Paring The Photography With The Copy
So, should
I smile or…
It’s easy to assume a professional headshot must include a nice big smile. After all, you’re so nice! But when you consider context, that smile may not be the best idea (see above).
Beyond destroying your message, a happy-go-lucky smile might just not be right for your business. Even if you are nice, it may be the other facets of your personality that make you valuable to your prospective clients.
Here are ten examples of headshots working well with popular captions, while suiting the personality of the professional accurately.
1. Award Winning Practice
There was a phrase I heard in sports growing up that was directed to winners - “act like you’ve been there before”. I liked it because it implies a respect for the game, and the opponent. This expression offers confidence and pride, in a way that doesn’t over-celebrate or come off giddy.
2. Top 100 In Illinois 2023
This is an amazing accomplishment, so a little attitude in the eyes plays well.
3. Fighting For You
Anything less than a game face will defeat the purpose of using such strong copy.
4. Managing Partner & CEO
Distinguished, poised, powerful and natural.
5. Get In Touch
Bright colors and teeth smiles are a great energy for inviting conversation.
6. Schedule A Consultation
Similar to “get in touch”, but with more purpose on business development. This common call-to-action requires an expression that looks relaxed and honest. Nobody wants to book a consultation with someone that seems aggresive.
7. What Clients Are Saying
A teeth smile is tempting, but it’s far more professional to keep it reserved on this one because it seems like you expect this of yourself, and aren’t giddy.
8. Let’s Connect
Social media is all about personality, so this is a great time to show something candid.
9. Serving Clients In Over 50 Countries
I don’t claim to be an expert on foreign cultures, but everyone in the world knows this is a friendly face. The dark background and outfit implies sophistication one wants from an employee working in other territories.
10. $20 Billion In Settlements
Unlike the candid laughing shot at the very top, this image captures the accomplishment in a way that means business.
None of these examples should be too shocking, and that’s the point. The words you read and the face you see resemble how you would expect someone to look while saying those words.
When the words and images do NOT align, you get something like this:
Devoted To Justice
As you certainly know by now, the copy is calling for a much more serious tone.
Effective use of imagery is how branding takes advantage of human psychology. While individuals might not overtly think “this person seems like they will fight for me because of the way the headshot has shadowing, a dark background etc..”, but the brain will pick up on the “scene” and associate it with other heroic images with similar aesthetics.
To discuss how different visuals can reinforce your specific branding and messaging, feel free to schedule a discovery call.
