We Are Not Throwing Away Our Shot! | Tips for Headshots and Lifestyle Shoots

Written By: Chelsea and Cynthia

A great headshot is an essential asset for performers, but today’s online world demands more than the traditional shoulders-up shot. To fully capture your personality and versatility, consider broadening your portfolio with lifestyle photos, which can enhance your online presence and brand. Here, we’re sharing our hard-won wisdom from recent experiences to help you plan and execute a photo session that provides all the content you need.

Why Planning Your Photo Shoot Matters

When it comes to photos, early action is helpful, but early planning is key. Without a plan, it’s easy to overlook important shots, poses, or styles you may need later on. A well-thought-out approach can save you time, help you make the most of your photographer’s expertise, and ensure you come away with media you’re excited to use.

From detailed shot lists to finding color palettes that work, a little preparation can make all the difference. Here’s how to get started.

1. Think Beyond the Headshot

Consider what types of photos you need beyond the classic headshot. Perhaps you want casual lifestyle shots for your website, professional B-roll video, or action shots to use on social media. If you’re already investing in a shoot, maximize the opportunity with a mix of photos. Don’t limit yourself to head-and-shoulder shots; think about expressions, full-body poses, and different settings that show your personality.

If you’re able, get a few wide shots as well. Having blank space around you in photos allows for easy addition of text or design elements, which is particularly useful for websites and promotional content.

2. Collect Pose Inspiration

Finding pose inspiration in advance is crucial, especially for lifestyle or full-body shots that you may not be used to. Browse online for inspiration that aligns with your personality and brand, then create a checklist of poses or expressions you want to try. For duos or groups, plan poses that match your purpose (e.g., professional partners vs. casual friends) to avoid overly formal or awkward looks.

A specific list will help you stay organized and make sure you get the shots you want without wasting time during the shoot.

3. Practice Posing

Getting comfortable in front of the camera can make all the difference, and practicing in advance will help. Set up your phone on a tripod, record yourself posing, and note how different angles, expressions, and lighting affect the final look. Seeing yourself on camera helps build confidence and can show you what poses or expressions you like best. Even experimenting with dramatic expressions or poses you wouldn’t usually try can help you discover a natural, relaxed look on the day of the shoot.

4. Choose Your Colors Carefully

A well-chosen color palette can elevate your photos and highlight your personality. Consider which colors look best on you or resonate with your brand. If your website has a specific color theme, incorporate similar tones in your wardrobe or backgrounds to maintain brand consistency. Some people use color analysis to identify which season (spring, summer, fall, or winter) complements their skin tone and use that as a guide for wardrobe choices.

For background colors, think about how they’ll complement or contrast with your outfit to create a cohesive look. For example, wearing an orange outfit against an orange backdrop may sound unconventional but can make for a striking, stylish look.

5. Plan Every Detail of Your Outfits

Down to the accessories, shoes, and hairstyles, plan each look carefully. Even small elements like jewelry or shoes can add polish and make the difference between a good and a great photo. Have a list of each outfit and accessory in your notes app to stay organized, and decide which background or location you want to use with each outfit.

Try on each outfit before the shoot to confirm it fits and feels as great as you remember. Avoid last-minute wardrobe surprises by testing out all clothing and accessories ahead of time.

6. Create a Detailed Shot List

A shot list helps keep you organized and ensures you make the most of your time. Work with your photographer to select backdrops, plan shots in advance, and even assign time blocks for each outfit and background combination. Pre-visualizing your looks with your chosen backdrops can also help. Some smartphones, for example, have features that let you create “stickers” from photos, which you can layer over backdrop colors to test out combinations.

Organizing every shot in advance allows you to work efficiently on the day, saving time and maximizing your photographer’s expertise.

7. Do a Practice Shoot

If you’re feeling nervous, arrange a practice session with a friend who can take photos on their phone. It’s a relaxed way to experiment with expressions, poses, and outfits. Even without professional equipment, iPhone cameras are high-quality and allow you to get used to being in front of the lens. Practice looking in different directions, adjusting your posture, and capturing both serious and playful expressions.

A practice shoot can help ease pre-session nerves, allowing you to approach your actual session with more confidence and creativity.

Bonus Tip: Don’t Be Afraid to Start Small

If you’re not ready to book a professional shoot, start with an iPhone photo session with a friend. You can get some amazing shots using natural light and experimenting with settings, backgrounds, and poses. This is a great way to build a portfolio of casual lifestyle shots and experiment with what works for you before investing in a professional session.

Capturing Your Best Self

A successful photo shoot requires more than just showing up and smiling. Taking time to plan your looks, poses, and shots—and practicing with a friend—will help ensure you leave with photos that reflect your unique personality and style. Whether you’re building your professional portfolio, refreshing your website, or enhancing your social media, these tips can help you feel prepared, confident, and ready to capture your best self.

For more headshot and branding inspiration, check out our Instagram to see behind-the-scenes from our recent photo shoots.

If you're interested in diving deeper into this mindset or exploring other interesting musical theatre conversations, check out the Broadway Vocal Coach podcast! Or check us out on Instagram, and get involved in the conversation! 

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