Professional Headshot Tips for Confident Results | Duffy Photography Ireland
How to Prepare for Your Professional Headshot: Expert Tips for Confident, Polished Results
A strong professional headshot is more than a photograph, it’s your personal brand in a single frame. Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn profile, refreshing your company website, or preparing for a corporate branding session, the right preparation makes all the difference.
As a professional photographer based in Kilkenny, I’ve helped countless clients feel confident, relaxed, and camera‑ready. These simple steps will help you arrive prepared and get the most from your session.
Why Preparing for Your Headshot Matters
A headshot is often the first impression you make online. With so many professionals competing for attention, a polished, authentic image helps you stand out. Good preparation ensures:
You look confident and approachable.
Your headshot aligns with your personal or corporate brand.
The session runs smoothly with less stress.
You receive images you’re proud to share.
1. Choose the Right Outfit
Your clothing should reflect your role, your industry, and your personality.
What works best:
Solid colours — navy, charcoal, black, cream, and jewel tones photograph beautifully.
Simple, clean lines — avoid busy patterns or distracting logos.
Layers — blazers, jackets, or structured tops add shape and polish.
Neat collars and well‑pressed fabrics — creases show up more than you think.
For corporate teams:
Aim for a cohesive look across the company. Neutral tones and similar levels of formality help create a unified brand image.
2. Grooming and Personal Care
Small details make a big difference in high‑resolution photography.
Hair
Fresh trim or tidy-up a few days before the session
Avoid major style changes right before your session.
Makeup
Keep it natural and professional.
Matte finishes reduce shine under studio lighting.
Bring powder or blotting papers for touch-ups.
Facial Hair
Shave or shape your beard the morning of your session.
Moisturise to avoid redness or irritation.
3. Rest, Hydrate, and Relax
Your face tells the story of how you’re feeling.
Drink plenty of water the day before
Get a good night’s sleep.
Avoid alcohol the night before — it can cause puffiness.
A relaxed client always photographs better. If you’re nervous, that’s completely normal, part of my job is helping you feel at ease.
4. Think About Your Brand
Your headshot should reflect who you are and what you do.
Ask yourself:
Do I want to appear friendly and warm, or strong and authoritative?
Is my industry more creative or more corporate?
Where will these images be used — LinkedIn, website, press, speaking events?
Share this with your photographer so we can tailor lighting, posing, and background to match your goals.
5. Practice Your Expressions
You don’t need to rehearse like an actor, but a little practice helps.
Try:
Relaxed smiles
Confident, neutral expressions
Slight variations in head tilt
Softening your eyes (the secret to natural portraits)
A few minutes in the mirror can make you feel more prepared and comfortable on the day, but your photographer should help you look your best and recommend poses, etc for you.
6. Bring a Few Options
Even if you’re confident in your outfit, bring one or two backups. This gives flexibility if:
· A colour doesn’t work with the background.
· A fabric wrinkles easily.
· You want a mix of formal and relaxed looks
Accessories should be minimal and timeless.
Final Thoughts
A professional headshot is an investment in your personal brand. With the right preparation, you’ll walk away with images that feel authentic, confident, and polished photos you’ll be proud to use across your professional platforms.
If you’re ready to update your headshot or book a corporate session in Kilkenny or anywhere in Ireland, I’d be delighted to help you create something exceptional.