Top 5 headshots Denver tips to look amazing in headshots and portraits 

As another busy day of headshots Denver comes to a close, it is hard to believe that I have been doing this for 20 years. On the other hand, time and experience have given me insight into what works.

With this in mind, I invite you to pay particular attention to a few things that will help you (and your photographer) to create stunning portraits.

1. Know and accept yourself 

If you came across this article searching for headshots Denver, you probably think that this first tip is a bit strange. On the contrary. You would be surprised how many people do not like their appearance. 

A photographer can certainly retouch a photograph to ‘improve’ your appearance, but there should be limits. 

According to a British study, most people are unable to judge their appearance accurately. In other words, we don’t have a clear understanding of how we look. So, from this perspective, being self-conscious about your appearance is pointless. 

In conclusion, there is no objective way to view yourself. Therefore, it is best to create a positive self-image in your mind. Being comfortable with yourself is the ultimate freedom and makes excellent pictures. 

2. Your better side  

Statistically, 60% of people’s ‘good’ side is the left portion of their faces. However, that does not mean this applies to you. Most likely, there is something that you are self-conscious about, like how your hair parts or a scar or birthmark.

Get the most from your headshots Denver experience. Be upfront with your photographer and let them know what side of your face you would prefer to face the camera.

There is a simple exercise that you can do to identify your better side if you are having trouble. NYC photographer Ian Spanier developed this test. Hold a piece of paper up to one side of your face. Then do your best Batman villain impersonation – just kidding.

Joking aside, while you have your face bisected, look in the mirror. Observe which side appears to have more upturned corners of eyes and lips – that is your better side. Weird, isn’t it? Hey, sometimes it works, so try it and see if it works for you.

3. Headshots Denver etiquette – Carefully select your wardrobe 

Let’s face it; this is one of the most challenging choices to make under everyday circumstances. Therefore, I will make it easy for you. T-shirts with graphics and slogans are a big no-no. Just skip the tee-shirt entirely unless it’s black and preferably underneath a jacket or sport coat.

There are some exceptions to the branded tee short rule in cases where it is part of your brand. For example, my shot of Fashion Photographer Jonny Edward features him in a branded tee shirt.

Jonny is a style icon who can pull off almost any look, so in this case, his wardrobe choice fits his brand.

For professional headshots and most portraits, it is best to select a casual or formal shirt with long sleeves and a collar. Solid colors work best; you should avoid clothing with delicate patterns and stripes. 

Most camera sensors and lenses have difficulty capturing these fine elements accurately, which causes distracting distortions of the pattern or stripes in the final photo.

Finally, anticipate that you might want a black and white version of your headshot. In that case, contrasting tones work best. For example, a blue shirt and a slightly lighter tone blue tie when converted to black and white will blend into each other. 

In conclusion, keep things classy, align with your brand, avoid fine patterns and stripes, and contrast within reason.

4. Headshots Denver – Glasses 

Deciding whether you should wear glasses for your headshot or portrait is simple. If you wear glasses often and people see you with them most of the time, you should probably wear them for your photo.

An experienced photographer will know how to position you and the lighting to prevent distracting reflections. However, there are a couple of things for you to keep in mind. 

Firstly, make sure your glasses are clean, dust and smudges can appear in the photo. Not to mention, it can be time-consuming for the photographer to edit and may cost you extra.

Secondly, ensure that your glasses are positioned on your nose correctly and not too far forward. Correct glasses position will prevent your eyes from being distorted or out of focus.

5. Headshots Denver – Smiling

I’ve left the best for last, your smile. Generally, people look better when they smile. There are variations of smiling of which one or all may work for you. Lips open, small amount or a large number of teeth showing, lips closed.

Try smiling in front of the mirror to see what looks best for you.

Experienced headshot and portrait photographers will get you to smile without having to ask. Genuine smile triggering is a skill that takes some practice and know-how on the part of the photographer. Still, it creates the most natural-looking expression.

I have a few tried and proven techniques to make people smile for their portrait or headshot. The effort is entirely worth the genuine expression that comes forth. Moreover, you will love the way you look!

In conclusion, these five tips will create a stunning headshot or portrait that will delight you. Make sure that you communicate with your headshots Denver photographer. 

Discuss with your photographer what you like and don’t like about your appearance. Review things like your best side, glasses-wearing needs, and anything else that will allow you and your photographer to capture your likeness.