How to Pose for a Business Portrait Headshot
If you’re preparing for a professional headshot, you’re not alone in wondering: “How do I pose without looking awkward?” Don’t worry—posing for a business portrait doesn’t have to feel intimidating! At Sarah Deane Photographic, I specialize in making headshot sessions relaxed and fun, all while capturing your best angles. In this blog, I’ll cover everything you need to know about posing for a business portrait, with plenty of tips to help you feel confident in front of the camera.
What Do You Want Your Headshot to Say About You?
Before we dive into the specifics of posing, think about the message you want your headshot to convey. Are you aiming for confident and authoritative, or approachable and friendly? Your posture, expression, and even your gaze can influence how others perceive you. For example:
- Corporate professionals might go for a strong, poised pose with direct eye contact.
- Creative professionals might prefer a more relaxed posture to appear approachable and open-minded.
Knowing what suits your personal brand will help guide how you pose. And if you’re unsure, don’t worry—that’s where we step in to help.
The Basics of Great Posing
You’ve probably Googled questions like “How should I stand or sit for a headshot?” or “What do I do with my hands?” Here are some straightforward tips to help:
Posture
- Sit or stand tall—imagine a string pulling you up from the top of your head. This elongates your neck and gives you a polished, professional look.
- Relax your shoulders to avoid looking stiff. A slight tilt or shift in your shoulders can add personality and dimension.
Head Position
- Tilt your head slightly forward and down to avoid the dreaded “double chin” effect. Don’t overdo it, though—we want to see your natural jawline!
- Find your best angle by practicing in the mirror before your session. Everyone has a “good side.”
Eye Contact
- Direct eye contact with the camera conveys confidence and approachability. If you’re feeling shy, we’ll help you warm up!
- For a more candid look, try slightly averting your gaze while keeping your expression soft and natural.
How to Nail Your Facial Expression
Facial expressions can feel tricky, especially if you’re not used to being photographed. Common questions include: “Should I smile?” or “What if I look nervous?” Here’s my advice:
- Keep it natural: Avoid forcing a smile. Instead, think of something that makes you happy—it’ll bring out a genuine glow.
- Soft smiles work wonders: Even a subtle smile can make you appear approachable and professional. It lifts the face muscles giving a more flattering effect.
- Relax your face: Tension in your jaw or forehead can make you look stressed. Take a deep breath and shake it out if you feel nervous.
- I often encourage folk to look away then come back to camera, this resets and stops you glazing over!
How Does Clothing Affect Your Pose?
Your outfit plays a huge role in how you feel and pose during your session. Make sure your clothes are comfortable and fit well to avoid unnecessary adjustments to baggy shapeless silhouettes or creased, stretched fabric. Avoid anything too tight or restrictive that might limit your movement. Accessories should complement your look but are not essential- only if they represent the real you! A good tip? Keep it simple and timeless.
What Do You Do With Your Hands?
One of the most common posing dilemmas! Hands can feel awkward if you’re not sure what to do with them, but there are simple solutions:
- For standing shots: Rest one hand on your hip for a confident look, or tuck them in your pockets which frames the shoulders and looks really tidy. Crossing your arms (loosely) can also work for a professional vibe along with a welcoming smile.
- For sitting shots: Place your hands on your lap or rest your head in your hands leaning in towards the camera lens. The key is to keep arms and hands relaxed, not stiff.
Preparing for Your Headshot Session
The more prepared you feel, the more confident you’ll be! Here’s how to get ready:
- Practice poses in front of a mirror. Notice how small changes in posture or expression can make a big difference.
- Work on your facial expressions. A soft smile, a confident gaze, or even a relaxed “neutral” look can all work beautifully depending on your goals.
- Arrive on time to the session. Gives yourself time to settle in and get comfortable. Nervous? Let us know! I’ll guide you every step of the way.
Trust the Photographer’s Expertise
You don’t need to have it all figured out before your session—that’s my job! At my Portrait Photography Studio here in Newcastle, I’ll coach you through each pose, helping you find your most flattering angles and natural expressions. My goal is to make the experience enjoyable and stress-free while delivering headshots you’ll love.
Final Thoughts
Remember, your business portrait is about showcasing you in the best light. A little preparation goes a long way, but don’t sweat about the small stuff. With professional guidance from me throughout and a few simple tips, you’ll look confident, polished, and the best version of you. That’s a promise!
Ready to book your session? Let’s create headshots that reflect your personality and professionalism. Click below to schedule with Sarah Deane Photographic today!
