Jackson Bews, Ross McLaren and the photographers at YellowBelly Photo share their top tips for your headshot photoshoot
Gone are the days of monochromatic, black-and-white headshots, now it’s all about timeless, vibrant and forward-facing portraiture. But what can you do at your headshot photoshoot to help get a picture that truly represents you?
Founded nearly five years ago, YellowBelly Photo has quickly expanded to become one of London’s leading headshot photography studios. We asked founders Jackson Bews, Ross McLaren and the other YellowBelly photographers to share their 10 top tips for your headshot session.
- First of all, always show up as yourself. There’s only one version of you out there, so sit confidently in that. While in a headshot session, be you.
- Don’t worry about coming across as vain. Headshot photographers do this every day – we’re not judging you and trust us when we say that the photos will be better if you go for it!
- Take pride in your outfits as well as yourself. Wear what you feel best represents that, and watch the magic unfold.
- A few hours of self-care before your shoot can really help with your confidence. We recommend arriving early, sipping on your favourite drink and listening to your favourite tunes (whatever chills you out!) before getting started.
- During your photoshoot, it’s important to remember that you’re having a conversation with the camera – not freezing for it – so try your best to breathe throughout. Although we’re capturing an image of you, your energy is the most photogenic thing about you.
- Don’t be afraid to talk to us about your needs – whether it’s access requirements or something that will help you relax. Your headshot photographer is here to help you capture the best version of yourself.
- When choosing your final headshots, keep in mind that it’s not about picking the prettiest or best-looking photo – it’s about looking authentic with your personality shining through.
- Book your headshot session in advance, as many photographers – including ourselves – are booked up typically up to three months in advance.
- Don’t let external factors such as blemishes and fatigue affect your confidence as these can usually be removed by the editor, if required.
- Try a range of outfits on before attending your shoot and take plenty of pictures to get a general idea of how your photos will turn out. Diversify your looks so you have a range of casting opportunities when picking your final images.
And from our team here at Spotlight, we’d like to say a huge thanks to Jackson, Ross and the team for sharing their fantastic advice!
We have lots more tips about headshots, whether it’s insight about what casting directors look for in headshots, tips for your first headshot session or you can listen to our podcast about what makes for a good photo for your Spotlight profile.
About YellowBelly Photo. Founded almost five years ago by best friends Jackson Bews and Ross McLaren, Yellowbelly Photo has elevated the ideas around what an industry standard headshot should be. Having both worked within the entertainment industry for many years, they became tired of seeing the same unimaginative headshot, that felt far from representative of a person’s character. In setting up YellowBelly, Bews and McLaren have opened up a space for people to be seen and heard, creating a real demand for photos that feel honest, truthful and dynamic – all with a timeless and cinematic feel.
Photos of YellowBelly Photo studios and founders Jackson Bews and Ross McLaren are courtesy of YellowBelly photo
