Let’s Talk About Your Headshot (And Why It’s a Disaster)
Be honest. When was the last time you updated your headshot? If your answer is “Uh… do driver’s licenses count?” then we have a problem.
Your headshot is your digital introduction to the world, and if it’s blurry, poorly lit, or features your cat in the background, you might as well be wearing a sign that says, “I don’t take myself seriously.” Whether you’re an aspiring actor, a high-powered executive, or someone who just wants to look somewhat put together on LinkedIn, a professional headshot isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. And no, your last vacation selfie doesn’t count.
So, what’s stopping you? Let’s break down the dos, don’ts, and absolute headshot horrors so you can finally get a photo that doesn’t look like it belongs on a “before” segment of a makeover show.
The Top Signs Your Headshot Needs an Urgent Intervention
If you recognize any of the following in your current headshot, please, for the love of all things professional, schedule a new session immediately:
- It’s Older Than Your Phone’s Operating System If your headshot is so old that it predates TikTok, it’s time for a refresh. The world moves fast, and so should your headshots.
- It’s a Cropped Wedding Photo Yes, you looked great at your cousin’s wedding. No, that does not mean your awkwardly cropped face (with someone’s hand still visible on your shoulder) is a professional headshot.
- It’s a Selfie Taken with a Dirty Mirror Unless you’re auditioning for the role of “person most likely to accidentally turn on their front-facing camera,” it’s time to call a professional.
- You Look Like You Were Just Told You Owe the IRS Money If your expression screams “existential crisis,” your headshot isn’t doing you any favors. Professional photographers know how to bring out your best, not your “why am I here?” face.
- Your Background is a Kitchen, a Car, or a Questionable Basement Nothing says “I’m a professional” like a headshot featuring a fridge stocked with last night’s takeout. If the background is more interesting than you are, that’s a problem.
What Actually Makes a Great Headshot?
Now that we’ve identified the tragic headshot situations, let’s talk about how to actually get one that works in your favor.
1. Lighting That Doesn’t Make You Look Like a Suspicious Character in a Crime Show
Good lighting is everything. A professional headshot photographer knows how to make you look bright-eyed and well-rested—even if you barely survived Monday morning.
2. A Background That Says ‘I Have My Life Together’
Whether it’s a clean studio setup or a natural outdoor shot that screams “Austin cool,” the right background keeps the focus on you—not the clutter behind you.
3. A Photographer Who Understands You
A great photographer doesn’t just snap photos; they make you feel comfortable. Even if you’re the most awkward human on the planet (hello, fellow humans), they’ll help you pose and get that genuine, confident smile—without making you feel like an animatronic figure at Disneyland.
4. Clothing That Won’t Haunt You Later
Step away from the neon prints and aggressively loud patterns. Stick to classic, solid colors that won’t make your headshot look like an optical illusion.
5. A Little Retouching (But Not the ‘Is That Even You?’ Kind)
Professional retouching should enhance, not completely reinvent your face. The goal is “polished and natural,” not “AI-generated avatar.”
The Austin Headshot Scene: What’s Trending?
Austin isn’t just about live music and breakfast tacos (though, let’s be real, those are solid reasons to be here). It’s also home to a thriving professional community that understands the importance of a killer headshot. Here’s what’s trending right now:
- Outdoor Headshots with an Austin Vibe – Whether it’s South Congress, the murals of East Austin, or a sunlit shot by Lady Bird Lake, many professionals are ditching traditional studio shots for something more relaxed and authentic.
- Casual Branding Portraits – Instead of the old-school, stiff corporate look, people are opting for personal branding sessions that feel more “chill startup founder” than “corporate overlord.”
- Dramatic, High-Contrast Shots – A little mood never hurt anybody. Some professionals are going for dramatic, cinematic lighting to stand out (and, let’s be honest, to look way cooler than their competitors).
Finding the Right Headshot Photographer (Without Losing Your Sanity)
There are a lot of photographers out there, but not all of them specialize in headshots. Here’s how to pick the right one:
- Check Their Portfolio – If their past work looks like it belongs in a 90s yearbook, run.
- Read Reviews – If people say they “made them feel comfortable” and “brought out their personality,” that’s a green flag.
- Understand Their Style – Are they more classic studio vibes, or do they love an outdoor shoot? Pick a photographer whose style matches your vision.
- Consider the Experience Level – A headshot expert knows how to direct poses and lighting like a pro. Someone who only photographs landscapes? Maybe not your best bet.
So, Where Do You Go from Here?
If you’ve made it this far and haven’t scheduled a new headshot session yet, consider this your official call to action. Your professional image deserves better than a pixelated Facebook profile picture from 2013.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, actor, real estate agent, or just someone who wants to look great on LinkedIn, investing in a professional headshot is a no-brainer. And yes, Austin is full of top-tier photographers who can make it happen—like JD Swiger, for instance (but, hey, no pressure).
Now, go forth, schedule that headshot, and let’s make sure the next time someone Googles you, they see a picture that actually makes you look like you know what you’re doing. You got this!