In this guide, learn best practices for cropping headshots, including aspect ratios, composition tips, and common mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re a photographer fine-tuning your work or someone trying to perfect their own profile picture, these tips will help you get the most out of your headshots.

Types of headshot crops

Let’s go over some of the most common types of headshot crops. 

Tight crop

This is when you have close-up headshots that are tightly cropped. These headshots focus on the face, typically from the top of the head to just below the chin.

Actors, models, comedians, and performers who need to showcase their facial expressions often use this type of crop. You’ll also see tightly cropped headshots for corporate professionals who want a bold, direct look or in social media profile pictures where faces need to be clearly visible in small thumbnails.

Medium crop 

A classic headshot features a “medium crop.” It’s the most traditional crop, including the head and shoulders, and sometimes part of the upper chest, while leaving some space above the head. 

Medium cropped headshots are common for corporate professionals, LinkedIn profiles, ID badges, and business headshots. 

Body crop

A body crop in headshots typically shows three-quarters of the person’s body, often from the waist or mid-torso up to the head, allowing for more posture and body language. There are lots of use cases for a body crop, including corporate, creative, and more. You’ll see it often in executive portraits, branding photos, realtor headshots, and creative professionals.

A body crop can be effective for executives and business leaders who want to convey authority and presence, as well as personal branding shoots for creative professionals, consultants, and coaches. They’re also appropriate for website and social media images where a more relaxed, natural look is preferred.

Panoramic crop

A panoramic crop is a wide, landscape-style crop that includes extra space around the subject, often used for web design or printed materials. These are best for website banners, email headers, printed marketing materials, social media cover photos, and team or group shots where multiple people need to be included.

You can often repurpose other crops into a panoramic crop, as seen in the examples below:

Choosing a headshot crop ratio: standard headshot and portrait photo sizes

When cropping a headshot, selecting the right aspect ratio ensures the photo looks professional and fits its intended use. 

You can use any ratio you like, as long as it suits your purposes, but there are some standard ratios to help guide you. We’ll take a look at cropping photography examples using the same original photo so you can see the difference.

1:1 square crop

A 1:1 square crop works best for profile pictures on social media like Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook. This means the width and height of the headshot are exactly the same. Square crops keep the subject centered and visible in thumbnails—even if the thumbnail is a circle.

2:3 classic photo print crop

The 2:3 ratio is best known for 4”x6” prints. It’s a rectangular crop often used in traditional photography. As a widely recognized photo ratio, it can ensure consistency across prints and digital platforms.

3:4 mobile-friendly portrait crop

The 3:4 crop is slightly taller and wider than the 2:3 portrait crop. It’s commonly used in mobile photography. It works best for ID photos, mobile-optimized profile pictures, and some online applications. This ratio fits well within mobile screens and aligns with some passport and ID photo requirements. It’s one of the less common ratios to use when cropping headshots. 

4:5 portrait crop

The 4:5 portrait crop is a rectangle that is slightly taller than it is wide, like the 3:4 crop. However, this one is slightly wider than the 3:4 crop. The 4:5 crop is commonly used for printed portraits and in digital and printed portfolios, especially for actors and models. This ratio closely aligns with the classic 8”x10” headshot print, a standard in the entertainment industry. It’s also the new ratio for standard Instagram feed posts. 

5:7 professional photo print crop

5:7 is a commonly used ratio for 5”x7” photo prints. It’s a slightly elongated portrait format, best for printed headshots and framed portraits. Slightly taller than 4”x6”, this crop is often used for display prints and professional photo albums.

11:14 US visa & government crop

11:14 is a specific portrait ratio required for US visa applications and some government-issued ID photos, like passports, visas, and photo ID cards. This allows you to adhere to specific government regulations for travel and identification photos when required.

16:9 widescreen crop

16:9 is most known for your standard widescreen TV format. This wide, horizontal aspect ratio matches widescreen displays, like televisions. It’s also used when a web designer wants to fill an entire web page with a photo as the background for desktop viewing. The 16:9 crop is generally best for website banners, video thumbnails, and full-width web backgrounds, ideal for professionals who want their headshot integrated into website designs.

Why do you need to crop a headshot?

You might need to crop headshots or portraits for a few different reasons, including: 

• You need to adhere to specific guidelines or requirements for the headshot’s use case.
• Cropping helps frame the subject’s face correctly, ensuring focus remains on their expression without unnecessary distractions.
• Different platforms (LinkedIn, Instagram, corporate directories, etc.) have specific dimension and aspect ratio requirements. Cropping ensures the image fits correctly without distortion.
• Cropping prevents distortion when resizing a photo for websites, social media, business cards, or printed portfolios—especially if the ratio or scale of the original photo is different than the platform you’re using.
• You can change the photo orientation—for example, converting a horizontal image into a vertical headshot or vice versa. 
• Cropping can eliminate background distractions, unnecessary space, or other elements you don’t want in the shot, making the image cleaner and more professional.
• A tighter crop draws attention to the subject’s facial expressions, especially important for professional, acting, and modeling headshots.
• Applying compositional techniques like the rule of thirds or centering can enhance the overall visual appeal of the headshot.

Photo cropping tools

Cropping headshot photography is easy with the right tools, whether you’re using professional software, mobile apps, or online editors.

The default Photos app on iPhone devices lets you crop images with preset aspect ratios (square, 4:5, 16:9, etc.), making it easy to adjust headshots for social media or business use. Similar to iPhone, Android’s and Google Photos’ built-in editing tools allow basic cropping with aspect ratio options.

You also have the following photo editing tools that offer the ability to crop headshots: 

• Adobe Photoshop: The industry standard for professional photo editing. Photoshop allows precise cropping, aspect ratio adjustments, and fine-tuned composition control. Make your way around Photoshop with the help of these tutorials. 
• Adobe Lightroom: Lightroom offers simple but powerful cropping tools with preset aspect ratios for quick adjustments.

• Canva: A user-friendly design tool that includes cropping presets for social media, business, and personal use. Free and paid versions available. 
• Fotor: A free, web-based photo editor with cropping tools for resizing and aspect ratio adjustments.
• Pixlr: A lightweight alternative to Photoshop that works directly in your browser.
• Kapwing: Useful for cropping images for specific platforms, like LinkedIn or Instagram.
• Apple Preview: The native Mac program, Preview, also offers the ability to crop images. 

Tips for cropping headshots

Cropping a headshot is more than just resizing an image—it’s about framing the subject in the most flattering and effective way. Here are some tips to keep in mind to ensure your cropped headshot looks polished and professional.

Check for symmetry

Speaking of balance, you’ll want to keep both sides of the headshot as symmetric as possible. Slight misalignment can make a headshot look unbalanced. Generally, you’ll want to keep the subject’s head centered, unless using an intentional off-center composition for artistic purposes, and facial features aligned properly within the crop. You can make small adjustments to improve balance.

Consider the background 

Cropping can shift the visual proportion of an image, sometimes presenting unwanted distractions in the background. After cropping, check for any elements that may detract from the subject, such as harsh lines, objects, or uneven lighting. If the background becomes too much, consider removing it for a cleaner look.

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Use high-resolution images 

Cropping reduces the overall size of an image, which can lead to quality loss, especially when enlarging the cropped photo. It’s best to start with a high-resolution image so the final cropped version is sharp and clear. This is particularly important for printed headshots and high-resolution digital use.

Consider the rule of thirds

The rule of thirds is a photography principle that helps create a balanced composition. When cropping, imagine dividing the image into a 3×3 grid and placing the subject’s eyes or face along one of the intersecting points. This creates a more visually appealing headshot than simply centering the face.

Mind the context

Different industries have different expectations for headshot styles. A corporate executive’s headshot may have a tighter crop, emphasizing professionalism, while a creative professional might prefer a looser crop that includes more body language and personal expression. Further, an athlete might prefer a body crop to show their physicality or context of their sport. Keep industry norms in mind when deciding on a crop.

Know the guidelines

Each platform has specific dimensions and aspect ratio requirements for profile photos. Always check the latest size guidelines for social media, corporate directories, and other platforms before cropping your headshot. 

Here are some guidelines at the time of this writing: 

Don’t forget to test across different platforms. A crop that looks good on one channel may not work on another. Some sites automatically crop profile pictures into circles—so make sure no important parts of the face are cut off.

Mistakes to avoid

Even a well-lit, high-quality headshot can be ruined by improper cropping. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your headshot remains professional, flattering, and platform-ready.

Cropping the head

Typically, you don’t want to crop out any part of the head. There may be creative exceptions, but this is a general rule of thumb when editing headshots. You’ll want to maintain eye level alignment, so the subject’s eyes are in the upper third of the frame. This creates a natural and engaging composition.

Don’t forget to also leave breathing room. Avoid cropping too tightly at the top of the head or too close to the chin, which can make the photo feel cramped.

If you’re going for an, a small crop at the very top can work—in some cases—but avoid cutting into the forehead or leaving too little space above the head, as it can feel unbalanced.

Cropping too tightly or too widely

Avoid cutting too close and making the composition feel cramped. On the other hand, leaving too much space will lose subject focus. 

Cropping too tightly without considering platform-specific dimensions can also result in awkward framing or automatic cropping that cuts off key facial features. Always check recommended aspect ratios for LinkedIn, Instagram, and other platforms before finalizing the crop.

Cropping at awkward points 

Cropping at the neck or shoulders can make the subject look awkwardly cut off if not done right. When cropping below the face, do so at a natural break, like mid-chest, rather than directly at the neck or shoulder line.

Cropped to perfection

A well-cropped headshot does more than just frame a face—it enhances professionalism, draws attention to key features, and ensures the image works across different platforms. By following best practices in aspect ratio, composition, and positioning, you can make sure every headshot looks polished and intentional.

Need help perfecting your images? At Path, we specialize in high-quality photo editing, including expert cropping, retouching, and background adjustments. Let us handle the details so you can present yourself or your clients in the best possible light. Try Path today and see the difference precision editing can make!

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How to crop a headshot FAQ

How cropped should a headshot be?

A headshot should be cropped to keep the subject’s face as the main focal point while maintaining proper proportions. Typically, the crop should include the head and shoulders, leaving some space above the head and slightly below the shoulders. Avoid cropping too close to the top of the head or cutting off important parts of the face, like the chin.

What are the proportions for a headshot?

The most common aspect ratios for headshots are:

• 1:1 (square): Ideal for LinkedIn and profile pictures.
• 5:7 or 4:5: Standard portrait proportions often used for professional or corporate headshots.
• 16:9: A wider crop sometimes used for website banners or social media covers.

For most uses, a 4:5 or 5:7 ratio keeps the face well-balanced within the frame.

How do you crop a headshot on iPhone?

1. Open the Photos app and select the headshot.
2. Tap Edit in the top right corner.
3. Choose the Crop & Rotate tool.
4. Select a preset aspect ratio (like 1:1 or 4:5) or manually adjust the crop.
5. Adjust the framing to keep the face centered, leaving a little space above the head.
6. Tap Done to save your cropped headshot.

How to crop a headshot in Photoshop?

1. Open the image in Adobe Photoshop.
2. Select the Crop Tool (shortcut: C).
3. In the top toolbar, set the aspect ratio (e.g., 4:5 or 1:1).
4. Drag the crop box to position the face properly—centered with space above the head.
5. Press enter (return) to apply the crop.
6. Save the file in high resolution for the best quality.

The post How to Crop a Headshot: Tips + Tools in 2025 appeared first on Path Edits.

We know how much goes into creating stunning portraits, which is why we’re here to help you polish your portraits. From retouching skin tones to removing distractions in the background, our 24/7 virtual photo editing studio edits every portrait to look its absolute best.

Let’s learn more about portrait photography and what goes into creating amazing portraits.

What is portrait photography?

The portrait photography definition is that it’s a style of photography focused on capturing the personality, mood, and essence of a person or group of people. Portraits are usually close-up shots that highlight the subject’s face, although full-body portraits and environmental portraits—showing the subject in a meaningful setting—are also common.

The main purpose is to convey the subject’s individuality through expressions, poses, backgrounds, lighting, and sometimes even props.

What’s the difference between portrait photography and headshot photography?

Portrait photography and headshot photography both focus on capturing people, but they have distinct purposes and styles.

Headshots are tightly framed images that center on the subject, typically with a blurred or neutral background. They’re usually straightforward, clean, and simple, often used in professional settings to represent a person’s image on business platforms, resumes, and social media profiles like LinkedIn.

Portraits, on the other hand, are broader in scope and more flexible in creative approach. They capture not only the appearance but also the personality and mood of the subject, often using varied poses, expressions, and settings. Portraits can be taken in more contextual or dramatic backgrounds, offering a storytelling element. The style can range from formal to artistic.

Unlike headshots, portraits are often used for personal expression, editorial work, or creative marketing materials, allowing for more freedom in capturing the individuality and character of the person.

That being said, headshots are trending to showcase more personality, even for professional use. So we’re seeing lots of portrait-type approaches being used in professional headshots—including in the photos our clients ask us to retouch.

Types of portrait photography

Traditional portraits

Traditional portraits are classic, posed shots where the subject usually looks directly at the camera. Traditional portraits often have controlled lighting and a neutral background, focusing on the subject’s face and upper body. They’re commonly used for formal occasions like school photos, corporate headshots, or family pictures.

Environmental portraits

Environmental portraits capture the subject in a setting that provides context about their personality, interests, or occupation—like an artist in their studio or a chef in the kitchen. The background is an essential part of the composition, as it helps tell a story about the person.Taken in a location meaningful to the subject, like a workplace, studio, or natural setting, to add context.

Candid portrait photography

Candid or lifestyle portraits capture people in natural, unposed moments, often appearing they don’t realize they’re being photographed. Candid photos might show people in their everyday environments, participating in ordinary activities, like a family playing at home or friends sharing a meal.

The emphasis is on storytelling and showcasing real-life moments in a natural and relaxed manner. This style aims to show authentic emotions and genuine expressions, commonly used in street photography or lifestyle sessions.

Creative and fine art portraits

Creative portraits make use of artistic techniques like dramatic lighting, unusual angles, or unique styling to add a creative twist.

Under the umbrella of creative portrait photography, you have fine art portrait photography—highly stylized and artistic, with a focus on creative expression rather than realism. Photographers use unique lighting, props, and post-processing techniques to create images that often resemble artwork. The goal is to evoke emotion and convey deeper themes or concepts.

Conceptual portraits use symbols, props, and settings to represent an idea or theme, often surreal or abstract. They make viewers think or interpret a message and are commonly found in art galleries or editorial spreads.

Surreal portraits involve creative techniques such as unusual lighting, Photoshop manipulation, or abstract concepts. They create a dreamlike or fantastical scene, going beyond reality to express a specific vision.

Glamor and beauty portraits

Focused on making the subject look their best, glamor portraits often involve professional makeup, styling, and sometimes retouching to enhance features. These portraits are typically bold, polished, and can be seen in fashion, beauty, or modeling portfolios.

Self-portraits

A self-portrait is taken by the photographer of themselves, often used as a form of self-expression or exploration. It can range from simple selfies to highly stylized, planned shots that tell a personal story.

Portrait photography tips and best practices

Portrait photography really boils down to three core elements: lighting, composition, and poses. Let’s look at each:

Lighting

The ideal lighting setup for most styles of photography is natural light—whether you’re shooting indoors or outside. If shooting inside, look for places with access to lots of natural window light.

However, sometimes you’re shooting portraits in a studio setting without access to natural daylight. In this case, you’ll need to use studio lighting equipment.

A typical portrait lighting setup might include a three-point lighting setup with a key light, fill light, and hair light. However, portrait photographers can adjust this setup depending on the style and mood they want to create.

For instance, Rembrandt lighting involves positioning the key light to one side to cast a triangular shadow under the opposite eye, while butterfly lighting places the key light directly above and in front of the subject to create soft shadows under the nose and cheekbones.

Let’s get into the details:

• Main light (key light): Your primary light source, typically placed at a 45-degree angle from the subject, above and to the side of the camera. It defines the overall lighting pattern and provides the strongest illumination, creating depth and dimension on the subject’s face. You might use softboxes, umbrella lights, or beauty dishes.
• Fill light: The fill light reduces shadows created by the key light, providing balance. It’s usually placed on the opposite side of the key light, at a lower intensity. You can use reflectors or a second light source as fill light. It’s usually softer and positioned closer to the camera axis to keep the subject’s face evenly lit without eliminating all shadows, which would flatten the image.
• Background light: This illuminates the backdrop behind the subject, separating them from the background and adding depth to the image. You can put it behind the subject, aimed at the background. This light can help create a gradient effect or highlight specific areas of the background for a more polished look.
• Hair light or rim light: The hair or rim light helps separate the subject from the background, particularly if they’re wearing dark clothing or have dark hair against a dark background. Place this light above and behind the subject to add a slight glow to their hair and shoulders. Often, a small softbox or strip light is used to create a subtle, even light around the edges of the subject.
• Reflectors: Reflectors bounce light onto the subject, acting as additional fill without needing an extra light source. They’re typically placed below the subject’s face or on the opposite side of the key light to reflect light back onto areas where shadows might be too harsh. Reflectors come in various colors (white, silver, and gold) to create different effects: white for soft fill, silver for a brighter bounce, and gold for a warmer tone.
• Modifiers: Light modifiers like softboxes, umbrella diffusers, grids, and barn doors help shape and control the quality of the light. Softboxes and umbrellas soften the light, creating a more flattering effect on the subject’s face. Grids and barn doors can be attached to the lights to direct the light and prevent unwanted spill onto the background.
• Light stands and c-stands: Stands hold the lights in place and allow for positioning flexibility. C-stands are particularly useful for heavier lighting equipment or boom arms, as they provide added stability.
• Triggers and sync cords: Wireless triggers or sync cords connect the camera with the lights, allowing the portrait photographer to control the timing of the flashes.

This is essential for coordinating all lights to fire simultaneously with the camera shutter.

Composition

In portrait photography, composition is critical. The right composition allows you to create visually engaging and balanced images that highlight the subject’s features, expressions, and personality.

One popular approach in portrait composition is using a shallow depth of field, which keeps the subject sharply in focus while blurring the background. This technique isolates the subject, drawing the viewer’s eye directly to their face or specific details, and is particularly effective for creating intimate, focused portraits.

Beginners might also use the rule of thirds as a guiding principle. Essentially, the subject is placed slightly off-center, making the image more dynamic and visually interesting. Using leading lines or framing elements—like doorways, windows, or trees—can also help direct attention toward the subject. Considering the placement of the eyes in the frame is important—positioning them along the top third line tends to create a natural focal point.

In environmental portraits, the background plays an integral role in the composition—it adds context about the subject’s life, profession, or interests.

Portrait photographers often use elements in the surroundings to complement the subject, enhancing the story within the frame. Experimenting with different angles—like shooting slightly above or below eye level—can also add variety and make the portrait more visually compelling.

Poses

Posing is another critical element in portrait photography. Effective poses look natural, relaxed, and help the subject appear comfortable in front of the camera.

A common starting point for portrait poses is a relaxed posture, where the subject slightly shifts their weight onto one foot, helping create a more dynamic stance.

The angle of the head can also make a big difference—turning the face slightly away from the camera often adds dimension, while a slight tilt can convey friendliness or approachability.

For a more formal look, the subject might sit or stand straight with a dignified posture, while a casual pose might involve leaning against a wall or sitting on the floor.

The hands can also be expressive, so guiding the subject to position their hands naturally—resting on their lap, crossed, or lightly touching their face—can add sophistication or playfulness.

For candid or lifestyle portraits, photographers may encourage the subject to move around, talk, or even engage in a familiar activity, creating an authentic pose that feels spontaneous. Posing tips like “chin down” or “lean forward” can help avoid unflattering angles and make the subject look more engaged.

For group portraits, arranging people at different heights and angles can create visual interest and help each person stand out while maintaining balance within the frame.

Portrait photo sizes

Size-wise, portrait photos are taller than they are wide. But this is technically speaking. You’ll find lots of portraits out there which are shot in landscape—wider than they are tall—or square (popularized by Instagram).

A traditional portrait photo size is 1080 x 1350 pixels. Printed portraits may be the following:

• 4×6 inches: small prints, standard
• 5×7 inches: slightly larger, often used for portraits and group photos
• 8×10 inches: popular for family portraits or school photos
• 11×14 inches: focal point portraits
• 16×20 inches: high-impact, dramatic

Now it’s time to edit your portraits

Ready to take your portrait photos up a notch? Even if your photos are gorgeous, they’re likely to need some edits. You can fumble in photo editing software or outsource it to the pros who already know their way around in Photoshop.

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Portrait photography FAQs

How do you take portrait photos?

Taking portrait photos involves several steps to capture the essence, personality, and mood of your subject:

1. Set up your lighting—natural light is ideal, but studio lighting works well for controlled environments.
2. Choose a background that complements the subject.
3. Set your camera to a wide aperture (low f-stop, like f/1.8 or f/2.8) to create a shallow depth of field, which keeps the subject in focus while blurring the background.
4. Direct the subject into comfortable poses that reflect their personality. Encourage them to relax, move naturally, and express a range of emotions for variety.
5. Pay attention to composition techniques, like the rule of thirds, framing, and leading lines, to create a balanced and visually interesting shot.
6. Experiment with angles, close-ups, and different focal lengths to add depth and impact.
7. Capture multiple shots to ensure you have options to choose from in post-processing, where you can make further adjustments to enhance the final image.

What makes a photography portrait?

A photography portrait is an image that captures more than just the physical appearance of a person—it reveals their personality, mood, and character. Portraits focus on the subject’s face and expressions, but can include other elements—like posture, body language, and even background settings—that add layers to the storytelling. The goal is to present a deeper, more personal view of the subject, often achieved by carefully choosing lighting, poses, and composition. Portraits can be formal or candid, artistic or straightforward, but they always center around conveying something unique about the individual being photographed.

What defines portrait mode photography?

Portrait mode photography is a technique used to focus sharply on the subject while blurring the background, creating a shallow depth of field effect. Many digital cameras and smartphones have a “Portrait Mode” setting that automatically adjusts aperture, focus, and depth of field to highlight the subject and create a professional look. Portrait mode isolates the subject from the background, making them the central focus of the image, which is especially effective for close-up shots of faces or upper bodies. This mode is popular for achieving the look of professional portraits with minimal manual adjustments.

What does a portrait photographer do?

A portrait photographer captures images that highlight the personality, mood, and essence of a person or group. They plan and set up shoots, scout locations, control lighting and backgrounds, and direct the subject to achieve flattering and expressive poses. They work with both technical skills (like understanding lighting setups, camera settings, and composition) and people skills, building rapport with the subject to get natural, authentic shots. A portrait photographer may also handle editing and retouching photos. Portrait photographers can work in various settings, including studios, on-location, or in natural environments.

What classifies a portrait photo?

A portrait photo is classified by its focus on capturing the likeness, personality, and mood of a person or group, often through close-up shots that emphasize the face and expressions. Portraits can include a range of styles—from formal posed shots to candid or creative approaches—but they generally center on the subject as the main focal point. Other characteristics of a portrait photo include attention to lighting, composition, and background, as well as a thoughtful use of depth of field to keep the subject sharp while softening the surroundings. The intent behind a portrait photo is usually to reveal something about the individual, whether it’s a professional headshot, a family portrait, or an artistic exploration of personality.

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The post What Is Portrait Photography? Types and Examples (2025) appeared first on Path Edits.

To help understand the impact of different headshot backgrounds, we chatted with two experts:

• Sarah Miller, Philadelphia-based commercial and headshot photographer
• Alycee Byrd, Greensboro-based professional photographer specializing in people

They’ll walk us through the best background choices for headshot photography in various industries and how each one can elevate a headshot.

Best backgrounds for headshots

White or light gray

Tried-and-true white backgrounds are common in headshot and portrait photography, as well as other photography niches. And there’s a good reason for it—it’s relatively easy to create a white background either in Photoshop or during the shoot, and it minimizes distractions, allowing the focus to be on the subject of the photo.

Depending on the lighting, your white background may actually appear off-white or gray, like in the example below.

Plus, these are easy to edit. “If you’re specifically talking about Photoshopping somebody into an artificial background, I have white and gray in my studio, so those are my starting points,” says Sarah.

Pros

• Clean with minimal distractions
• Easy to edit and manipulate for multiple uses
• Neutral and uniform
• Easy to replicate

Cons

• Can appear too stark or bright
• Offers little creativity
• Can blend in with white background websites and publications

Best for

• Real estate agents
• Investors
• People in the beauty industry
• LinkedIn photos
• Medical professionals

Black or dark gray or dark blue

For a more refined, sleek, and professional look, black, dark gray, or dark blue backgrounds are ideal. These darker tones create a striking contrast that immediately draws attention to the subject, giving the headshot a sense of authority and sophistication. These colors are commonly used in industries where professionalism and luxury are paramount.

Dark backgrounds give an instant luxury feel. It’s about making the subject appear strong and confident without overwhelming them with distractions. Plus, it adds a level of timelessness to the image.

These backgrounds work well in controlled lighting conditions, where you can sculpt the subject with light and shadow, giving the headshot a dramatic, three-dimensional quality.

Pros

• Gives an instant luxury feel
• Creates a powerful contrast between subject and background
• Timeless, classic aesthetic that suits professional industries
• Can help subjects with lighter skin tones or brighter clothing stand out
• Makes a strong impact without adding visual clutter

Cons

• Can be expensive to print
• Can feel too formal or intense for more casual industries
• May appear too dark on certain websites or platforms, especially if the subject’s clothing blends in
• Requires good lighting control to prevent the image from looking too flat

Best for

• Luxury industry professionals
• Travel and hospitality
• Finance and law professionals
• Executives and corporate leaders

Bold and colorful

Colored backgrounds can infuse personality into a headshot. It’s a trend Alycee is noticing. “I’m getting more requests for color backgrounds instead of white,” she says. “I can see more and more people are trying to express themselves in headshots.”

Source

Bright or pastel colors can offer a playful, creative touch while still maintaining a professional appearance.

Pros

• Adds personality and creativity
• Can help subjects stand out
• Eye-catching, especially for creative industries

Cons

• Risk of color clashing with the subject’s attire
• May not suit every industry, skin tone, or purpose
• Can limit versatility across different platforms

Best for

• Marketing and creative professionals
• Teachers
• University faculty
• Startups or entrepreneurs who want to express individuality
• Dating profiles
• LinkedIn photos

Brick

Using a brick wall, either indoors or outdoors, provides texture and a sense of authenticity to a headshot. This backdrop often feels urban, rugged, or grounded, making it ideal for certain professions.

Source

Pros

• Provides a warm, earthy feel
• Adds texture without being distracting
• Offers a grounded, authentic aesthetic

Cons

• Can appear too casual for formal industries
• Limited in color options (typically reds and browns)

Best for

• Coffee shops
• Vintage industry
• Musicians
• Artists
• Startup entrepreneurs

Natural outdoor setting

Outdoor headshots are often taken in parks, gardens, or urban landscapes, with greenery or natural elements in the background. These settings evoke calmness, openness, and authenticity, appealing to professionals who want to appear approachable and grounded.

Pros

• Creates a calm, open, and natural vibe
• Makes the subject appear approachable and down-to-earth
• Provides a unique, less structured backdrop

Cons

• Difficult to control lighting and weather
• Can appear too informal for certain industries

Best for

• Environmental professionals
• Outdoor or event photographers
• Scientists
• Musicians
• Artists
• Parks and recreation professionals
• Dating profiles

Contextual

Contextual or environmental backgrounds, such as an office, workspace, or other professional settings, lend credibility and relevance to a headshot by placing the subject in their real or perceived environment. These images make subjects appear more connected to their industry.

“The trend that I’m seeing in my community currently is solopreneurs, upstart businesses, and very small businesses are trying to look more established than they are or look like they have a higher volume or more trustworthiness even though they’re just starting out,” says Sarah. “So the most popular request I get right now is some sort of generic blue glass, a very current modern corporate shot.”

“They’re not stock photography so there’s no licensing issue because I own the copyright to the original background image,” says Sarah. “So even though they’re being photographed in my studio, which is very clean and very simple, they’re asking to be superimposed into a very sleek glass looking hallway that looks like great architecture behind them.”

Pros

• Creates a professional, “in the field” feel
• Gives context to the subject’s profession
• Customizable and can enhance a brand story

Cons

• Can be expensive to create or acquire custom backgrounds
• May look too staged or artificia

Best for

• Real estate agents
• Bar and restaurant professionals
• Entrepreneurs looking to establish credibility
• Service providers

Minimalistic pattern

Using minimalistic patterns, such as subtle geometric shapes or textures, can provide visual interest without overpowering the subject. This option gives a modern feel while keeping the focus on the person.

Pros

• Adds subtle texture and depth
• Modern and clean aesthetic
• Great for professionals looking for a fresh yet understated look

Cons

• Can be difficult to pair with certain outfits
• May not suit very formal professions

Best for

• Graphic designers
• Tech professionals
• Professionals in modern, creative industries

How to create backgrounds for headshots

“I have fun with it when I can, but I usually just use the seamless backdrop papers,” says Alycee.

You can rent, purchase, or make backgrounds for your headshots from other materials, too.

Poster board, fabric, etc.

Affordable and available in a wide variety of colors and textures, these materials can provide unique and creative backdrops. They’re especially useful for creating a DIY setup at home or for low-budget shoots.

Physical wall

Using an actual wall as a backdrop can be a great option, particularly if you’re looking for an industrial or modern feel. Brick, concrete, textured, or painted walls can add personality to the shot.

Digital files

Another growing trend is creating digital backgrounds, which can be superimposed in post-production. “Stock photography can become very expensive very quickly if you want to publish it on a national platform or even a global platform, or if you want to use it at a higher resolution,” says Sarah.

That’s why many photographers create their own digital backgrounds or shoot against a green screen to add in custom backdrops later. This method offers endless possibilities for customization without the hassle of physical backdrops.

Lighting

No matter which background you choose, lighting is key to making it work effectively. Whether you’re using natural light, studio lights, or a combination of both, proper lighting can ensure that the subject stands out and the background enhances the shot rather than detracting from it. For example, when using dark backgrounds like black or gray, rim lighting or backlighting can help prevent the subject from blending into the backdrop.

On the other hand, for brighter backgrounds, soft, diffused lighting works well to create a more flattering, even tone. It’s important to adjust the lighting to match the background’s tone and texture, ensuring that the subject remains the focal point of the image.

Edits

Post-production headshot edits also play a significant role in achieving the perfect shot. Whether you’re tweaking the brightness and contrast or swapping out backgrounds, editing can refine the final look.

With good editing skills, you can clean up the background, remove distractions, and make adjustments to better suit the client’s needs, ensuring a polished, professional final image.

Why backgrounds are important for professional headshots

A headshot is often the first introduction someone has to a professional. “The thing with headshots is you’re selling yourself,” says Alycee. “You want your headshot to make someone want to work with you.”

A well-chosen background directs attention to the subject, helping them stand out without overwhelming the image. The right background complements the subject’s attire, personality, and profession.

The background also sets the tone and mood. A clean white background may give a bright and approachable look, while a dark background can evoke sophistication and professionalism.

Plus, different industries may call for different backdrops. For example, a bright, colorful background works well for creatives and marketing professionals, while darker or neutral tones suit corporate executives or finance professionals. The background helps communicate what the individual represents.

Let’s get the perfect background for your headshot photography

The right background is more than just a backdrop—it’s a powerful tool that enhances your professional image and communicates your personal or brand identity. Whether you choose something classic like a white or gray backdrop, bold like a colorful background, or something more contextual and relevant to your profession, the background should work harmoniously with lighting, editing, and your overall presentation.

By carefully selecting the background that suits your profession and goals, you ensure that your headshot stands out and leaves a lasting impression. Let your background support your story, and let your headshot do the talking. 

Headshot backgrounds FAQs

What background is best for headshots?

The best background for a headshot depends on the industry and the message you want to convey. Neutral colors like white, light gray, and black are classic choices for professional headshots as they keep the focus on the subject and work well across various platforms. For more creative industries, bold and colorful backgrounds can add personality and stand out visually. Contextual or environmental backgrounds, such as office settings, also work well for professionals looking to incorporate more of their work environment.

How to make a headshot background?

You can create a headshot background using a variety of materials. Seamless paper backdrops are commonly used due to their versatility and easy setup. Other options include poster boards, fabric, or textured walls. Digital backgrounds can also be added during post-production with the use of green screens or Photoshop. The key is to ensure the background is neutral or relevant to the subject’s profession and doesn’t distract from the main focus of the shot.

What are the rules for headshot background?

• Keep it simple: The background should not compete with the subject for attention.
• Match the industry: Choose a background that reflects the subject’s profession.
• Ensure contrast: The background should contrast with the subject’s attire to prevent them from blending in.
• Proper lighting: The lighting should complement both the subject and the background to enhance the overall look.
• Maintain professionalism: Avoid overly busy or cluttered backgrounds unless it fits a creative or artistic purpose.

Do I need a backdrop for headshots?

While a backdrop isn’t always necessary, it can create a clean, professional look by eliminating distractions. If shooting outdoors or in an office, natural or environmental backgrounds can also work well, but a neutral backdrop is preferred in controlled studio settings for consistency and easy editing.

What is the best background for headshots?

For corporate and professional headshots, neutral backgrounds like white, gray, or black work best. These colors are versatile and ensure the subject remains the focus of the image. Creative professionals might opt for bold colors to showcase personality, while environmental or office settings provide context for certain professions like real estate or consulting.

What should be in the background of a headshot?

Ideally, nothing in the background should distract from the subject. The background should be simple, clean, and complementary to the subject. In some cases, minimal patterns, textures, or environmental elements like bookshelves in an office or outdoor scenery might be included to add context or character.

How to create a headshot background?

To create a headshot background, you can:

1. Use seamless backdrop paper in neutral colors like white, gray, or black.
2. Use fabrics, poster boards, or physical walls with interesting textures (e.g., brick or wood).
3. Set up a digital background by photographing against a green screen and adding the background during post-production.
4. Choose a location with a natural or environmental background, like an office or park, but ensure it doesn’t overwhelm the subject.
5. Adjust lighting to make sure the subject remains the focal point, regardless of the background.

The post How to Choose the Best Backgrounds for Headshots appeared first on Path Edits.

Headshots are essential for a variety of business and personal uses. Let’s dig in to learning all about headshots and how you can use them for your own needs.

What is headshot photography?

Headshot photography is a specialized type of photography that focuses on capturing a person’s face, typically from the shoulders up. The primary goal is to highlight the subject’s features, personality, and professionalism in a clean and straightforward manner.

A headshot is typically used for professional or identification purposes. It’s meant to present the subject in a clear and focused manner, often for business, acting, or modeling profiles. The general goal is to convey professionalism, confidence, and approachability.

What’s the difference between a headshot and a portrait?

While many use the terms interchangeably—go for it!—there are some slight differences between headshots and portraits. If you want to get technical, portraits are actually a type of headshot. However, generally speaking, headshots are more professional and portraits are more creative. Both have a place in the business world, as well as non-corporate uses.

What’s the purpose of a headshot?

Headshots are commonly used in various professional contexts, such as on business websites, social media profiles, acting and modeling portfolios, corporate branding, and even personal branding.

Unlike traditional portraits, which might include more creative elements or a broader view of the subject, headshots are usually more focused and minimalistic, emphasizing clarity and detail.

Individual

Some headshots are meant to highlight an individual. There are tons of reasons for this—maybe it’s a founder or C-level executive, a LinkedIn profile photo, or a business owner. These photos could be used for profile pages, about us pages, and more.

The Who We Are Project, for example, has an individual headshot of its founder on its “our team” page. You can see the photo was clipped and/or masked, isolating the subject and putting it on a different background.

The Women’s Eagles rugby team also has individual headshots on its website. In this example, there are many individual headshots to showcase each of the players on the team.

Group

Team headshots involve multiple people. In some cases, the whole group is on-site to take the photo together. In others, the photos are taken individually and later clipped and composited to be one group photo.

For example, one sports photographer we work with on clipping paths and retouching takes both team and individual photos of 16 different sports teams for each season. That’s a lot of headshots!

Corporate and business

Corporate headshot photography is a very common type—think real estate agents, investors, and C-suite executives. They’re often on a simple plain background or with some sort of effect that makes them look impressive.

These headshots typically go on companies’ about us pages, on LinkedIn profile pages, and similar avenues. Here’s how marketing agency Salted Stone uses business headshots to showcase its team:

Actors and models

Actors and models also need headshots. These headshots vary a bit from the other types of headshots because you often want to see more personality and creativity here. Think about it this way: If someone is a comedian and they’re trying to land “funny” acting roles, their headshots are likely to showcase a more casual, smiley, and even goofy personality. Whereas professional corporate headshots tend to be more streamlined and straightforward.

Likewise, models going after beauty brands or fashion gigs will go for a headshot that casts them in that light, like in this example below:

Beauty and glamor shots

There’s a lot of overlap between beauty and glamor shots and actor or modeling headshots, but there are some slight differences. For example, beauty and glamor shots aren’t always necessarily to land an acting or modeling gig.

Beauty and glamor shots could be used by people for personal reasons—first day of school, graduation, dance recitals, etc. These are often for personal reasons rather than business purposes (though there are always exceptions!)

Dating profiles

Dating profiles are emerging as a key niche in the headshot industry as more people warm up to the idea of meeting a potential partner online. This means people are also putting more energy into what their dating profiles say and how they represent themselves. One great way to upgrade a dating profile is with a professionally shot and edited headshot.

Types of headshots + examples

We covered the different reasons for headshots, now let’s look at four core types:

1. Close-up headshot
2. Half-body headshot
3. Three-quarter headshot
4. Full-body headshot

Close-up shot

The close-up shot is arguably the most traditional type of headshot, and is likely the first type of photo that comes to mind when you think of headshots. It’s tightly framed, focusing on the subject’s face, often from the shoulders up. The background is usually simple or blurred to keep the attention on the subject’s features.

Here’s an example of a close-up headshot:

Half-body headshot

The half body headshot typically starts somewhere around the waist and covers everything from the waist up. You might see these in more casual headshots or photos that show context in the background, like in this half-body headshot example below:

Three-quarter headshot

A three-quarter headshot will start somewhere around the thigh. These are very common for models and actors in particular.

Full-body headshot

The full-body headshot shows everything—from the feet to the top of the head. This is often used when context is important. It’s rare to see a full-body headshot on a plain white or neutral background. Models definitely need all four kinds of headshots, with an emphasis on full-body shots.

Cost of headshot photography

Asking “how much does a headshot cost?” is similar to asking “how much does a car cost?” The prices vary depending on many factors, including:

• How many shots you want
• How many different looks you have
• Whether it’s on-site or at the photographer’s studio
• Whether edits and retouching are included
• Number of subjects
• Location and prices in that market

We researched many different photographers’ pricing and found the range is quite wide—typically anywhere from $75 to a few thousand dollars. According to this reddit thread, most expect it to be around $200–$400 for a standard headshot session with one or two subjects.

Tips for amazing headshots

Keep the following headshot photography tips in mind:

Equip yourself

When preparing for amazing headshots, it’s essential to equip yourself with the right gear and knowledge. While technically speaking, you can take your headshot photo with a smartphone, a mirrorless or DSLR camera will give you the best result. A smartphone headshots can appear pixelated or blurry if it’s stretched out to a larger size than the original file.

Here’s a quick-hitting list of equipment to consider for headshot photos:

• Camera (DSLR or mirrorless)
• 50mm lens
• Tripod
• Memory card
• Lights: studio light, speedlight, strobe
• Umbrella
• Diffuser
• Popup backdrop
• Posing stool

Get the lighting right

Proper headshot photography lighting can make all the difference. Natural light often offers a softer, more flattering look, while studio lighting gives you control and consistency. Both have their advantages depending on the setting and desired outcome. The way you use light depends on how you want your headshots to look.

Put the subject at ease

Often, the subjects in your headshot photos aren’t used to being in front of a camera. The photographer can play a key role in making them feel more comfortable, allowing you to shoot natural-looking headshots.

You don’t want to shoot someone who feels uncomfortable, as that discomfort will come through in the final shot.

Here are some ways to help your subject feel at ease:

• Talk about the poses to use before the shoot. Show examples if you can!
• Offer guidance for clients on how to style their hair, makeup, and skincare.
• Suggest wardrobe and accessories. Encourage them to bring a few options. Regardless of the style of headshot, you’ll want to stick with solid colors—patterns can render awkwardly and be distracting.
• Recommend your subject to rest and hydrate prior to the shoot.
• Talk to your subject to help them ease up.

It’s also important to get any signed photo release forms before you do the shoot, if needed.

Select the right wardrobe and setting

We’re going to expand on the wardrobe selection, as well as discuss backgrounds and props.

When offering guidance on attire, think about the goal of the headshot. If it’s a CEO, they might wear a neutral colored suit and tie. If it’s an actor, they might wear something more casual and timeless. There’s really no “best clothes for headshots” because it varies so much.

The same rings true for backgrounds. While neutral white, gray, and blue backgrounds were status quo for a while, headshots are getting more creative. You can use a bright color for more personality, black for drama, and real-life settings to give some context.

Here’s an awesome comparison of a great headshot vs. a not-so-great headshot of two different CEOs:

Make edits—but don’t go too heavy

While you want to do your best to capture the perfect shot, there are likely to be some required edits. Be careful not to go overboard here—you don’t want an overly edited photo that looks like AI or gives an obviously false impression of the subject.

Some headshot edits you might make include:

• Blur the background
• Retouch any imperfections that are temporary, like a hair out of place, a pimple, or bags under the eyes
• Remove the background so the photo can be used in a variety of ways
• Fix exposure
• Adjust white balance

Remember, it’s okay to fix imperfections, but the goal is to create a natural-looking headshot.

Know where you’re going to use the headshot

Perhaps this should be the first consideration: where and how will the headshot be used? Understanding context can help you get the perfect photo. A dating profile headshot, for example, will be more casual than a CEO’s headshot for the company’s about page.

You’ll also want to think about other elements where the headshot will be published. For example, is it going to be featured with other headshots? You might find some synergy with each individual, like on Humaan’s about page:

5 best headshot photographers to hire

There are tons of options to hire a headshot photographer. You’ll likely want to find someone local to you. Here are some of our top recommendations to help you get started in your search:

Alana Luntz

Chicago-based Alana Luntz offers corporate and business headshots in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. She also does engagement sessions, family portraits, dating profile headshots, and event photography.

Alycee Byrd

Alycee Byrd is a North Carolina-based fashion and portrait photographer who “uses her knowledge of natural light to create naturalistic and dynamic portraits.” Her love for fashion and creativity comes through in all her work. In addition to fashion, portraits, and headshots, Alycee also shoots live music and lifestyle photography.

Malena Vasquez

Based in the Miami area, Malena Vasquez is a professional photographer offering corporate and actor headshot. She also shoots branding photos and contemporary portraits.

Sarah Miller

Sarah Miller is a Philadelphia-based commercial photographer. She offers headshots in her home studio or at your location of choice (within her area). She also has an impressive portfolio full of all kinds of commercial photography—including branding sessions, food photography, product photography, and more.

Vanie Poyey

Vanie Poyey is a Los Angeles-based photographer who specializes in headshots for actors. She also provides professional headshots for businesses. She’ll provide guidance on what to wear so your shots land you the gigs you’re after.

Edit your headshots to perfection with Path

When fine tuning your headshots, a close eye for detail is important. You don’t want to leave your edits up to some faceless AI technology that requires manual review—and often further edits to refine its mistakes. That’s where Path comes in.

We carefully execute every single edit by hand. No shortcuts or compromising quality here. And we’re available around the clock, so you can get your edits back in as little as 6 hours!

Headshot photography FAQs

How to take a good headshot picture?

To take a good headshot, focus on the following:

• Lighting: Use natural light or soft artificial light. Avoid harsh shadows or direct sunlight.
• Background: Opt for a neutral background that doesn’t distract from your face.
• Pose and angle: Position the camera at eye level, and slightly angle your shoulders for a more dynamic look.
• Expression: A relaxed and confident expression works best. A slight smile can be inviting and approachable.
• Wardrobe: Choose solid colors or subtle patterns that complement your skin tone. Avoid busy patterns or logos.

How much is the average headshot?

The cost of a professional headshot varies depending on the photographer’s experience, location, and package offerings. On average, headshot sessions can range from $150 to $500. High-end photographers or those in major cities may charge more, while DIY or basic options could be cheaper.

What is the best pose for a headshot?

The best pose for a headshot is natural and relaxed. Angle your shoulders slightly away from the camera, with your head turned towards the lens. Keep your posture straight but not stiff, and ensure your facial expression is confident and approachable. Experiment with different angles to find your best side.

Do you smile in a headshot photo?

Smiling in a headshot can be beneficial, as it portrays warmth, approachability, and confidence. However, the type of smile depends on the industry and impression you want the headshot to make. A slight, natural smile is often ideal, while a more serious expression might be appropriate for certain professional contexts.

How often should headshots be updated?

You should update your headshot every 1–2 years or whenever your appearance significantly changes (e.g., different hairstyle, weight change, or new glasses). Regular updates ensure your headshot remains an accurate representation of your current self.

What should you avoid wearing in a headshot?

• Bright or neon colors
• Busy patterns
• Logos
• Overly casual attire
• Excessive jewelry or accessories
• Trendy outfits

How long does a headshot session typically take?

A typical headshot session lasts between 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the number of looks or outfit changes, and the photographer’s process. Quick sessions may take only 15-30 minutes, while more involved sessions with multiple backgrounds and wardrobe changes can take longer.

What’s the difference between professional headshots and DIY headshots?

Professional headshots are taken with high-end equipment, ensuring better lighting, focus, and overall image quality. DIY headshots may lack this polish. A professional photographer will also guide the subject on posing, expressions, and wardrobe to get the best shot, while DIY requires self-direction. Professional headshots also often include retouching to enhance the final image, whereas DIY photos may require you to edit them yourself.

The post What Is Headshot Photography? Cost, Types, and Examples (2024) appeared first on Path Edits.

But how can you get the best? Read on for practical tips to become a good headshot photographer—covering everything from pre-shoot preparation to post-processing.

Headshot photography tips to keep in mind when shooting

Headshot photography is a collaborative process. A professional portrait photographer will interact with subjects, help them feel at ease, and even capture spontaneous moments like a mid-laugh. Or you might be taking headshots on your own.

While photo editing skills are important, planning should also be a part of your process. Let’s break a headshot session down step-by-step so you can refine each stage and deliver results you’ll be excited to share.

Consider the style of the headshot

Start by understanding the purpose of the headshot. This insight will guide your decisions on location, styling, and composition, so the final image aligns with your needs.

Think about:

• Style: Do you need a polished corporate image or a more relaxed, creative one?
• Location: Would shooting outdoors, in a studio, or at a workplace best suit the vision?
• Destination: How will you use the images? Do you need a landscape photo with space for text on a website homepage or a shot that looks good as a square profile photo?
• Included elements: Should the images incorporate branded props, signs, or specific backgrounds?

Remember, even people in the same industry may need vastly different headshots. For instance, sustainable clothing brand Finisterre features its founder, Tom Kay, in a gritty, monochrome outdoor shot. In contrast, ethical clothing designer Ella Griffee opts for a relaxed, welcoming studio portrait. Understanding the purpose of the shot and learning about your client’s unique needs will help you plan the shoot.

Pick (or create) a neutral background

The subject should be the focal point of every awesome headshot, which is why neutral backgrounds are ideal. Here’s how to achieve this effect:

• Indoor shots: Use a neutral wall, fabric, paper, tablecloth, curtain, or sheet. No need for expensive backdrops.
• Outdoors shots: Look for simple, neutral backgrounds like walls, columns, or building steps. Avoid overwhelming elements such as brick walls, graffiti, or shop signage.
• Dynamic backgrounds: Cityscapes or nature can work as a background if they fit the shoot brief. Position your subject with ample space behind them to blur the background.

The National Women’s Law Center, for example, uses a mix of background styles for its board of directors’ headshots, all of which look equally professional.

Add props if needed

Less is often more when it comes to including props in professional headshots. The goal is to make the subject take center stage without overshadowing them or making the image look contrived. In some professions, props can add value to a headshot—like medical professionals, creatives, educators, chefs, craftspeople, athletes, and fitness experts.

Remember these key points when considering props:

• The prop should be an authentic part of the professional’s daily work
• It should be subtle and not dominate the image
• The prop should be in good condition and high-quality
• Avoid clichéd or overused props that might make the image look dated or unoriginal
• When in doubt, take shots both with and without the prop to give the subject options

Set up your light source

Natural light or a studio setup? Your choice of light source will depend on the type of headshot, location, photography style, and technical experience. But as a general rule, don’t overcomplicate it. Unless you’re going for a dramatic, creative shot, focus on creating a natural, flattering look.

If you opt for natural light:

• Aim for diffused lighting to avoid harsh shadows on the subject’s face. You can diffuse light using white or sheer fabric in front of a window or use the transparent part of a multi-use reflector.
• If needed, add a reflector to reduce shadows. Use it on either side or angled in front of the subject to reduce under-eye shadows.
• Experiment with head-on light from the window or outdoors when the sun is lower and slightly angled from the side, or place the subject in front of the sun.

You’ll find plenty of setups for artificial lighting, depending on your budget, skill, and available equipment. Remember, artificial lighting can be harsh, so soften it using modifiers. Softer light works for most business scenarios—like in the headshot below—but some clients might request harsher light for a more dramatic look.

Use a tripod for taking your own headshots

Do you want to create your own headshots on a budget? No problem—just make sure you’ve got a tripod and either a remote release or a timer on your camera or phone.

However, a tripod can also be handy for photographing clients. How does it work? Position your subject, for example, on a stool, and set up your camera focused on the client. Then, plug in a remote release or connect a wireless one. Now, you can freely interact with your subject, talk to them, and press the shutter button when their expression is just right.

Change poses and expressions

Getting the setup right is half the challenge. The next step is posing your client and giving them gentle cues, which will take your photo from good to great. Guide your client through poses and facial expressions to create various images. Start with simple poses, like a slight head tilt in different directions, to help clients relax their bodies.

Many people feel self-conscious when asked to smile or laugh, so gradually ease into more complex expressions. As you change poses and expressions, vary your compositions too. This is particularly important if your subject needs different images from the same location, giving you a set of options.

Review images as you go

It’s easy to get caught up in the shoot without checking any images on the back of your camera. But make sure you take brief pauses to review what you’ve shot. Zoom in to see if the subject’s eyes are in focus. Also, check for any unwanted reflections if your client wears glasses. Handling reflections for headshots is similar to photographing reflective products.

Reviewing your photos and test shots allows you make minor adjustments you may otherwise miss, such as changing light position, client’s pose, or your composition. It’s better to shoot a few more photos than not have enough.

How to edit a headshot to look professional

You’ve done your best to get the light right, and your client looks great in the photos. What’s next? Photos straight from the camera might have all the necessary elements, but editing headshots will add that final touch for a professional result.

Apply basic edits

To get started, apply lens corrections. This will fix any distortions or vignetting your lens might create. Then, adjust the exposure and white balance settings for a neutral look. Check if your image needs to be cropped, too.

In the example below, we applied lens correction and slightly reduced the exposure so the subject had more facial definition.

If something still doesn’t look quite right, try fine-tuning other settings. Adjust sliders for highlights, whites, shadows, and blacks. For more precise control, manipulate the tonal curve. Most professional editing apps, like Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, and Capture One, offer these adjustments.

Reduce blemishes and enhance skin texture

You don’t need to be an expert retoucher to edit a great-looking headshot. When retouching your photos, use Photoshop tools like Spot Healing Brush Tool or Lightroom’s brushes to apply local adjustments to the subject’s face.

For example, you might want to remove temporary blemishes and stray hairs, brighten eyes, lightly soften skin texture, or fix unwanted shine, like in the image below.

But remember, everyone has skin texture, which is entirely normal. Sharp lenses and unflattering lighting can make it more prominent, so keep your edits natural. And before you edit any permanent features, such as moles or scars, always consult your client first. Removing those could drastically change their appearance.

Check for reflections on glasses

Reflections can be an artistic choice, but not when visible on your subject’s glasses and covering their eyes. If your headshot has reflections you didn’t notice during the shoot, you might be able to rescue the image. As long as the reflection doesn’t fully cover the subject’s eyes, you can use a mix of Photoshop’s Spot Healing Brush Tool and Clone Stamp to remove it.

Smooth any clothing wrinkles

Even with the best intentions, some clients may still arrive with an outfit that needs an iron. Or there might be a slight wrinkle on their shirt that neither of you noticed. Either way, you can fix clothing wrinkles in Photoshop using the tools mentioned above. You can also outsource the task if you don’t have time to work on it.

Remove background imperfections

Are you shooting outdoors? The buildings or walls in the background may not be as polished as indoor backdrops. You might encounter some spots, dirt, scratches, or small graffiti or stickers.

But it’s a relatively easy fix! Use the Spot Healing Brush Tool or Generative Fill in Photoshop, and you can remove any background imperfections.

Remove or change background color

Does your client want a different background color for their new LinkedIn profile photo? Or maybe they need a few on-brand color variations for headshots across different marketing channels? You can change the background color with no need to reshoot.

For same-color backgrounds, you can easily change the color in Photoshop or remove the background entirely, using clipping path or masking.

Add more blur to the background

It’s not always possible to blur the background as much as desired—it could be because of the lens used or the subject and background distance. But sometimes, it might be the one thing that’s missing from your photo to make the subject stand out.

You can fix this in Lightroom using a couple of methods:

• Masking tools: Head into the Masking section and click on Select Background. Lightroom will automatically create a mask for the background, which you can use to reduce clarity, sharpness, and texture to soften and blur the background.
• Lens Blur: If you have the latest app version, try the new AI Lens Blur tool in your Develop module. The app will analyze the image and apply smart lens blur. You can control the blur amount and bokeh style or refine it further using brushes.

For more precise blur, you can use Photoshop and work with layers.

Headshots that boost careers and land sales

Commissioning a professional headshot is a business investment for your clients. So, it’s crucial to develop all the skills needed to create a professional result—from technical understanding to artistic vision and even soft skills to build rapport with your subjects.

You’ll improve each one with time. But if you need help with post-production, you can outsource the tedious editing tasks to our experienced retouchers at Path. 

How to make a headshot look professional FAQs

How do you make a headshot look good?

To make a headshot look good, opt for a neutral, simple background. Ensure proper lighting (natural or artificial), and focus on the subject’s eyes. In post-production, focus on natural edits: lightly soften skin, brighten eyes, remove any temporary blemishes, flyaway hair, or wrinkled clothing.

How do you look professional in a headshot?

• Wear appropriate, non-distracting clothing
• Ensure neat grooming
• Maintain good posture
• Vary between different expressions, from neutral to smiling
• Make eye contact with the camera
• How do you make a good professional headshot?.
• Understand the client’s needs and industry
• Choose appropriate lighting and background
• Guide the client to relax and express themselves naturally
• Take multiple shops with slight variations
• Apply professional editing techniques

How to turn a photo into a professional headshot?

1. Crop the image to draw focus on the face
2. Adjust exposure, contrast, and color balance
3. Remove blemishes and shine
4. Enhance eyes
5. Blur or replace background if necessary
6. Make sure the image looks natural and not over-edited

How to pose for a professional headshot?

Stand or sit up straight with shoulders back. Angle your body slightly away from the camera and tilt your chin down slightly to avoid unflattering angles. Relax your facial muscles for a natural expression. Make eye contact with the camera as you go through different expressions (smiling, serious, approachable). Don’t be afraid to express your personality.

The post Headshot Photography Tips to Make Your Portraits Look Professional appeared first on Path Edits.

Once you’ve done the hard part—professional lighting, composing, and connecting with the person in front of your camera—it’s time to finish the headshot in post-production. The good news? You don’t need to be an experienced editor. That’s why we’ve curated nine simple editing tips to instantly improve your headshots.

9 headshot photography editing tips

For headshots of any kind, you’ll want an editing app that lets you apply local adjustments using brushes and masks. Most professional-grade editing software, such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, Capture One, and ON1 Photo Raw have similar editing software options. They might be called differently, but they will perform the same. Pick your favorite and follow the steps below.

1. Apply lens and composition corrections

Different lenses can introduce various distortions and vignetting to your headshots. Wide-angle lenses may warp facial features, while telephoto lenses compress perspective. Some lenses naturally darken image corners. Correcting these lens-specific issues should be the first step so the image appears clean and balanced.

In Lightroom, head to the Lens Corrections tab and click on Profile. Here, you can turn on Enable Profile Corrections. The app will automatically match it to your lens, but if it doesn’t find the correct lens profile, simply search for it in the Make dropdown.

2. Basic adjustments: exposure and white balance

It’s not always possible to get perfect exposure and white balance in the camera, especially if you shoot in more challenging lighting conditions, like bright sun. But even when shooting in a studio versus a DIY headshot, you’ll want to apply all the basic adjustments before color grading or editing skin.

The example below shows a slightly underexposed image. Shooting conditions included bright sun and underexposing to avoid blowing out highlights.

In the editing process, basic Lightroom adjustments for a headshot like this included:

• Moving the Temperature slider towards yellows to introduce more warmth
• Increasing Exposure to brighten the overall image
• Reducing Highlights to maintain detail in the white background and the jacket fur
• Reducing Shadows and Blacks to make skin more vibrant

You can also use the tone curve to make more precise tonal adjustments. These foundational adjustments create a solid base for further editing, ensuring your subjects look their best while maintaining a natural appearance.

3. Enhance skin texture using brushes

A digital professional camera can pick up a lot of sharp texture on your subject’s skin. This may be great for pixel-perfect detail shots, but when you look at others in reality, you don’t see skin in such sharp detail.

Using brushes lets you slightly soften the skin texture without going overboard. The key is to achieve a natural, flattering look that maintains the subject’s unique features while minimizing distracting imperfections.

In Lightroom, navigate to the Masking section at the top right of your editing toolbar and select the Brush tool.

Now, you can use the brush to paint over the areas you want to enhance. Depending on how intensely you wish to edit problem areas, you can adjust the brush size, feather, and other features. Make sure to avoid painting over the eyes and lips.

You’ll end up with a mask similar to the example below. The red indicates the areas that will be affected when you make adjustments. Hit the O on your keyboard to hide the red overlay so you can see your adjustments.

Scroll down to the Effects section, and start by lightly reducing Texture. You can also adjust Clarity and sliders in the Tone section, but make sure the result appears natural, doesn’t hide facial features, and complements skin tone.

4. Fix temporary skin blemishes

Getting ready for a headshot session can be stressful, and it’s not always possible to conceal every skin blemish. But as a photographer, your task is to put clients at ease, including delivering photos that show them at their best. Removing any temporary skin blemishes can positively affect anyone’s confidence.

Make sure you don’t erase permanent features, such as moles, scars, freckles, and others. When in doubt—always ask clients first.

Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom both offer tools to heal or clone. For example, in Photoshop, you can use:

• Spot Healing Brush Tool: remove marks and blemishes
• Healing Brush Tool: paint pixels from another part of the image over the problem area
• Clone Stamp Tool: performs similarly to Healing Brush Tool but doesn’t match texture and shading

In the example below, the Spot Healing Brush Tool was used to reduce its size to match the blemishes, and applied it to several spots.

The result is subtle but effective. The image remains natural, but removing temporary blemishes enhances its overall polish. This shows how minor edits can significantly improve a headshot while maintaining authenticity.

5. Brighten eyes

Brushes can subtly enhance eyes and make them pop, just as they improve skin texture. This technique is especially effective when the subject is lit from behind or the side, often creating shadows around the eyes.

In Lightroom, select the Brush tool and carefully brush over the subject’s eyes. Adjust settings based on lighting and eye color:

• Increase exposure
• Add clarity
• Enhance sharpness
• Boost saturation

You can also increase contrast, but be careful not to over-darken the irises. If this happens, reduce the shadows.

6. Bring out detail in eyelashes

This goes hand in hand with the previous tip of brightening eyes. Lightly brush over the subject’s eyelashes with a brush that has contrast, clarity, and sharpness applied. Depending on the eyelash darkness and the subject’s makeup, try increasing the shadows and blacks.

7. Fix stray hairs

You don’t have to worry about fixing every hair, but sometimes a stray hair can land on your subject’s face and run across their eye or mouth. To remove it, head into Photoshop and make sure to zoom in.

Take the Spot Healing Brush Tool, match the brush size to the hair thickness and brush over it. You might need to do this in stages to control the result, especially when you brush over the eye.

8. Remove other distracting elements

You might have some unwanted elements in the photo, such as wall signs or backdrop wrinkles. For the most part, it’s an easy fix. But for business and professional headshots where the background is essential to the context, check with your client first—they might want you to keep their brand signage in.

You can use all the same tools used for fixing skin blemishes or try Photoshop’s Generative Fill. It uses AI and constructs three options for you to pick from. Just make sure you have the latest Photoshop version installed so you can access this feature.

Then, pick one of the Marquee or Lasso tools and tightly select the problem area. Click on Generative Fill and leave the description blank before hitting the Generate button.

Photoshop will generate three variations, which you can click through or click to generate again if you don’t get a suitable result. How simple was that! This method may not always work if you have more challenging elements to remove.

You might also need to remove the background if the client requests it. This could be useful for various marketing purposes, such as changing the background color on a LinkedIn profile picture to match the branding. You can do this in Photoshop or outsource complex edits to experts.

9. Try Lightroom’s built-in preset

The latest version of Adobe Lightroom offers native color and adaptive presets, which you can also try introducing in your workflow. The adaptive portrait presets will only adjust specific areas—eyes, lips, eyebrows, beard, hair, and clothes, similar to how you manually use a brush.

Any presets you apply can have their opacity adjusted, and you can use them before or after performing all other edits, depending on your preference.

If you use presets for color grading, you’ll likely need to reduce the preset amount for a natural result. For example, we selected the VCR06 preset in the Video:Creative section and reduced the amount to 40.

You don’t have to leave the result as is, either. After applying presets, you can adjust the tone curve, change color grading, and more to make it match your signature style.

Simple editing workflow for headshots that sell

Who says you need to spend hours editing one headshot? While expert retouchers have their place in high-end publications, don’t let that discourage you from capturing and editing headshots yourself. Applying just a few of these simple tips can significantly improve your images, creating results that will please your clients.

The goal isn’t perfection but enhancing your subject’s best features while maintaining their natural appearance. With practice, these edits will become quick and intuitive, allowing you to produce quality headshots that stand out and generate more leads. 

Headshot photography editing tips FAQ

How can I edit my portraits to look better?

To improve your portrait edits:

• Adjust exposure
• Apply lens and composition corrections
• Use brushes to soften skin texture
• Brighten eyes
• Remove temporary blemishes and distracting elements

How should you edit headshots?

You should edit headshots by applying lens corrections, adjusting exposure and white balance, enhancing skin tone, and brightening eyes. Always match the edit to the image’s purpose and subject’s style. For corporate headshots, maintain a polished, professional look. For creative professionals, allow for more personality.

Is it okay to edit headshots?

Yes, editing headshots is not only acceptable but often expected. Professional editing enhances image quality and presents subjects at their best. Remember to maintain authenticity by avoiding excessive alterations. Focus on subtle improvements like adjusting exposure, removing temporary blemishes, and enhancing features to create a timeless, professional result.

How should headshots be edited?

Edit headshots lightly to maintain a natural look. Start with basic adjustments, such as exposure and white balance. Then, move on to skin smoothing and eye enhancement. Use brushes for local fixes and consider removing temporary blemishes or distracting elements. Always highlight the subject’s unique features and avoid over-editing.

How do I make my headshot look professional?

For a professional headshot, apply clean, subtle edits. Focus on proper exposure and color balance, lightly soften skin texture, and brighten eyes. Check for any distracting elements, such as hair over eyes, or temporary blemishes. Consider the purpose of the headshot—corporate shots call for a polished look, while more creative ones allow for more personality.

How do I edit a photo to make it look professional?

To edit a photo for a professional look, start by cropping to improve composition and focus attention on the subject. Next, apply lens corrections and adjust exposure and white balance. Use brushes for local adjustments and tools that remove temporary blemishes or distractions. Use color grading tools for a cohesive look, but don’t overdo it.

How to touch up a professional headshot?

To touch up a professional headshot, focus on subtle fixes:

• Apply lens correction and adjust exposure
• Use brushes to soften skin texture
• Brighten eyes and sharpen eyelashes
• Remove temporary blemishes, flyaway hair or distracting elements
• Consider adding color grading for a professional finish

The post How to Edit a Professional Headshot: 9 Tips appeared first on Path Edits.