Mastering NYC Headshots: Tips for Success

I remember the day I decided to transition from accounting to photography. One of the first things I realized was how important a professional headshot had become in our digital world. That first impression can open doors or close them before you even walk through. Having been on both sides of the camera—as a professional needing a headshot and now as the photographer creating them—I’ve gained unique insights into what makes a headshot session truly successful.

Here in NYC, where competition is fierce across every industry, your headshot isn’t just a photo—it’s a powerful personal branding tool. Today, I’m sharing my top tips for ensuring your headshot session goes smoothly and results in images that truly represent your professional best self!

Prepare Your Wardrobe Thoughtfully

What you wear in your headshot communicates volumes about your professional identity. While my Queens studio is known for our luxury approach to maternity and newborn photography, I bring that same attention to detail to every headshot session.

Bring options – I recommend 2-3 different tops or outfits that make you feel confident and represent your industry appropriately
Choose solid colors that complement your skin tone – jewel tones like sapphire blue, emerald green, or deep purple photograph beautifully
Avoid busy patterns or logos that can distract from your face and become dated quickly
Consider necklines carefully – V-necks tend to be flattering for most people, while turtlenecks can make necks disappear in photos

For my clients across Queens, Brooklyn, and Manhattan, I always suggest bringing a complete outfit rather than just tops. Even though headshots typically show you from the shoulders up, wearing a complete professional outfit helps you feel more put-together and confident during your session.

Schedule Professional Hair and Makeup

One of the luxury touches we offer at Brilianna Photography is professional hair and makeup services. Having worked with countless professionals across NYC, I’ve seen firsthand how this step elevates the final images.

Professional makeup artists know how to apply makeup that looks natural on camera while minimizing shine and enhancing your features
Hair styling ensures your hair stays in place throughout the session and photographs well from all angles
Men benefit too – light grooming and powder can reduce shine and even skin tone without looking “made up”
Arrive with clean, dry hair if you’re using our styling services, as this provides the best foundation

Having transitioned from the corporate world myself, I understand that some clients, particularly in more conservative industries, may worry about looking “overdone.” Rest assured, our approach is always to enhance your natural appearance while ensuring you look polished and camera-ready.

Practice Facial Expressions Before Your Session

The most common question I hear in my Queens studio is, “How should I smile?” The answer depends on your industry and the impression you want to make, but preparation helps tremendously.

Practice in the mirror to find your most natural and confident expressions
Try different smile intensities – from a subtle, closed-lip smile to a full smile showing teeth
Relax your face between expressions by gently blowing air through your lips
Consider your industry – legal and financial professionals often benefit from more serious expressions, while creative fields allow for warmer, more approachable looks

During your session, I’ll guide you through various expressions and help you find the ones that best represent your professional persona. My background in the corporate world gives me insight into what works across different industries throughout New York City.

Perfect Your Posture

Even in a headshot, your posture communicates confidence and competence. Poor posture can make even the most qualified professional appear uncertain or unapproachable.

Practice sitting and standing tall with your shoulders relaxed but pulled slightly back
Elongate your neck by imagining a string pulling upward from the crown of your head
Lean slightly forward toward the camera – this creates engagement and interest
Avoid stiffness by taking deep breaths and gently rolling your shoulders between shots

In our luxury portrait sessions across NYC, I take time to guide clients through subtle posture adjustments that make a significant difference in how approachable, confident, and professional they appear in their final images.

Get a Good Night’s Sleep

This might seem obvious, but it’s crucial enough to emphasize: proper rest before your session shows in your photos.

Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep the night before your session
Reduce salt intake for 24-48 hours before to minimize facial puffiness
Stay hydrated in the days leading up to your session for clearer skin
Avoid alcohol the night before, as it can cause facial redness and puffiness

While our professional retouching can address minor issues, starting with a well-rested face gives us the best canvas to work with. This is especially important for our clients in high-pressure NYC industries who might be tempted to schedule sessions during particularly busy periods.

Communicate Your Goals Clearly

Every professional has unique needs for their headshot, depending on their industry, career goals, and personal brand.

Share examples of headshots you like and explain what appeals to you about them
Discuss where you’ll use the images – LinkedIn, company website, speaking engagements, etc.
Mention any specific concerns you have about being photographed
Be open about your industry expectations so we can tailor the session accordingly

At Brilianna Photography, we take a consultative approach to every headshot session, just as we do with our signature maternity and newborn photography. Understanding your specific needs allows us to create images that truly serve your professional goals.

Trust Your Photographer’s Direction

Even if you’ve practiced expressions and posture, being in front of the camera can feel awkward. This is where trusting your photographer becomes essential.

Follow posing guidance even if it feels unnatural – what feels strange often looks fantastic on camera
Accept suggestions about slight adjustments to your chin, angle, or expression
Communicate if something feels uncomfortable, but be willing to try new approaches
Remember that professionals see things you can’t – like how light falls across your features

Having photographed professionals across Queens, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Long Island, and Manhattan, I’ve developed an eye for subtle adjustments that make a significant difference in the final image. My transition from accounting to photography gave me a unique perspective on what makes a headshot truly effective in professional settings.

Conclusion

A great headshot is an investment in your professional future. In today’s digital-first world, these images often form first impressions before you ever meet someone face-to-face. By preparing thoughtfully, communicating clearly, and trusting the process, you’ll ensure your headshot session goes smoothly and results in images that serve you well.

At Brilianna Photography, we bring the same luxury experience and attention to detail to our headshot sessions that have made our maternity and newborn photography sought after throughout NYC. From our professional hair and makeup services to our carefully guided posing, we’re committed to creating headshots that help you put your best professional face forward.

Ready to update your professional image? Book a session at our Queens studio, where we serve professionals from across New York City with headshots that make powerful first impressions.