Unlock Success: Top 5 Headshot Questions Answered for a Radiant Professional Image

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!

Most Common Headshot Questions ANSWERED by a Professional Headshot Photographer

Navigating the nuances of a professional headshot can be complex, but it’s your secret weapon for making an unforgettable first impression. As a professional headshot photographer, I am your guide through the headshot process, I bring clarity to common questions, ensuring your headshot reflects the best version of your professional self. Here are the top 5 headshot questions answered to help you harness the full potential of your professional image.

professional headshot questions

What Should I Wear in My Headshot?

“What should I wear in my headshots” is THE MOST COMMON headshot questions my clients ask. It’s the visual representation of your professional ethos. For a timeless look, opt for classic pieces with solid colors that complement your skin tone. Avoid busy patterns that can distract from your face. For those in creative fields, a pop of color or a unique accessory can showcase your creativity without overshadowing your professionalism.

Selecting the right attire for your headshot is a crucial step in ensuring your image aligns with your professional brand. Beyond adhering to the norms of your current role or industry, it’s essential to think strategically about your career trajectory. Dress for your next role or the position you aspire to in your career. This forward-thinking approach signals ambition and readiness for advancement, making a strong statement to viewers about your goals and potential.

Need more clarity when deciding on your wardrobe for your upcoming professional headshot? Grab my FREE “What to Wear Guide.” This comprehensive resource is designed to take the guesswork out of selecting the perfect outfit, ensuring you look polished, professional, and poised for success.

Should I Smile in My Headshot?

Among the most debated headshot questions is whether or not to smile. The answer to this question is simple – what message do you want to convey in your headshots? A genuine smile can make you appear approachable and confident, an asset in nearly every profession. However, the intensity of the smile should match your industry’s norms and your personal brand. Remember, authenticity shines through, so choose an expression that feels natural to you.

houston headshot photographer

Should I Wear My Glasses in My Headshot?

Another frequent headshot question revolves around eyewear. Glasses can be a defining feature of your professional persona. If you regularly wear glasses, including them in your headshot ensures consistency in your professional appearance. Modern photography techniques effectively eliminate glare, making glasses a non-issue. However, consider having a pair without lenses for the shoot to completely avoid reflection issues if necessary.

Do I Need a Professional Headshot?

You might wonder if a professional headshot is necessary for you. The answer is a resounding yes, regardless of your profession. In today’s digital age, your online presence often serves as the first introduction to potential employers, clients, or colleagues. A professional headshot provides a polished, credible image that can set you apart in any industry.

From entrepreneurs to educators, artists to attorneys, a headshot conveys professionalism and attention to detail. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about creating a personal brand that communicates your dedication and professionalism at a glance. With the rise of social media and professional networking sites like LinkedIn, a headshot is an invaluable asset for making connections and leaving a lasting impression.

Moreover, a professional headshot demonstrates that you take your career and personal brand seriously. It shows foresight and investment in your professional future, qualities that are appealing in any field. Whether you’re attending a conference, updating your LinkedIn profile, or pitching to potential clients, a headshot is a versatile tool that enhances your professional narrative.

So, do you need a headshot? Absolutely. Investing in a professional headshot is investing in your professional success, opening doors and opportunities across the spectrum of your career.

headshots for actors

The Importance of Hair and Makeup in Your Headshot

When preparing for your headshot session, considering professional hair and makeup services is more than a luxury—it’s a strategic decision to ensure you look your absolute best. Professional hair and makeup artists are adept at creating a polished, natural look that translates beautifully on camera, enhancing your features while maintaining a genuine appearance.

I partner with experienced hair and makeup artists who specialize in creating camera-ready looks. These professionals understand the unique requirements of photography makeup, such as how to balance natural light and studio lighting, ensuring that your makeup looks flawless and your hair is perfectly styled. They’re skilled at applying just the right amount of makeup to accentuate your features without it appearing heavy or overdone. For men, this can mean a subtle touch-up to even out skin tone and reduce shine, presenting a clean, refined appearance.

This collaboration with hair and makeup artists ensures that every client can step in front of the camera with confidence, knowing they look their absolute best. It’s not just about looking good—it’s about feeling good. When you feel confident in your appearance, it shows in your posture, your smile, and your eyes, all of which are captured in your headshot.

A Closer Look at Successful Headshot Sessions

Dive into our curated selection of professional headshots, showcasing the transformative power of a well-crafted image. Each photo tells a story of confidence, professionalism, and individuality, captured through our expert lens.

professional headshots

outdoor 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!

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@taraflanneryphotography

Here's the truth 👇🏻

Most professionals avoid headshots because they're scared it'll feel awkward, forced, or fake.

But here's what happens when you skip it ⬇️

❌ Outdated LinkedIn profiles
❌ Inconsistent team branding
❌ Missed opportunities to build instant credibility.

Your headshot isn't just a photo. It's your first impression working 24/7 across every platform where your business shows up.

Ready to get this handled without the stress? Let's create headshots that actually represent the confident professional you are.

Click the link below to book your consultation 👇🏻

https://linktr.ee/taraflanneryphotography

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Can you spot the difference? 👀

Same company. Same brand consistency. Three different years.

This is the power of a group composite - and it's a game-changer for growing teams.

Here's how it works 👇🏻 

Instead of wrestling with everyone's schedule to get your entire team in one place at one time (we all know that's impossible), I photograph each person individually. Then I composite them together into a polished group photo that looks like everyone showed up on the same day.

Why this solves your biggest scheduling nightmare:

✅ New hire starts next month? Add them seamlessly to your existing team photo
✅ Team member leaves? Update the composite without re-scheduling everyone
✅ Remote employees? They can get photographed separately and added in
✅ Someone's unavailable on photo day? No problem - we'll catch them later
✅ Your team photo always looks current and complete

Most businesses struggle with outdated team photos because coordinating 15+ calendars feels impossible. Group composites eliminate that friction entirely.

Ready to create a team photo solution that actually scales with your business?

DM me TODAY and book a consultation!

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Here's the truth: feeling awkward on camera isn't about you—it's about not knowing what to do with yourself.

Most professionals freeze up because they're thinking about how they look instead of what they're communicating. That self-consciousness? It shows up in every frame.

Here's what actually works:
✅ Give yourself something to do with your hands (gesture naturally, hold something meaningful) 
✅ Think about your MESSAGE, not your appearance 
✅ Remember: confidence comes from preparation, not perfection 

When you show up prepared and focused on serving your audience, that natural confidence comes through. And that's what builds credibility and connection.

Need professional imagery that actually represents the confident leader you are? 

Let's talk about creating headshots and brand content that work as hard as you do.

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Exciting update for 2025: I’m now using Headshot Tools to make your team headshots even smoother!

Here's the truth: The hardest part of team headshots isn't the photography—it's the chaos that comes after.

Tracking who chose which image. Chasing down approvals. Keeping everyone organized.

This year, I've integrated a system that eliminates all of that:

✨ Private proof galleries for each team member
📸 They choose their favorite on their own time
✅ I see selections instantly and deliver retouched images back to their gallery

No group emails. No confusion. No chasing people down.

When you bring me to your next corporate event, your team gets professional headshots without the coordination nightmare.

Ready to simplify your team's headshot experience? Lets Talk. 

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Want flawless, consistent headshots every single time? Here's the secret 👇🏻

The right equipment and settings.

When you're starting out, headshot photography can feel inconsistent—great results one session, frustrating the next.

Here's what I've learned: Consistency isn't about luck. It's about dialing in your setup.

✅ The right lens and focal length
✅ Lighting that flatters every face
✅ Camera settings you can replicate
✅ A process that works under pressure

When you nail these fundamentals, you stop second-guessing yourself. Your clients get professional results every time. And you build a reputation for quality they can count on.

Starting or refining your headshot photography? 

Drop your questions in the comments—let's talk through what's working (or what's not) in your setup.

#CorporateHeadshots #ProfessionalHeadshots #HeadshotPhotography #TheWoodlandsTX
Here's the truth ⬇️ 

Coordinating headshots for conference attendees shouldn't fall on your already-overloaded admin team.

If you're planning a conference with attendees flying in from all over, here's what happens when you add a professional headshot station to your event:

✅ Zero scheduling coordination (no calendar nightmare)
✅ Professional headshots captured on-site during the event
✅ Automatic delivery via link—no manual file sending
✅ Optional email capture for your database (bonus networking intel)
✅ Literally zero admin work for your team

The software handles everything. Your attendees get professional headshots. You get organized delivery and optional email data. Your admin team gets their sanity back.

Ready to eliminate headshot coordination from your event planning checklist?

👉🏻 Let's talk logistics. Shoot me a DM!

#CorporateEvents #EventPlanning #CorporateHeadshots #HeadshotPhotographer #CorporateBranding

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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.