Introduction
After launching my new photography business, Self Love Lens, in class, I was thrilled when an executive member of the Student Human Resources Management Club (SHRM) reached out to me for a headshot session. This collaboration gave me an incredible opportunity to practice and showcase my skills while helping SHRM members make a polished first impression online. Headshots are a vital asset in today’s professional world—often the first image an employer sees—so it’s essential to look professional, approachable, and confident.
Preparing for the Perfect Headshot
When taking headshot photos, it’s important to ensure your subject is dressed in business attire, at least from the waist up. Professional attire helps convey credibility and confidence in a photo. A neutral background is another essential element; it keeps the focus on the subject without distracting details. However, a memorable background can also be beneficial in some cases. For instance, we chose the Hall of Flags, an iconic part of our campus’s business building, to add a sense of place and school spirit to the photos.
Above all, make sure your subject feels comfortable and relaxed so they look authentic and put-together in their headshot. When your subject feels at ease, their confidence shines through, making the headshot more engaging and personable.
The Headshot Process with SHRM
SHRM arranged for our session to be held in the Hall of Flags in the business building. I arrived slightly earlier to adjust my camera settings and scope out locations for the headshots. The SHRM members decided on two spots: the stairs and the hallway lined with flags. These settings provided a nice variety of backdrops that still felt cohesive.
During the session, I checked with each person after taking their photo to ensure they felt satisfied and confident with the result. If anyone felt self-conscious or requested a retake, I encouraged them to relax, often by cracking a few jokes and creating a laid-back atmosphere. This casual approach allowed their personalities to shine through, aligning with the Self Love Lens mission to make headshots feel natural and authentic.
Using Your Headshot Effectively
After editing the photos, I shared them with the SHRM members to use on LinkedIn and other professional platforms. A well-composed headshot enhances their professional profiles, making them stand out to potential employers and connections. This experience not only strengthened my skills in headshot photography but also gave me the opportunity to provide future professionals with free, high-quality images.
Collaborating with SHRM was a rewarding experience, and I look forward to working with them—or any other organization—again in the future!