Smiling for a headshot isn’t just about showing your teeth—it’s about expressing confidence, warmth, and authenticity. Whether you're taking photos for LinkedIn, your website, or a professional portfolio, the right smile can elevate your entire image. In this guide, you'll learn how to create a natural, flattering smile through posture, eye engagement, and subtle facial expression. From knowing when to show teeth to mastering the “smize,” these expert tips will help you look relaxed, confident, and genuinely approachable in every shot.

What does a professional headshot look like? It’s more than a well-lit photo—it’s a visual representation of your personal brand. A strong headshot should be polished, approachable, and tailored to your industry, whether you're updating your LinkedIn profile, applying for jobs, or building a public-facing presence. In this guide, you'll discover the essential features of a professional headshot, including ideal lighting, framing, wardrobe choices, and expression. Learn how to avoid common mistakes, prepare effectively, and ensure your image communicates credibility and confidence from the very first glance.

You're polishing your resume and aiming for your dream job—so should you include a photo? Some industries love it. Others consider it a red flag. This guide breaks down the pros, cons, and when a headshot can actually work for you—not against you.

Learn where headshots make sense (think actors, designers, and international resumes) and when to leave them out (hello, U.S. corporate jobs). Plus, get expert tips from Shala Wilson Photography, Houston’s go-to for polished, professional headshots that make you look as qualified as you are.

Whether you're job hunting in creative circles or preparing for a career pivot, this no-fluff guide will help you decide what’s right—and how to do it right.

Wondering where to get a professional headshot taken? Whether you need a fresh photo for LinkedIn, your company website, or personal branding, this guide explores the most reliable options—from studios and freelance photographers to pop-up events and university services. You’ll learn what to expect from each setting, how to choose the right photographer, and how to prepare for a session that delivers polished, professional results. No matter your industry or budget, this guide will help you find the best solution for capturing a headshot that represents you at your best.

When it comes to headshots, tone matters. Warm lighting creates a friendly, approachable vibe—ideal for personal brands and creatives. Cool tones offer a modern, polished look that’s perfect for corporate profiles. In this guide, Shala Wilson Photography breaks down the differences between warm and cool headshots, helping you choose the tone that fits your brand, goals, and industry best.

Wondering what to wear for your headshot session? Your outfit can make or break that first impression—whether you're updating your LinkedIn, launching a personal brand, or submitting to casting calls. In this guide, Houston-based Black headshot photographer Shala Wilson shares expert wardrobe tips for every skin tone, industry, and identity. Learn how to dress with confidence, flatter your features, and bring your authentic self to the frame.

Your LinkedIn headshot is one of the first things people notice on your profile—and it can shape their impression before they read a single word. Whether you're job hunting, networking, or building your personal brand, a strong photo helps establish credibility and approachability. This guide walks you through exactly how to take a high-quality LinkedIn headshot, with step-by-step tips on lighting, framing, background, expression, and wardrobe. Whether you’re working with a photographer or doing it yourself, you’ll learn how to create a polished, professional image that reflects your career goals and gets noticed.

What should a headshot look like? A great headshot goes beyond looking polished—it represents who you are at a glance. Used across platforms like LinkedIn, business websites, casting profiles, and press features, your headshot plays a key role in how others perceive you. This guide breaks down what makes a professional headshot effective, including tips on composition, lighting, wardrobe, and expression. Whether you're building your brand, job hunting, or refreshing your online presence, this resource will help you create a photo that works for you.

In today’s professional world, your headshot is often your first introduction—before a handshake or email. Whether it's featured on LinkedIn, your company’s team page, or a speaking engagement flyer, a strong headshot signals confidence, approachability, and credibility. But what truly makes a headshot stand out? It’s not just lighting or camera quality—it’s how you pose. In this complete guide, we break down everything professionals need to know about posing for a great headshot—from posture and facial angles to expression tips and wardrobe choices. Mastering these techniques will ensure you look polished, authentic, and ready for any opportunity.

Want to learn how to take professional headshots that capture personality and polish? Whether you’re just starting out or refining your photography skills, this guide walks you through everything—from camera settings and lighting to posing and editing. You’ll discover how to create scroll-stopping images, avoid rookie mistakes, and build a standout portfolio in a competitive market like Houston. Get expert insights from Shala Wilson Photography and start creating headshots that elevate your clients’ personal brands—one confident click at a time.

Your headshot isn’t just a photo—it’s a visual handshake that introduces you before you speak. Whether it’s for a LinkedIn profile, personal brand, business website, or audition portfolio, a high-quality headshot conveys credibility, confidence, and authenticity across every platform. In this guide, we break down the essentials of creating a standout headshot—from understanding your photo’s purpose and choosing flattering lighting, to perfecting posture, framing, and expression. These techniques will help you produce a polished image that leaves a strong and lasting impression.

Choosing between indoor and outdoor headshots impacts your professional image. Indoor headshots offer controlled lighting and a polished, corporate look, ideal for executives and formal industries. Outdoor headshots use natural light and dynamic backgrounds to create a relaxed, authentic vibe perfect for creatives and lifestyle brands. Consider your industry, brand personality, and comfort level to pick the best setting that highlights confidence and professionalism.

Choosing the right color for your headshot outfit is crucial because it communicates personality, professionalism, and confidence. Your color choice should align with your headshot’s purpose—corporate, creative, or acting—and complement your skin tone and eye color. 

Neutral tones like navy, charcoal, and beige convey trust and reliability, while rich colors such as burgundy, royal blue, and forest green project confidence. Avoid bright whites, blacks, neons, and busy patterns as they can distract or distort the photo. Soft, solid colors paired with contrasting backgrounds help your face stand out. Testing outfits in natural light and coordinating colors with your brand or personality ensures your headshot sends the right message.

A strong modeling headshot highlights your natural features with clean styling and minimal makeup. It’s your first impression for agencies and clients. Prep by knowing your modeling type, choosing simple clothing, and practicing confident poses. Use soft lighting and neutral backgrounds to make your face stand out. Select authentic shots with minimal editing and use them in your portfolio and submissions to boost your modeling career.

Professional headshots are essential for creating a strong first impression and building trust in business and online networking. Different styles—corporate, creative, and social media—highlight your professionalism and personality. Expert guidance on posing, attire, and grooming helps you look confident and polished. Choosing an experienced photographer with a strong portfolio ensures high-quality images that enhance your personal brand and career opportunities.

Your outfit shapes the first impression in headshots. Choose colors like blues, jewel tones, or earthy neutrals for a confident, approachable look. Avoid neon, all-white, all-black, and overly bright red. Select flattering necklines based on your face shape and stick to matte, structured fabrics to avoid shine or wrinkles. Solids work best, with subtle patterns if needed. Layering with blazers or cardigans adds polish, while simple accessories enhance without distraction. Keep makeup natural and hair polished. 

Bring 2–3 outfit options for variety and avoid common mistakes like over-accessorizing or ill-fitting clothes. These tips ensure you look professional and confident in every shot.

Brand photography creates authentic visuals that represent your business identity and build trust. Choosing the right photographer means reviewing portfolios and client reviews to find the best fit. Define your needs, understand pricing, and prepare for the shoot to ensure a successful session. Professional brand photos help your business stand out and connect with your audience.

Brand photography creates a visual identity that helps businesses connect with their audience. It’s strategic, focusing on building trust and elevating brand image. Success requires strong photography skills, branding knowledge, and storytelling ability. Build a versatile portfolio, develop your personal style, price confidently, and deliver an exceptional client experience. Stay inspired and adapt to trends to grow and thrive in this creative field.

Understanding the difference between branding photos and headshots is key to building a strong personal brand and making a lasting professional first impression. Headshots focus on clean, polished images—usually from the shoulders up—used for LinkedIn profiles, corporate bios, or job applications. In contrast, branding photos tell a fuller story by showcasing your personality, work environment, and style through multiple outfits, props, and lifestyle settings. 

For small business owners, creative entrepreneurs, and coaches, investing in high-quality branding photography or classic headshots can boost your online presence, build trust with your audience, and elevate your professional image. Expert photos capture images that truly reflect your brand and open new doors.

Want to know how a woman should pose for a headshot without looking stiff or uncomfortable? This guide breaks down key headshot posing tips for women, including how to stand with confidence, use flattering angles, and express genuine emotion. 

You'll learn how posture, eye contact, and subtle expressions can transform your look, plus what to wear to enhance your natural features. These practical tips will help you feel prepared and look your best in any professional headshot session.