The difference between a headshot and portrait, and tips for getting a new one.
Portrait /// Erin Berry /// 2020
Headshots, portraits, and environmental portraits each serve a different purpose.
Headshots
Headshots are typically used for professional networking sites and business websites along with your bio. You are looking at the camera and the emphasis is on your face. You’ll notice that in the photo below you can only see my facial expression and it doesn’t ‘say’ much about me but that I am a white woman and likely energetic.
Headshot /// Erin Berry /// In Studio ‘21
Portraits
Portraits give more context by giving a glimpse into the subject’s life—they can even tell a story as they are typically a more candid photograph. Portraits are often used more broadly, especially across social media. While I am inside in this photograph, you can tell I enjoy being active, love Patagonia, and am very casual… this says a lot about me, but just wait!
Portrait /// Erin Berry /// In Studio ‘21
Environmental Portraits
Environmental portraits, similar to lifestyle photography, show your lifestyle by illuminating your surroundings. They are often taken in or around your home or where you work —in your environment — and maybe even doing your craft or practicing a hobby. From this photo, you now know that I am an ‘eco warrior’... I love being outdoors, care about the environment, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
Environmental Portrait /// Erin Berry /// Quiet Waters Park ‘22
5 tips for getting a new headshot or portrait
1. Do a little research.
Use Google, Pinterest, social media, etc. for some examples of what you do and don’t like–poses, background colors, outdoors or indoors, etc. It’s a helpful exercise for both you and the photographer as most will ask for some examples and input upfront.
2. Plan what to wear.
Picking out the right outfit shouldn’t be too difficult. Wear something you already know you look great in! You certainly don’t need to run out and buy a new outfit. If you're having a multi-location session, make sure to pack several outfits you love, and if you don't have several then this might be the time to shop around town. Jewelry can be tricky — go all in if you’re used to it and it’s part of who you are, but we usually tell folks to keep it simple.
3. Rethink heavy make-up.
I know it’s tempting for some to apply heavy foundation to try and hide any lines or wrinkles, but trust me when I say less is better the older you are. The more make-up, the more imperfections, shadows, and lines become noticeable. Don’t forget that post-production offers an opportunity to do any corrections or blemish removal.
Stay away from SPF in your moisturizer as it has a shimmer that cameras don’t love. I tell clients to put on night cream the day of their photoshoot — the dewiness will be perfect as the base for your light make-up. And make sure to apply your eye make-up as your first step, not your last (yes, before your foundation or powder). This way you’ll be able to keep the area around your eyes clean without unwanted make-up and mascara residue.
4. All about the eyes.
Eyes are the focus because a good photographer will be able to bring your photo to life through your eyes! So, make a few plucks or even get a wax, but make sure to do it days in advance to avoid any puffiness or redness. And don’t wear sunglasses or glasses the day of your session unless you’ll be wearing them for the entirety of your photo shoot.
5. Put in a little practice.
Put on that outfit and practice some poses in the mirror. Do you want a full smile or a more serious look? Nailing the perfect smile comes more naturally for some than others (I am one of these others!), but all it takes is a little practice and a good night’s sleep.
In the end, the idea is to look like yourself in your new headshot or portrait. Your photo represents who people will meet!
