How to Look and Feel Your Best in Front of the Camera
If you’re considering updating your professional headshot, you might be feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. Maybe it’s been years since your last one—or maybe you’ve never had a professional photo taken before. Either way, you’re in the right place.
As a Brisbane photographer who specialises in professional headshot and personal branding photography, I work with individuals just like you every day. People who want to look professional, approachable, and confident—but who may also be a little camera-shy or unsure of how the whole process works.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before your headshot session—from what to wear and how to prepare, to how I help you feel relaxed and look your absolute best.
Why Invest in a Professional Headshot?
Your headshot is often the first impression you make—whether on LinkedIn, your company website, a speaking event promo, or across your social media channels. It’s more than just a photo; it’s your personal brand, your digital introduction, and your professional presence rolled into one image.
A current, high-quality headshot tells your audience:
You’re serious about your work
You’re approachable and confident
You’re investing in how you present yourself professionally
If your current photo is a cropped party picture, a selfie, or a headshot from years ago that no longer reflects who you are—it’s time for an update.
What Makes a Great Headshot?
A great headshot is one that looks like you on your best day. It should reflect your personality and present you in a way that’s authentic, confident, and relevant to your industry. Whether you work in corporate leadership, creative industries, wellness, education, or own your own business, your headshot should feel like a natural extension of you.
Some key elements of a great professional headshot:
Soft, flattering lighting
Clean, uncluttered backgrounds
Relaxed, natural expressions
A pose that looks comfortable and confident
Wardrobe and styling that fits your role or brand
I guide you through all of this so you never feel unsure about what to do. From the first enquiry to the final image delivery, I make it simple and stress-free.
Common Concerns (And How I Solve Them)
“I hate having my photo taken.”
You’re not alone. I hear this more often than you might think. Most people don’t love being in front of the camera, especially when the focus is solely on them.
But here’s the difference: when you’re in a comfortable setting with a photographer who puts you at ease, everything changes. I’ll talk you through every part of the session, guide your posing, help you with expressions, and even distract you with some light-hearted conversation so that the camera becomes the least of your worries.
“I don’t know how to pose or smile.”
That’s my job. I’ll show you flattering angles, tell you what to do with your hands, and gently adjust your posture so that nothing feels stiff or awkward. You don’t need to practise in front of a mirror—I’ll guide you every step of the way.
“What if I don’t like the photos?”
I show you images as we go so you can see how great you’re looking. We work together to ensure you’re happy with the results. I also professionally retouch the final images—subtly—so that you still look like yourself, just on a great day.
What to Wear for Your Brisbane Headshot Session
Choosing the right outfit is one of the most important (and often stressful) parts of preparing. But it doesn’t have to be.
When we plan your session, I’ll help you select outfits that align with how you want to be seen. Think about how your ideal client, employer, or audience should perceive you—confident, warm, professional, creative, trustworthy?
Here are some wardrobe tips to guide you:
For Corporate or Business Professionals
A tailored blazer or suit jacket over a blouse or collared shirt works beautifully.
Stick to solid, neutral colours—navy, grey, white, black, soft blue.
Avoid heavy patterns, logos, or stripes, which can distract from your face.
Keep jewellery simple and minimal.
For Creatives, Consultants, and Entrepreneurs
Bring in some personality! Colours, textures, or statement accessories can work well here.
Think about your brand colours—do you want to subtly incorporate them?
Choose pieces that feel like “you,” while still maintaining a polished look.
For Coaches, Therapists, or Wellness Professionals
Go for natural, soft colours and breathable fabrics that reflect warmth and approachability.
Earthy tones, pastels, and layers like lightweight cardigans or linen jackets photograph beautifully.
General Tips
Bring at least two outfit options so we can try different looks.
Make sure your clothes are clean, pressed, and fit you well.
Avoid fluorescent colours or overly reflective fabrics.
If you’re unsure, feel free to send me photos of your outfit options ahead of time—I’m always happy to help.
Hair, Makeup, and Grooming Tips
Small details can make a big difference when it comes to professional headshots. While you don’t need to look overly done-up, a little attention to grooming helps you feel confident and photograph-ready.
For Women
Makeup: Light, professional makeup that enhances your natural features is best. Even skin tone, softly defined eyes, and a bit of blush and lip colour look great on camera. You can book a makeup artist, or apply your own slightly heavier than your everyday look.
Hair: Stick with your usual style, but make sure it’s freshly washed, styled, and in place. Avoid trying anything new just before your session.
Brows and Nails: Neat brows and clean nails—even if unpolished—contribute to a put-together appearance.
For Men
Shaving/Beard Grooming: Shave the morning of your session if you’re clean-shaven. If you have facial hair, make sure it’s trimmed and tidy.
Hair: A haircut 2–3 days before your session is ideal.
Skin: Moisturise to reduce shine and keep your skin looking fresh. Don’t stress about blemishes—they can be retouched if needed.
What to Expect During Your Headshot Session
When you book a professional headshot session in Brisbane with me, you’ll be guided every step of the way.
Here’s how the process typically works:
Pre-session consultation – We’ll discuss your goals, your industry, and how you want to be seen. I’ll help you decide on wardrobe, location (studio or on-site), and any other prep details.
Relaxed photo session – I’ll guide you through the shoot, adjusting your posture and expression as needed. We’ll take breaks, review a few images on the go, and make sure you’re feeling great throughout.
Image selection – I’ll provide a gallery of images for you to choose from. From there, your chosen images are lightly retouched and delivered in high resolution and web-optimised formats—ready for LinkedIn, your website, or wherever you need them.
A Few Extra Tips for a Great Headshot
Get a good night’s sleep before your session—tired eyes show on camera.
Drink plenty of water the day before to help your skin look fresh and hydrated.
Avoid alcohol the night before, as it can contribute to puffiness.
Arrive a little early to settle in, especially if we’re photographing at a studio.
Bring anything you need for touch-ups—lip balm, hairbrush, or powder.
How Professional Retouching Enhances Your Image
After your session, I’ll carefully edit your selected images to ensure they reflect you at your best. My retouching is light and natural—think of it as a gentle polish, not a transformation.
This includes:
Evening out skin tones
Minimising shine
Softening fine lines or temporary blemishes
Brightening eyes and adjusting lighting
You’ll still look like you—but refreshed, confident, and ready to represent your brand or business.
Why Choose Me as Your Brisbane Headshot Photographer
With years of experience behind the camera and recognition as a multi-award-winning photographer—including state and national photography awards, as well as being named Brisbane’s Best Family Photographer 2024 by The Courier Mail (read the article here)—I know how to create portraits that truly connect. I take pride in helping people feel relaxed, heard, and seen—not just photographed.
What makes working with me different is the care I put into every detail. From planning your session to creating a warm and supportive environment, to delivering professional images that feel like you, this is more than just a photoshoot—it’s a partnership in presenting your best self to the world.
Whether you’re an executive, small business owner, graduate, consultant, creative, or part of a larger corporate team—I’d love to help you refresh your image with a professional headshot session here in Brisbane.
Ready to Update Your Headshot? Let’s Chat
If you’ve been putting it off, or if your current photo no longer reflects who you are, now is the perfect time. Your headshot is often the first impression people have of you—let’s make it one you’re proud of.
You deserve a professional image that captures your personality, your professionalism, and your story.
Contact me today to book your Brisbane headshot photography session or to ask any questions you may have.
I’d love to hear from you — contact me today to book your professional headshot.