In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the way businesses present themselves online has never been more important. With fewer face-to-face meetings, your company’s digital presence often serves as the primary point of contact with potential clients and partners. One key way to showcase your team’s professionalism and unity is through high-quality, consistent corporate headshots.
A unified headshot page, where every team member’s photo adheres to a cohesive style, can elevate your company’s image. It conveys professionalism, organization, and attention to detail—traits that clients are looking for in the companies they work with. But getting those results requires more than just showing up for a photoshoot. Let’s dive into how to get the best results from your corporate team headshots.
Define the Purpose of Your Headshots
Before your team steps in front of the camera, it’s essential to know why you’re investing in these headshots in the first place. Are they intended for LinkedIn profiles, company websites, press kits, or all of the above? Understanding where these headshots will be used will help inform decisions about style, attire, and background.
For instance, if your headshots are primarily for the company website, you might want a more formal look. But if they’re for LinkedIn or social media, a slightly more relaxed, approachable vibe might be appropriate. When you have clarity on the purpose, you’ll also give your photographer better direction on how to approach the session.
My Experience:
I remember working with a consulting firm where each team member was planning to use their headshot in different places—some for the company website, others for personal speaking engagements. We had to strike a balance that worked across all platforms, so we opted for a consistent look that still allowed for slight individual variation. The result? Headshots that maintained brand cohesion but allowed each individual’s personality to shine through where it mattered most.
Select the Right Photographer for Your Brand
Choosing the right photographer is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make in this process. You want someone who specializes in corporate headshots and understands how to create images that not only look professional but also capture the essence of your team. Look for a photographer with experience working with teams—especially larger ones—who can manage group dynamics and ensure everyone looks their best.
A great photographer knows how to direct a shoot while making people feel at ease. This is especially important because not everyone feels comfortable in front of the camera. A professional photographer will guide your team through posing and help bring out their natural confidence.
What to Look For:
- Portfolio: Ask to see examples of their previous corporate work.
- Style: Ensure their photography style aligns with your brand.
- Experience: Do they have experience photographing teams and corporate professionals?
Create a Unified Look for Your Team
Consistency is key when it comes to corporate headshots. A mismatched set of headshots with different backgrounds, lighting, or wardrobe choices can make your brand look disorganized and unprofessional. Decide early on whether your headshots will be formal or business-casual, and communicate those expectations clearly to your team.
You should also think about how the headshots will visually represent your company’s brand. For example, if your business is in the tech industry and known for a laid-back culture, you might opt for more casual attire and a relaxed pose. On the other hand, if you’re in finance or law, a more traditional, formal look may be the best choice.
My Experience:
I once photographed a team of attorneys who wanted their headshots to feel approachable, but still professional. They initially showed up in stiff, formal suits that didn’t really reflect their friendly office culture. We ended up re-shooting after they opted for business-casual attire, which struck the right balance. In the end, their clients responded better to the updated images because the headshots better reflected who they really were.
Prepare Your Team for the Session
Your team members need to feel comfortable and confident to get great headshots, and preparation plays a big role in that. Provide everyone with clear instructions about what to wear, how to prepare, and what to expect on the day of the shoot. Encouraging good preparation will help minimize nerves and ensure everyone looks their best.
How to Prepare:
- Wardrobe: Share clear guidelines about appropriate attire, considering the look you’re going for. Avoid bold patterns or distracting accessories.
- Grooming: Encourage team members to look polished. For men, this might mean a fresh haircut or shave, and for women, professional makeup could make a difference.
- Rest: A good night’s sleep goes a long way. It helps prevent looking tired and ensures bright eyes and a natural smile.
My experience:
I always tell my clients that the best way to prepare is to practice smiling in front of the mirror. It might sound funny, but it works! I had one client who was incredibly nervous before her session. After practicing for a few days, she walked into the studio much more confident and ready to shine.
Trust the Photographer’s Process
Once the day of the shoot arrives, it’s essential to trust your photographer’s process. A skilled photographer knows how to manage lighting, posing, and angles to highlight each individual’s strengths. Allow them the creative freedom to do what they do best. Whether it’s experimenting with different poses or adjusting lighting setups, their expertise will ensure the best results.
Your photographer should also create an environment where your team feels relaxed. Nervous energy can show up in photos, so having someone who knows how to keep the atmosphere light and fun can make all the difference.
Review and Provide Feedback Promptly
After the shoot, you’ll likely receive a selection of proofs to review. When you’re reviewing the images, it’s important to keep in mind your original goals. Does each headshot align with your company’s brand? Do the photos capture the professionalism and personality of your team?
Once you’ve made your selections, be sure to provide feedback to the photographer promptly, especially regarding any retouching preferences. But be careful not to go overboard—retouching should be subtle. You want your team to look their best, but still like themselves.
My Experience:
I always tell clients that less is more when it comes to retouching. I had one client who initially wanted heavy retouching for all their employees, but after seeing the overly polished results, they realized it didn’t look authentic. We toned it back, focusing on natural enhancements, and the final results felt much more genuine.
Use the Headshots Consistently Across Platforms
Once your headshots are finalized, make sure to use them consistently across all platforms. Whether it’s on your company website, LinkedIn, or marketing materials, these images should convey a unified brand message. Consistency in visual branding builds trust and credibility, both online and offline.
Where to Use:
- Company website: Create a branded headshot page for easy access.
- LinkedIn: Ensure each team member updates their profile with the new headshots.
- Marketing materials: Incorporate the headshots into brochures, email signatures, and promotional content.
Wrap Up:
Investing in corporate team headshots is an investment in your brand. By setting clear goals, choosing the right photographer, creating a consistent look, and preparing your team, you can ensure the best possible results. A polished, professional set of team headshots not only makes your company look organized and credible but also helps build trust with clients and partners. Remember, your company’s image is often the first thing people see—make sure it’s one that leaves a lasting impression.