There are many reasons to have professional personal portraits taken: They can be used for professional materials, such as your company’s website, printed bios, business cards, or personalized stationary; they can add polish to online social media and dating profiles; and they can help document a memorable milestone in your life. The problem? You’re uncomfortable in front of the camera, fear you’re not photogenic, or have no clue what to do in front of the lens. Don’t worry: Consider these easy tips from a Dallas photographer to look and feel your best.
6 Tips to Look Your Best When Having Your Photo Taken
1. Practice in front of the mirror: This sounds silly, but it’s a tried-and-true practice of professional models. Watch yourself in the mirror as you use different facial expressions or poses. This helps you learn what works best for you.
2. Move and dance: For natural shots with personality, move around and dance. Put on music for an extra boost.
3. Engage your eyes: Tyra Banks was right when she urged her model proteges to smile with their eyes. Remember to engage your eyes and let them sparkle as you smile. This can make your expression look more natural.
4. Think of something funny: Hard time getting a natural smile that doesn’t look fake? Think of something hilarious or a sweet story that never fails to make you smile. Think these happy thoughts during your session.
5. Look your best: Spend a little extra time grooming and primping so you feel confident.
6. Trust and listen to the photographer: Get to know your photographer so you’re comfortable and at ease with them. This will help you relax and follow their guidance. Let the photographer be the director of the session for best results.
Purposes of Professional Portraits
Why invest in professional portraits? A polished head shot can come in handy for a variety of purposes:
- Business bios
- Social media profiles
- Online professional networking
- Business cards
- Personal or professional websites
- Online dating
- Personalized stationary
- Gift for family and friends
How to Choose a Good Photographer?
For great portraits, it’s best to enlist a professional photographer who is experienced in portrait and lifestyle photography, because they’ll understand how to best capture people’s personalities in photos. A photographer with a diverse professional background, particularly someone who is well-versed in portraits and creative design photography, is best. You also need to be relaxed and comfortable with your photographer, because if you’re tense, that will translate on camera. If you have a relaxed and friendly relationship, you’ll be more relaxed during your session and the photographer will capture the spark that makes you stand out.
About Your Dallas Professional Photographer:
Doug Davis has been producing professional, engaging videos and product, food, and lifestyle photography from his Dallas photography studio for over 20 years. We’d love to discuss how video can play a vital role in your dynamic marketing strategy. D-Squared Studios is located at 4312 Elm Street, Dallas, Texas 75226. Contact our office at (214) 746-6336 or doug.davis@d2studios.net to schedule a consultation.