This is the time of year when I see a huge increase in headshot session bookings, and I love the steady stream of amazing entrepreneurs, actors and working professionals through my studio. But I know that sometimes new headshots are just not in the budget for some people. So what can you do?
Believe it or not, you can take an awesome headshot all by yourself, using just natural light and your iPhone. Here’s a few tips to get an awesome shot:
- Find a window with lots of natural light (but not direct sunlight) and stand facing the window.
- Angle your face slightly upwards and into the light.
- Position yourself so you can block out all the background noise and distraction in the room behind you. If necessary, move anything really distracting or messy-looking out of the frame, or position your gorgeous face right in front of it.
- Smooth out as many hair frizzies as you can. Maybe add a little extra touch of lip gloss, blush or mascara (if that’s your thing!)
- If you have Portrait Mode on your phone, use it!
- Take the photo!
Below is an example of a I photo I took of myself using all of these steps above. Not bad, right?
And here’s some behind the scenes shots – the window I was standing in front of, and the messy room behind me.
And this was just a quick shot I took for this example, wearing my casual clothes and everyday make-up. You can easily make this headshot more professional with the right attire and some amped-up make-up. Of course, if you’re having trouble getting that perfect shot, I’m always available to help and I’d love to work with you for your new headshots!
Eran Sudds is a Tsawwassen photographer who specializes in fun and natural portrait sessions that capture the real you. She is available for headshot, family and newborn portrait sessions anywhere in the Lower Mainland.
