How to Look Your Best in a Headshot: Posing, Smiling and Camera Nerves
Short answer: To look your best in a headshot, sit or stand tall with relaxed shoulders, angle one shoulder slightly back, and bring your head slightly forward and down to define your jawline. Before each shot, take a slow breath and relax your face. For a natural smile, think of something that genuinely makes you happy, or let out a soft laugh. Your photographer will guide the rest.
Almost everyone feels awkward in front of a camera. After photographing hundreds of professionals, I can tell you the “photogenic” people aren’t born that way. Good posture, a relaxed face and a little direction do most of the work.
How should I pose for a headshot?
- Angle your body. Turn slightly and set one shoulder back instead of squaring up to the camera. It adds dimension and keeps you from looking flat or stiff.
- Bring your head forward and slightly down. It feels strange, but it defines your jawline on camera.
- Keep a strong spine. Sit or stand tall with relaxed shoulders. If you’re seated, leaning forward slightly with elbows on your knees looks approachable and engaged, like you’re chatting with a friend.
- Reset between shots. Close your eyes, take a deep breath and relax your face, then open your eyes to the camera.
If you’ve seen a pose or style you love, bring an example. It helps your photographer understand the look you want.
How do I smile naturally in photos?
A forced smile happens when you hold one expression too long. These keep it real:
- Think of a real moment. Recall a favorite memory or something funny. A genuine thought creates a genuine smile that reaches your eyes.
- Try a soft laugh. A small chuckle or exhale loosens your face instantly.
- Relax your jaw. Don’t clench or press your lips together.
- Take micro-breaks. If your smile starts to feel stiff, relax your face for a few seconds, breathe and start again.
- Practice in the mirror. Try everything from a slight grin to a full smile and notice which feels most like you.
How do I stop feeling nervous in front of the camera?
- Breathe. Try the 4-7-8 technique: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7 and exhale for 8.
- Loosen up. Roll your shoulders and shake out your hands before and between shots.
- Play music. A song that makes you feel good shifts your mood quickly.
- Wear something you feel great in. See What to Wear for Your Professional Headshot.
- Trust your photographer. My job is to direct you, so you don’t have to know how to pose. Tell me what makes you uncomfortable and we’ll work around it.
What if I’m “not photogenic”?
Being photogenic is a myth. What looks like a natural gift is really lighting, posing, expression and confidence, and all of those can be learned or directed. There’s no “messing up” in a session. My job is to make you comfortable enough that your real personality comes through, and that’s what makes a great headshot.
What should I bring to my headshot session?
- A comb or brush for flyaways
- Powder or blotting papers for shine
- A backup top or jacket
- Water and a small snack to keep your energy up
- Example photos, if you have a style in mind
How often should I update my headshot?
Every two to three years, or any time your look, role or company changes. Your headshot should look like the person who shows up to the meeting.
Frequently asked questions
Should I smile with teeth in my headshot?
It depends on your industry and the impression you want to make. A warm, closed-mouth smile reads as confident and polished, and a full smile reads as friendly and approachable. Most sessions capture both so you can compare.
Where should I look in a headshot?
Look straight into the lens, as if you’re making eye contact with someone you like. It creates natural, engaged eye contact with whoever views your photo.
What’s the best angle for a headshot?
Turn your body slightly away from the camera, then bring your face back toward the lens with your chin slightly forward and down.
How long does a headshot session take?
Team headshots take about 5 minutes per person, with posing direction throughout.