Corporate headshots: what to expect and how to prepare

What happens during a sitting

The photographer sets up lighting and a backdrop, takes a few test frames, then works through a handful of expressions and angles with you. Most of the session is conversation and small adjustments: chin forward, shoulders turned, a relaxed smile instead of a posed one. You see images on the back of the camera as you go, so there are no surprises.

Fifteen minutes sounds short, but a well-run sitting produces far more usable frames than most people expect. The aim is a picture that looks like you on a good day, not a stiff stock photo.

What to wear

Wear what you would wear to meet an important client. Solid, mid-tone colours photograph better than busy patterns or very fine stripes, which can shimmer on screen. Bring a second top or jacket if you want a choice of looks. Keep jewellery simple, and if you wear glasses, wear them: the photographer will angle the lights to cut reflections.

For teams, agree a loose dress code in advance. The images will sit side by side on a website, and a consistent look matters more than everyone wearing the same thing.

Team headshots at your office

Office sessions are the most efficient way to photograph a team. A small clear area is enough for the lights and backdrop, and staff step out of their day for a few minutes each. A shared schedule with fifteen-minute slots keeps it moving and means nobody waits around.

Using the same lighting and background for everyone gives a consistent set for the website, proposals and LinkedIn. New starters can be added later with the same set-up so the page never looks patched together.

Retouching: how much is too much

Good retouching removes temporary things: a stray hair, a blemish, a shine on the forehead. It does not change the shape of a face or smooth skin until it looks plastic. Clients, recruiters and customers will meet the real person, so the photo should match.

Where the images get used

Headshots end up on LinkedIn, company websites, speaker bios, press releases and email signatures. That is why delivery includes square crops for profile pictures as well as wider frames that leave room for text. Ask for high-resolution files for print and smaller files for the web.

Planning a team headshot day

Book a room with some space and, ideally, a window, although the portable lighting means natural light is not essential. Send staff the schedule a few days ahead with the dress guidance so nobody is caught out. Allow a spare slot or two for people who are late or in meetings, and nominate one person to keep the list moving on the day.

Decide early whether you want a plain background, a branded colour or an environmental look using your office. Plain backgrounds are timeless and easy to match when new people join. Environmental portraits feel more personal but need the same spot to remain available for future sessions. Whichever you choose, keeping the lighting and framing identical for everyone is what makes a team page look professional rather than assembled from different sources.