10 Best Professional Headshot Poses for Your Business Profile

Christopher Todd wearing glasses and a black shirt is smiling in front of an orange background.
April 21, 2023
An example of headshot poses for a woman

Best Professional Headshot Poses

Your headshot is one of the most important components of your professional profile. It is often the first impression that potential employers or clients will have of you, and can make a big impact on your success in the professional world. So, it’s important to get it right! Here are the 10 best professional headshot poses to help you look your best in your profile picture.


Learn about Christopher Todd Studios' headshot services.

1. The Classic Head and Shoulders Pose

A man in a suit and tie is smiling for the camera.

The classic head and shoulders pose is a timeless and versatile option for a professional headshot. Simply stand straight, shoulders back, and look directly at the camera with a neutral expression. This pose is great for showing off your confidence and approachability.


  • LinkedIn
  • Profile photo
  • Email Signature

2. The Slight Head Tilt

A man in a suit and tie is standing in front of a building.

A slight head tilt can add a bit of personality and charm to your headshot. SLight being the key word. Simply tilt your head to one side, while still keeping your eyes focused on the camera. This pose is great for those who want to appear friendly and approachable, while still maintaining a professional demeanor. This pose is suitable for both male and female headshots. One thing I've noticed photographing many peoples headshots. Be careful not to tilt your hear too much to the side as it can look unprofessional.



  • Real Estate 
  • Corporate
  • Attorney
  • Medical industry

3. The Shoulder Angle Pose

A man in a suit and tie is standing with his hands in his pockets.

The shoulder angle pose is a great way to add some depth and dimension to your headshot. How to pose for professional headshots, simply angle one shoulder towards the camera while still keeping your face centered. This pose is great for those who want to appear confident and approachable, while still showing off their best features.



  • LinkedIn
  • Profile photo
  • Email Signature

4. The Crossed Arms Pose

A man in a blue shirt and glasses is standing in front of a wooden wall with his arms crossed.

The crossed-arms pose can give off a strong and confident vibe in your headshot. Simply cross your arms over your chest and look directly at the camera with a neutral expression. This pose is great for those who want to appear strong and assertive. Be careful with this pose, while crossing your arms say one thing be sure to have a warm genuine smile so you look friendly and approachable and not closed off.

 

  • LinkedIn
  • Profile photo
  • Acting headshot 

5. The Hands-on-Hip Pose

A woman in a black shirt and black pants is posing for a picture.

The hands-on-hip pose is a great way to show off your confidence and approachability. Simply place your hands on your hips and look directly at the camera with a neutral expression. This pose is great for those who want to appear confident and approachable. 


  • LinkedIn
  • Profile photo
  • Email Signature

6. The Lean-In Pose

A woman in a striped jacket is leaning on a railing and smiling.

The lean-in pose is a great way to show off your personality and approachability in your headshot. Simply lean forward slightly towards the camera, while still maintaining good posture. This pose is great to look more engaged and connected. If you want to appear friendly and approachable just do the lean-in.



  • LinkedIn
  • Profile photo
  • Email Signature

7. The Full Body Pose

A woman in a suit is smiling and standing with her hands on her hips.

The full-body pose is a great way to show off your entire appearance in your headshot. Simply stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, and pose with your arms and hands in a natural position. This pose is great for those who want to show off their personal style and appearance in addition to their professional demeanor. 


  • LinkedIn
  • Dating photo
  • Email Signature

8. The Natural-Candid Pose

A man in a suit and tie is standing in front of a building.

This pose is natural looking with a candid feel. The best way to achieve this look is to slightly angle your shoulders to the camera, and look past the camera or to the side of it. This gives off the appearance of a candid yet natural look. Hands should be placed in a natural position. This pose is great for those who want to show off their personal style and appearance in addition to their professional demeanor.


  • Bios
  • Personal Branding Photo
  • Email Signature

9. The Fonzie Pose

A man in a suit and tie is standing with his hands in his pockets.

The Fonzie pose is unique to Christopher Todd Studios. This is a great way to show off your entire appearance in your headshot. Simply put your weight on one leg or the other with a slight bend in the opposite knee. Hands can hang naturally to the side or one hand in the pocket. This pose helps distribute your weight and creates a slimming effect. This pose is one of our favorites to get the best look out of headshots for most industries. 


  • LinkedIn
  • Profile photo
  • Email Signature

10. The "Squinch" by Peter Hurley

A man in a suit and tie is standing in a park with his hands in his pockets.

The squinch pose is more of a facial expression. By slightly squinting your eyes with a slight pinch you show confidence. Be sure not to wrinkle your forehead. Try practicing this one in the mirror. Can be used with any of the above poses. 


  • LinkedIn
  • Profile photo
  • Email Signature


In conclusion, your professional headshot is an important component of your professional profile, and it’s important to choose the right pose to best represent yourself. 

A woman wearing a yellow jacket and a polka dot shirt is standing in a garden.

PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOT TIPS

Here are a few important headshot tips for both men and women that I have put together based on my professional experience as a portrait photographer.


Don'ts:


  1. Don't wait until the last minute: Avoid waiting until the last minute to schedule your photo shoot, as it can lead to stress and rushing.
  2. Don't ignore the background: Be mindful of the background and avoid cluttered, distracting backgrounds that take away from the subjects of the photo.
  3. Don't be afraid to take risks: Don't be afraid to experiment with different poses, perspectives, and techniques to capture unique and creative photos.
  4. Don't wear formal attire: Don't wear formal attire for a business headshot. 
  5. Don't rely on Smartphones: While smartphones have improved over the years greatly, they still will not produce a professional quality headshot.


Do's: 


  1. Do Plan your outfits in advance: This will help you feel confident in your choice and come well-prepared for your session.
  2. Do hire a professional: There are so many reasons to hire the right photographer. The most important is that you get the best photo taken. 
  3. Do choose the right background: Consider choosing a background with minimal distractions.
  4. Do smile: Be sure it is an authentic and genuine smile. 
A woman wearing a white jacket and jeans is standing in front of a white background.

POSING TECHNIQUES FOR HEADSHOTS

Poses for professional headshots can make or break your photo. Keep these 3 posing techniques in mind for your next picture. 


  1. Good posture- The reason you hear stand up straight and tall from photographers is that this has a huge impact on your headshot. Think of it as a puppet being pulled from the top of the head by a string. 
  2. The Chicken- As you stand up tall your head tends to go back, instead stick your head out like a chicken pecking. Lead with your nose toward the camera. Be sure to drop your chin slightly. 
  3. The Fonzie- The way you stand will greatly impact your photo. Keep your weight on one leg or the other. Face the camera at a slight angle either with your shoulders or your hips. Think of the Fonzie from the TV show Happy Days. He had a cool stance.
A woman wearing glasses and a sweater is standing in front of a flower bed.

HOW TO POSE FOR A PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOT

Most people looking for professional headshots are not models.

Hiring the right professional photographer will help ensure you pose correctly.


A good photographer will help guide you in the best poses and coach you throughout the photo shoot, including facial expressions and what to do with your hands. 


It is important that the photographer creates a relaxed and comfortable environment where clients feel at ease and confident in front of the camera.

Ultimately, learning how to pose for your headshot can be taught by the photographer demonstrating the poses during the session. Think of the photographer as your facial coach and posing director. 

FAQs

Some of our most frequently asked questions about professional male headshots
  • How do you become photogenic in headshots?

    This is the number one question I get. I am not photogenic can you make me look good? As a photographer, I often work with clients who feel nervous or uncomfortable in front of the camera. However, there are several techniques that can help anyone become more photogenic in headshots. Here are some tips from my perspective:


    1. Relax and Be Yourself The most important thing to remember is to relax and be yourself. The more comfortable and at ease you feel, the more natural and genuine your expressions will be. Take a few deep breaths before your session and try to let go of any tension or self-consciousness.
    2. Find Your Best Angle Everyone has a best angle, we will help you to find the one that flatters you the most. I always work with my clients to find their most flattering angle and help them feel confident and comfortable in that pose. Generally, tilting your head slightly can make your face appear slimmer and more elongated while turning your body can create a more dynamic and interesting composition.
    3. Pay Attention to Your Posture and Expression Your posture and expression can also impact how photogenic you look in headshots. Good posture can make you appear more confident and approachable, while bad posture can make you look slouchy and unprofessional. Make sure to sit or stand up straight, with your shoulders back and your chin up. Keep your arms relaxed at your sides or crossed over your chest, and avoid crossing your arms in front of your body as it can create a closed-off appearance. Similarly, pay attention to your facial expressions and try to convey a natural and genuine expression, whether that is a friendly smile or a more serious, focused look.
    4. Use Props or Movement Using props or incorporating movement into your headshot can also make you appear more photogenic. This can be as simple as holding a book or pen or incorporating a slight tilt or turn of the head to create a more dynamic and interesting portrait.
    5. Ultimately, becoming photogenic in headshots is all about feeling comfortable and confident in front of the camera and having a good coach. As a photographer, I work with my clients to create a relaxed and positive environment where they can be themselves and showcase their best features. By following these tips and trusting in the process, anyone can become more photogenic in headshots.

    As a photographer, I am here to guide you on the best ways to pose your body, including your hands, in order to create a headshot that truly represents you and your professional brand.



  • How do you look thinner in a headshot?

    There are several tips and tricks you can use to look thinner in a headshot. Here are some of the most effective techniques:


    Wear the Right Clothing


    1. Wearing the right clothing can help to make you look thinner in your headshot. Choose clothes that fit you well and are not too tight or too loose. Avoid clothing with horizontal stripes or patterns, as they can make you appear wider. Instead, opt for darker colors and solid patterns, which can make you look slimmer.

    Mind Your Posture


    1. Good posture can help you appear more slim and confident in your headshot. Stand up straight, keep your shoulders back, and lift your chin slightly. Avoid slouching, as it can create a rounded appearance and make you look wider.

    Adjust Your Angle


    1. The angle at which the photo is taken can make a big difference in how you appear in the headshot. Ask the photographer to take the photo from a slightly higher angle, which can make you appear slimmer. Tilting your head slightly can also elongate your neck and create a more flattering appearance.

    Use Lighting to Your Advantage


    1. Lighting can also help you appear thinner in your headshot. Avoid harsh lighting from below, which can create unflattering shadows and make you look wider. Instead, opt for soft lighting from above, which can highlight your best features and create a slimming effect.

    Retouching


    1. If you're still not satisfied with the final result, retouching can be a helpful tool. You can ask a professional retoucher to adjust the photo to make you appear thinner by removing any double chins or smoothing out any bulges. However, keep in mind that over-editing can make the photo look unnatural.

    In conclusion, there are several ways to make yourself look thinner in a headshot. Choose the right clothing, mind your posture, adjust your angle, use lighting to your advantage, and consider retouching if needed. With these tips and tricks, you can create a professional and flattering headshot that will make a lasting impression.

  • Can I smile in a headshot?

    Yes, you can definitely smile in a headshot! In fact, a genuine and natural smile can make you appear more approachable and friendly, which can be important in certain professional settings. However, it's important to keep in mind that the type of smile you use can also impact how you are perceived in the photo.


    For example, a big toothy grin might be appropriate for a headshot in a more casual or creative industry, but it might not be the best choice for a corporate or professional setting. In those cases, a more subdued or subtle smile might be more appropriate.


    Ultimately, it's important to find a smile that feels natural and authentic to you. You can practice different facial expressions in front of a mirror or with a friend to find the one that works best for you. When you're in front of the camera, try to relax and let your personality shine through. A natural and confident smile can make all the difference in creating a professional and approachable headshot.



  • What are three things that make up a good headshot?

    As a photographer, I believe that a good headshot is one that captures the essence of the subject while showcasing professionalism in the best possible light. Here are three things that make up a good headshot from my perspective:


    Expression and Personality


    1. A good headshot should capture the subject's unique expression and personality. I always strive to bring out the subject's best features and create a portrait that conveys their personality, whether that is a warm and friendly smile, a confident and focused look, or something else that makes them stand out.

    Lighting and Composition


    1. The lighting and composition of a headshot are also important elements that contribute to a successful portrait. I pay close attention to the lighting, using techniques such as soft, diffused light to flatter the subject's features and highlight their best angles. I also carefully consider the composition, using techniques such as rule of thirds to create a balanced and visually appealing portrait.

    Professionalism and Approachability


    1. A good headshot should also convey a sense of professionalism and approachability. This can be achieved through the subject's posture, clothing, and overall demeanor in the photo. I often work with my clients to choose appropriate clothing that conveys the right tone for their professional brand, while also coaching them on how to strike a balance between professionalism and approachability.

    Ultimately, a good headshot is one that showcases the subject's unique personality and professionalism in a visually compelling way. As a photographer, my job is to create a portrait that captures the subject's essence while highlighting their best features, using techniques such as lighting, composition, and posing to create a portrait that truly represents them and their brand.

  • What do I do with my hands during a headshot?

    As a photographer, I often get asked by my clients what they should do with their hands during a headshot session. I always try to give my clients guidance on how to pose their hands in a way that looks natural and relaxed.


    One thing I always tell my clients is to keep their hands busy. Giving your hands something to do, such as holding a prop or resting them on a nearby object, can help you feel more at ease and give your hands a purpose in the photo.


    Another important thing to consider is your posture. When you stand or sit up straight, your body language exudes confidence and can help you appear more natural in front of the camera. This can also help create more natural-looking hand placement.


    I also suggest that my clients avoid overly forced or staged poses with their hands, such as clasping them together in front of their body. Instead, I encourage them to let their hands rest naturally at their sides or on their hips, or to place one hand in a pocket or on their belt.


    Ultimately, the goal is to create a relaxed and comfortable environment where my clients feel at ease and confident in front of the camera. As a photographer, I am here to guide you on the best ways to pose your body, including your hands, in order to create a headshot that truly represents you and your professional brand.

  • Is it better to stand or sit for headshots?

    In general, it is better to stand for a headshot. Standing makes you look slimmer. You also have more options for posing while standing. Arm and hand placement, shoulder angle, etc.


    Sitting for a headshot is also acceptable. When sitting be sure to sit up as tall as possible with good posture. This will help look your best in the photo.



  • What is the most flattering angle for headshots?

    Flattering angles for headshots are not a one size fits all. This means the most flattering angle for a headshot depends on the individual's facial structure.


    A human face is not symmetrical the best angle should be determined by the shape of your eyes. Often times one eye appears larger than the other. In this case, I will turn the face so the smaller eye is closer to the camera. This helps to even out the size of the eyes in the image.


    Another angle to consider is your shoulder stance. Most people look better with their shoulders slightly angled toward the camera instead of facing it squarely.


    Lastly, how you stand is important. When facing the camera be sure to stand at a slight angle and not squarely. Lean on one leg or the other with the opposite knee slightly bent.

  • Where to get a professional headshot

    Start by searching for Professional headshots near me. This should give your suggestions for photographers in your area.


    Specifically where to get professional headshots, start by searching Google for professional headshot photographers.


    Be sure to ask if they specialize in headshots and whether you want a studio headshot or one taken outdoors.

Christopher Todd and Orange County Photographer in a blue shirt is holding a camera and smiling.

Meet Christopher Todd: Your Orange County Photographer

Hi, I’m Christopher Todd! I launched Christopher Todd Studios back in 2000, but my love for photography started long before that. Born and raised in Orange County, I’ve spent my life exploring this beautiful area. From surfing in Huntington Beach to discovering the best photo spots across the OC. Over the past 25 years as a professional photographer, I’ve continued to learn, grow, and refine my craft.

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