Headshots have a stereotype attached to them. I know when I think of a headshot, my mind jumps to business professionals and actors only, but headshots can be more versatile than that.

Headshots can be used for:

• Dating Profiles
• Social Media
• Business Marketing
• LinkedIn profiles
• Resumes

Headshots are a way to give you an edge and to express your true self. You know those boring, grey-background photos, where the person looks really stiff and like they just sat on a nail and are grinning through the pain? These days, a headshot isn’t just about giving you a picture to slap on a bus bench, it’s about showing your clients, family, friends, and the world your genuine, confident self.

If you need a headshot for your business, it should invite people to you and create trust and authenticity in your brand. Likewise, if you are an artist or employee, headshots help people put a face with a name and should help your personality shine through!

Even if you don’t have a professional site to post your headshot, social media is a perfect place to showcase your new photo! But before you start investing in a tripod, lighting setup, and backdrops, consider having your headshots taken professionally.

When I was an aspiring child actress, I used to drag my brother or sister to the ballpark at sunset so they could get one perfect shot of my face. No matter how many times we went, though, I was never satisfied with the outcome. “Try backing up a bit,” or “Can you make sure my hair isn’t all crazy, please?” But no matter what, my siblings weren’t professional photographers. Not that they didn’t give it their best try, but nothing beats a professional photo of yourself taken by someone who knows what they’re doing.

But the process of getting your headshot shouldn’t just be about looking your best, it’s also about feeling your best. A good, professional photographer will be your hype-person and create an atmosphere of fun, as well as keeping it professional. I may be biased, but I think it’s honestly a form of self-care and therapy to get in front of a camera with Ashley Williams behind the lens!

Professional photos are a luxury, so why not treat yourself with an updated headshot?

If you’re in the market for a new headshot, checkout Ashley’s Headshot Mini Marathon on November 20th. Professional makeup is included with your one-hour studio portrait session, and you can have up to three outfit changes, so be sure to show us your style!

Written by Brianna West