headshots show CHARACTER—and that requires a completely different approach.

Most actors think they need one `perfect` headshot with a generic smile. But casting directors aren`t looking for pleasant—they`re looking for types. The lawyer, the best friend, the villain. And they need to see it instantly.

That`s why specificity wins:
✨ Confident and commanding for lawyer roles
✨ Warm and approachable for parent characters
✨ Hint of mischief for villain parts

But here`s the bigger mistake—thinking one headshot is enough. One headshot = one role. Multiple headshots = multiple opportunities.

You need range: commercial-friendly, dramatic, playful, maybe edgy. When casting directors see variety, they`re thinking about how you fit their ENTIRE project.

Not every photographer understands acting industry standards. When I work with actors, we plan multiple `looks` in one session—because every shot needs to feel intentional.

Ready to create acting headshots that actually get you cast? Let`s plan a session that shows your full range.

#actingheadshots #headshots #professionalheadshots #houstonphotographer #modelingheadshots

3 0
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18086244871763501
Here's the hard truth about acting headshots that most photographers won't tell you 👇🏻 If a casting director can't immediately see what role you'd play just by looking at your photo, you've already lost the audition. Corporate headshots show professionalism. Acting headshots show CHARACTER—and that requires a completely different approach. Most actors think they need one 'perfect' headshot with a generic smile. But casting directors aren't looking for pleasant—they're looking for types. The lawyer, the best friend, the villain. And they need to see it instantly. That's why specificity wins: ✨ Confident and commanding for lawyer roles ✨ Warm and approachable for parent characters ✨ Hint of mischief for villain parts But here's the bigger mistake—thinking one headshot is enough. One headshot = one role. Multiple headshots = multiple opportunities. You need range: commercial-friendly, dramatic, playful, maybe edgy. When casting directors see variety, they're thinking about how you fit their ENTIRE project. Not every photographer understands acting industry standards. When I work with actors, we plan multiple 'looks' in one session—because every shot needs to feel intentional. Ready to create acting headshots that actually get you cast? Let's plan a session that shows your full range. #actingheadshots #headshots #professionalheadshots #houstonphotographer #modelingheadshots

- STAY IN TOUCH -

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.