Stop Scaring Candidates: Why Your Team’s Headshots Are Hurting Talent Acquisition

If you’re investing heavily in employer branding, recruiting campaigns, and talent acquisition—but your team’s headshots look like a mix of DMV photos, blurry phone selfies, and decade-old portraits—you’re quietly undercutting your own efforts.

Candidates don’t just read your job descriptions; they look at your people. They judge whether they can see themselves working alongside your team. And in a market where top talent has options, the wrong visual cues can push great candidates away before they ever click “Apply.”

From the perspective of a headshot and corporate imaging team that works with companies every week, let’s unpack how your current headshots might be hurting recruiting—and what to do about it.


1. Candidates Read Headshots as Culture Signals

Most organizations think of headshots as a “nice-to-have” profile picture for the website. Candidates see something very different:

  • Are these people approachable?
  • Does this company look organized and modern—or dated and chaotic?
  • Do any of these people look like someone I’d want to work for or with?

When headshots are inconsistent or poorly executed, they send the wrong signals:

  • A mix of lighting styles and crops suggests no clear standard or no one is paying attention.
  • Harsh, unflattering images can come across as cold, rigid, or overly corporate—even if your culture is actually collaborative and supportive.
  • Casual phone photos next to polished portraits scream “we don’t treat everyone equally” or “this isn’t important to us.”

Whether you intend it or not, your visuals communicate your culture long before your recruiters do.


2. Inconsistent Headshots Erode Trust and Professionalism

You’ve spent years building a brand voice, visual identity, and messaging platform. Your logo, fonts, and color palette are all controlled.

Then a candidate visits your “About” or “Team” page and sees:

  • Some people in studio-lit portraits
  • Others in random office snapshots
  • A few in vacation or wedding photos cropped into circles
  • A handful of obviously outdated images from another era

That disconnect is jarring. It quietly raises questions:

  • If they can’t manage their own visual standards, what else is loosely managed?
  • If this is their outward-facing image, what does it look like on the inside?

Good candidate experience is about trust. Professional, consistent headshots tell candidates, “We care about details—and we’ll likely care about the details that matter to you, too.”


3. Outdated Images Undermine Your DEI Story

Many organizations are working hard to present a more inclusive, diverse, and current picture of their workforce. But your headshots may not be keeping up.

Common problems:

  • Old photos that don’t match reality – People who left the company are still on the website, while newer hires aren’t represented at all.
  • Significant appearance changes – Hair, glasses, style, and even age differences can make a photo feel misleading.
  • Leadership-only updates – Executives have polished new portraits while the rest of the team looks like an afterthought.

For candidates paying attention to representation and authenticity, this creates friction. If the visual story doesn’t align with the current culture and workforce, your DEI messaging rings hollow.

A modern, regularly updated headshot program ensures everyone is shown as they are now—not as they were five or ten years ago.


4. Bad Headshots Increase Anxiety and Hurt Candidate Confidence

Put yourself in a candidate’s shoes. They’re about to interview with three people whose photos appear on your website and LinkedIn.

What they see:

  • A stern, overly dramatic headshot with heavy shadows and no smile
  • A dimly lit image where the subject looks exhausted or unhappy
  • An awkward pose that feels cold or confrontational

Even if those people are kind, collaborative leaders in reality, the visual impression says something else: intimidating, rigid, maybe even unpleasant.

Candidates might:

  • Over-rehearse and show up guarded
  • Assume the environment is overly formal or unforgiving
  • Decide to withdraw entirely if your competitors appear more welcoming

Headshots should reduce anxiety and humanize your team—not scare candidates away before they’ve met you.


5. Internal Inequities Show Up on the Team Page

Candidates are smart. They notice when:

  • Senior leadership photos are carefully lit and retouched
  • Mid-level managers have decent photos
  • Support staff, operations, or frontline employees have poor or no visual representation

That hierarchy of image quality hints at a hierarchy of value. It can unintentionally suggest:

  • Some roles are worth investing in visually; others are not
  • Not everyone is equally important in your story
  • Certain departments, locations, or demographics are second-tier

For recruitment—especially for roles outside of leadership—that’s a problem. A better approach: set a uniform headshot standard for everyone, regardless of title. When everyone is photographed well, you’re telling candidates, “Every person here matters.”


6. Visual Incoherence Slows Down Recruiting Operations

Beyond perception, inconsistent headshots create real operational drag:

  • Every time an offer is accepted, someone asks: “How do we get a headshot for the website and LinkedIn?”
  • Marketing, HR, and IT trade emails trying to find the “least bad” photo in someone’s camera roll.
  • Different recruiters give different instructions: “Use your LinkedIn photo,” “Just send whatever you have,” “We’ll figure it out later.”

This costs time and delays. Worse, it means your brand and your employer image are never truly under control.

A standardized, professionally produced headshot system streamlines this:

  • New hires know exactly what to expect.
  • Talent acquisition simply plugs into an established process.
  • Marketing always gets correct file formats, sizes, and naming conventions.

It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about making recruiting faster and smoother.


7. What “Candidate-Friendly” Headshots Actually Look Like

So what does a headshot system that helps talent acquisition look like in practice?

A. Approachable, not stiff

  • Natural, genuine expressions (not forced smiles or blank stares)
  • Slight angle to the body rather than rigid, straight-on posing
  • Eyes clearly visible and engaged with the viewer

B. Clean, consistent backgrounds

  • A unified studio look or a consistently blurred office environment
  • No visual clutter, harsh patterns, or distracting elements
  • Background tones that complement skin tones and your brand palette

C. Flattering, honest lighting

  • Professional lighting that opens up the eyes and minimizes harsh shadows
  • Careful handling of glasses, hair, and different skin tones
  • Balanced retouching that respects authenticity—no plastic skin or unrealistic alterations

D. Alignment with your culture

  • More formal, structured looks for certain industries (financial, legal, healthcare)
  • Slightly looser, modern energy for tech, creative, and innovation-driven teams
  • Visual style that matches the voice and tone of your employer brand materials

When done well, a candidate browsing your website should think, “These people look like real professionals—and like people I could actually talk to.”


8. Building a Headshot Program That Supports Talent Acquisition

A recruiting-friendly approach to headshots isn’t a one-off photo day; it’s a system.

Step 1: Create a headshot style guide

Document:

  • Crop, orientation, and framing
  • Background style and color
  • Lighting approach and overall mood
  • Wardrobe recommendations
  • Retouching standards

This becomes the visual equivalent of your brand guidelines—specifically for people photography.

Step 2: Align HR, marketing, and leadership

Make headshots an integrated part of:

  • Onboarding
  • Employer brand and careers content
  • Leadership communication and PR

When everyone understands the value, it’s easier to allocate time and budget regularly—not just as a one-off.

Step 3: Schedule recurring headshot sessions

  • In-office headshot days for larger teams
  • Studio sessions for leadership and specialized roles
  • Options for remote hires to visit the studio or be photographed on designated days

This keeps your imagery current and prevents the “one and done… from eight years ago” problem.

Step 4: Centralize delivery and access

Ensure final files are:

  • Delivered in consistent formats and sizes for web, print, and LinkedIn
  • Named and organized in a way your team can search and update easily
  • Accessible to HR, talent acquisition, marketing, and design teams

A good production partner will build this workflow with you so your internal team isn’t reinventing the wheel every time.


9. The Payoff: Headshots as a Recruiting Asset, Not a Liability

When you stop treating headshots as an afterthought and start seeing them as a strategic employer branding tool, several things happen:

  • Candidates feel more at ease and more curious about your team
  • Your careers page, LinkedIn presence, and leadership materials all look aligned
  • Recruiters and hiring managers have a stronger visual story to support their outreach
  • Your organization looks like what it truly is—professional, modern, and people-focused

You can’t control every variable in talent acquisition. But you can control how your people are presented to the world.


How St Louis Headshot Photographer Can Help You Stop Scaring Candidates

Designing and executing a headshot program that supports talent acquisition takes more than just a camera and a backdrop. It requires a partner who understands brand consistency, candidate perception, and the realities of busy executives and teams.

That’s where we step in.

Experienced St Louis Headshot Photographer is a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company with the right equipment and creative crew service experience for successful image acquisition. We offer full-service studio and location video and photography, as well as editing, post-production and licensed drone pilots. St Louis Headshot Photographer can customize your productions for diverse types of media requirements. Repurposing your photography and video branding to gain more traction is another specialty. We are well-versed in all file types and styles of media and accompanying software. We use the latest in Artificial Intelligence for all our media services to enhance consistency, streamline delivery, and extend the life of your content.

Our private studio lighting and visual setup is perfect for small productions and interview scenes, and our studio is large enough to incorporate props to round out your set when your concept calls for it. We support every aspect of your production—from setting up a private, custom interview studio to supplying professional sound and camera operators, as well as providing the right equipment—ensuring your next video production is seamless and successful. We can even fly our specialized drones indoors when your project benefits from dynamic, controlled aerial perspectives.

As a full-service video and photography production corporation, since 1982 St Louis Headshot Photographer has worked with many businesses, marketing firms and creative agencies in the St. Louis area for their marketing photography and video. If you’re ready to stop scaring candidates and start using headshots as a powerful recruiting asset, we’re ready to help you design, implement, and maintain a system that works—for your brand, your team, and the talent you want to attract.

314-913-5626
Mike Haller
Studio by appointment: 4501 Mattis Road 63128

Common Headshot Mistakes Lawyers Make—And How to Avoid Them.

In the legal profession, credibility, trust, and authority are everything. Whether you’re a solo practitioner or part of a national firm, your image—quite literally—matters. Your headshot isn’t just a photograph; it’s a tool that shapes perception. For attorneys, especially those who are client-facing, media-visible, or part of leadership, a poor headshot can silently erode the trust you’ve spent years building.

At St Louis Headshot Photographer, we’ve worked with countless law firms and attorneys over the decades. What we’ve found is that even the most detail-oriented legal professionals often overlook common mistakes in their headshots. Let’s break down the most frequent missteps and what firms can do to correct them.


Mistake #1: Using an Outdated or Inconsistent Headshot

Lawyers often put off updating their headshots for years. If your headshot is more than five years old or no longer resembles your current appearance, it can send the wrong message. Clients might subconsciously question your attention to detail—or feel a disconnect when meeting you in person.

The fix: Make updating headshots a regular part of your firm’s brand management cycle. Ensure all attorneys have recent, cohesive, and consistent images that reflect your current brand and culture.


Mistake #2: Inconsistent Team Presentation Across the Firm

A common issue for larger law firms is the “mismatched portrait syndrome”—where some attorneys have professional headshots, others have smartphone selfies, and some reuse cropped family photos. This inconsistency undermines the firm’s image and sends mixed messages to clients and partners.

The fix: Standardize your headshot process. Use the same lighting setup, background style, posture guidance, and expression coaching for each attorney. This creates brand cohesion and visual harmony on your website, pitch materials, and professional profiles.


Mistake #3: Posing Too Formally or Too Casually

The courtroom is formal, but your photo doesn’t need to look stiff or robotic. On the flip side, being too relaxed or quirky can hurt perceptions of competence and seriousness—especially in high-stakes practice areas like litigation, estate law, or corporate governance.

The fix: Strike a balanced tone. We guide attorneys into confident, approachable poses that convey both competence and professionalism. Posture, facial expression, and wardrobe play huge roles here—and we provide expert direction during each session to ensure the image aligns with your professional identity.


Mistake #4: Poor Lighting and Background Choices

Legal headshots demand a refined, distraction-free look. Harsh shadows, overly bright lighting, or cluttered backgrounds can degrade even the best-dressed attorney’s image. Natural light may work in some cases, but not when it sacrifices clarity or color balance.

The fix: Use a controlled studio or custom office setup with professional lighting designed specifically for portraiture. At St Louis Headshot Photographer, our private studio and mobile setups are calibrated to produce flattering, high-resolution portraits that print and publish cleanly across all platforms.


Mistake #5: Over-Retouching or Lack of Retouching

Excessive editing can make attorneys appear artificial or insincere. On the other hand, not retouching at all can leave distracting blemishes, flyaway hairs, or inconsistent tones that detract from the overall image.

The fix: Choose tasteful, professional retouching. We specialize in subtle post-production that enhances without altering. Skin tones stay natural, suits remain crisp, and the overall image remains polished—perfect for both print and digital use.


The Bigger Picture: Your Headshot Is a Brand Asset

For law firms, professional headshots aren’t just a “nice to have”—they’re essential branding assets. They appear in press kits, speaking engagement bios, website team pages, legal directories, LinkedIn profiles, and beyond. A bad headshot doesn’t just reflect poorly on the individual—it can weaken the credibility of the firm as a whole.


Why St Louis Headshot Photographer Is the Right Partner for Law Firms

At St Louis Headshot Photographer, we’ve specialized in producing high-impact portraits for professionals since 1982. We understand the nuances that separate a standard headshot from one that truly resonates in legal, corporate, and professional settings.

We’re not just photographers—we’re visual strategists. Our full-service commercial photography and video production company offers:

  • Custom studio and on-location photography
  • Professional lighting and custom backdrops
  • Expert posing and styling guidance
  • Subtle, high-end retouching
  • Full editing and post-production services
  • AI-enhanced workflow for accuracy and efficiency
  • Indoor drone services for branding assets and office overviews
  • Repurposing services to tailor your images and video content across print, web, and social media

Our private studio lighting and visual setup is ideal for attorneys looking for a quiet, professional space for refined portraits. Need custom branding visuals, marketing video content, or consistent team headshots across multiple offices? We’ve got it covered with scalable solutions and a creative crew that knows how to execute flawlessly.

From custom interview studios to full legal marketing asset creation, we support every aspect of image acquisition with precision, discretion, and professionalism.


Don’t let a simple photo send the wrong message.
Invest in headshots that reflect the integrity, experience, and credibility of your legal practice.

Work with St Louis Headshot Photographer—where image meets impact.

314-913-5626
Mike Haller
4501 Mattis Road 63128

saintlouisbusinessportraits@gmail.com

What to Wear for a Headshot That Gets Noticed: A Professional Guide

When it comes to making a lasting impression, your headshot speaks volumes before you ever say a word. Whether you are refreshing your company’s leadership page, updating your LinkedIn profile, or preparing marketing materials, the right headshot can enhance your brand’s credibility and approachability. However, achieving a standout headshot doesn’t rely solely on the photographer’s skills — what you wear plays a pivotal role too.

At St Louis Headshot Photographer, we’ve worked with countless professionals, executives, creatives, and teams to create headshots that truly resonate. Here’s our expert advice on how to choose the perfect wardrobe to ensure your headshot gets noticed — for all the right reasons.


1. Keep It Timeless, Not Trendy

Fashion trends come and go, but your headshot may serve you for several years. Choose classic pieces that reflect a professional image without dating your photo quickly. Solid colors, simple cuts, and clean lines are always safe bets. Avoid loud patterns, neon colors, or overly trendy pieces that can distract from your face.

Pro Tip: Navy, gray, black, and earth tones work well for a broad range of industries and skin tones, providing a polished and enduring look.


2. Focus on Fit

Ill-fitting clothing is one of the fastest ways to undermine a professional image. Clothes that are too baggy can make you appear sloppy, while overly tight clothing can look uncomfortable. Your wardrobe should complement your form without overpowering it.

Pro Tip: Before your session, try on your outfits and move around in them. You should feel confident, relaxed, and unrestricted.


3. Mind Your Neckline and Collar

Your face should be the star of your headshot. Avoid overly elaborate necklines, deep plunges, or extremely high collars that can compete for attention.

Men: Stick with well-pressed collared shirts. Depending on your brand, you may choose a jacket and tie or a more relaxed look without a tie.
Women: Choose tops or dresses with modest, structured necklines that frame your face beautifully without overwhelming it.


4. Choose the Right Colors

Color has a powerful psychological effect. Muted tones project professionalism and reliability, while bold colors can convey creativity and energy. Select colors that enhance your skin tone and eye color but avoid overly bright or reflective materials.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure, bring a few options. Our experienced photographers at St Louis Headshot Photographer will help guide you on-site for the best choice under our professional lighting.


5. Consider Your Brand Image

Your attire should align with your personal or company brand. A financial consultant may opt for a sharp blazer and tie, while a creative entrepreneur may feel more authentic in smart-casual attire. Think about the message you want to send and dress accordingly.

Pro Tip: Imagine your ideal client or audience — dress the way you would to meet them for the first time.


6. Grooming and Accessories Matter

Small details make a big difference. Well-groomed hair, neat facial hair, and subtle makeup help polish your overall appearance. Keep accessories minimal — small earrings, classic watches, and subtle jewelry are ideal.

Pro Tip: Avoid shiny or reflective accessories that could catch studio lights and distract from your face.


7. Bring Options

We always recommend bringing 2-3 outfit choices to your headshot session. This allows for flexibility depending on lighting, background, and your final image goals.

Pro Tip: Pack your clothes on hangers to avoid wrinkles and have a lint roller on hand for last-minute touch-ups.


Why Trust St Louis Headshot Photographer for Your Professional Headshots?

At St Louis Headshot Photographer, we understand that creating an exceptional headshot is both an art and a science. With decades of experience as a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, we have the right equipment, creative expertise, and service-minded approach to ensure successful image acquisition every time.

We offer full-service studio and location video and photography, including expert editing, post-production, and licensed drone pilot services. Our private studio lighting and custom visual setups are perfect for small productions and interview scenes, with a spacious studio environment that can accommodate props and customized sets.

We’re also deeply experienced in repurposing your photography and video branding to give your marketing efforts more traction across platforms. Well-versed in all file types, styles of media, and accompanying software, we stay ahead by using the latest in Artificial Intelligence technologies to enhance our photography and video services.

Whether you need a private custom interview studio setup, professional sound and camera operators, specialized indoor drone services, or complete production equipment, we have everything you need to make your next photography or video production perfect.

Since 1982, St Louis Headshot Photographer has been trusted by businesses, marketing firms, and creative agencies across the St. Louis area to deliver outstanding visual content that drives results. Let us help you create a headshot that doesn’t just get noticed — it makes a statement.

314-913-5626 Mike Haller

saintlouisbusinessportraits@gmail.com

Simple Steps to Plan Your Next Headshot

Headshots are a vital element of your professional image. They can significantly influence first impressions and impact how your brand is perceived. Whether you’re updating your corporate team photos or preparing for an individual profile picture, planning is essential to ensure the final result aligns with your objectives. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your next headshot effectively:

1. Define Your Objective

Start by identifying the purpose of your headshot. Are you aiming for a professional LinkedIn profile, a corporate website, or a promotional material? Understanding the intended use will guide many decisions, including style, background, and attire.

2. Choose the Right Photographer

Selecting an experienced photographer is crucial. Look for someone who specializes in headshots and has a portfolio that resonates with your vision. At St Louis Headshot Photographer, we have a long history of delivering high-quality headshots tailored to various business needs. Our team combines technical expertise with creative insights to ensure your headshot makes the right impact.

3. Prepare Your Wardrobe

Choose attire that reflects your professional role and the image you want to project. For a corporate setting, classic and neutral colors often work best. Avoid busy patterns or overly bright colors that can distract from your face. If you’re unsure, our photographers can offer guidance on wardrobe choices that will complement your headshot’s overall look.

4. Consider the Background and Lighting

The background of your headshot should enhance, not detract from, your image. A clean, professional backdrop is generally preferred for corporate headshots. Lighting plays a crucial role in highlighting your features. At St Louis Headshot Photographer, we use advanced lighting techniques to ensure your headshot looks polished and professional.

5. Grooming and Personal Presentation

Pay attention to grooming before your photo session. A fresh haircut, clean shave, or well-maintained makeup can make a significant difference in how your headshot turns out. Our team can provide tips on preparing for your shoot to ensure you look your best.

6. Communicate Your Vision

Discuss your vision and preferences with your photographer. Share any specific requests or ideas you have for your headshot. Clear communication helps in achieving the desired outcome and ensures that your headshot aligns with your professional goals.

7. Schedule Your Session

Plan your session at a time when you can be relaxed and focused. Avoid scheduling on a busy day to ensure you have the time and energy to fully engage in the process. Our studio at St Louis Headshot Photographer is equipped with private lighting setups and ample space to accommodate props, making it an ideal environment for your headshot session.

8. Review and Select Your Photos

After the shoot, review the proofs and select your preferred images. Our team will assist you in choosing the best photos that meet your objectives and provide editing services to enhance the final result.

9. Utilize and Repurpose Your Headshots

Once you have your final headshots, use them effectively across various platforms. Repurposing your headshots for different media types can maximize their impact. Our expertise in media and branding ensures your headshots are optimized for diverse applications.

Why Choose St Louis Headshot Photographer?

At St Louis Headshot Photographer, we bring decades of experience to every project. Since 1982, we have been delivering high-quality headshots and comprehensive video production services. Our full-service approach includes studio and location video and photography, editing, post-production, and licensed drone pilots. We customize productions to meet diverse media requirements and excel in repurposing photography and video branding to enhance traction.

Our private studio features advanced lighting and visual setups ideal for small productions and interview scenes. We also offer extensive equipment options, including specialized indoor drones. Whether you need a custom interview studio setup, sound and camera operators, or any other production elements, we have the expertise and resources to make your next video production perfect.

For a professional headshot that captures your best image and aligns with your business goals, trust St Louis Headshot Photographer to deliver exceptional results.


Feel free to reach out if you need more information or to schedule your session!

314-913-5626 Mike Haller

saintlouisbusinessportraits@gmail.com

How to Get Ready for Your Next Headshot: Simple Steps You Can Follow

When it comes to creating a lasting impression in today’s visually driven world, a professional headshot is a critical tool. Whether it’s for a LinkedIn profile, company website, or corporate materials, your headshot is often the first visual connection people have with you. As decision-makers responsible for securing photography and video production services, it’s important to understand how to best prepare for a headshot session, ensuring your image captures your professional essence.

Share your goals and preferences with your photographer beforehand. Whether you need a more formal, traditional look or something modern and creative, clear communication ensures your expectations are met.

Why Professional Headshots Matter

A headshot is more than just a photograph; it’s a representation of your personal brand. In corporate settings, it communicates your professionalism, approachability, and confidence. A high-quality headshot can set the tone for how clients, colleagues, and partners perceive you and your organization.

Preparing for Your Headshot Session

1. Choose the Right Outfit

  • Professional and Polished: Opt for attire that aligns with your industry and company culture. Solid colors are generally a safe bet, avoiding overly busy patterns or distracting prints.
  • Fit and Comfort: Ensure your clothing fits well and feels comfortable. If you’re uncomfortable in your attire, it will likely show in your photos.
  • Accessories: Keep accessories minimalistic. Avoid anything that could detract from your face or create unnecessary distractions.

2. Grooming and Appearance

  • Hair: Schedule a haircut a week before your session to allow time for it to settle. For men, a clean shave or neatly trimmed beard is recommended.
  • Makeup: For those wearing makeup, keep it natural. The goal is to enhance your features, not overpower them.
  • Skincare: Moisturize well in the days leading up to the shoot to keep your skin looking its best. Avoid experimenting with new skincare products right before your session to prevent unexpected reactions.

3. Rest and Hydrate

  • Sleep: A good night’s sleep before your session will help you look rested and refreshed.
  • Hydration: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to the shoot. Proper hydration helps your skin look vibrant and healthy.

4. Practice Your Expressions

  • Relaxed and Natural: Spend some time in front of a mirror practicing your smile and expressions. The goal is to appear relaxed and confident.
  • Posture: Pay attention to your posture. A straight back and relaxed shoulders can make a significant difference in how you come across in your headshot.

5. Discuss Expectations with Your Photographer

  • Communicate Your Needs: Share your goals and preferences with your photographer beforehand. Whether you need a more formal, traditional look or something modern and creative, clear communication ensures your expectations are met.
  • Understand the Process: Familiarize yourself with the shoot’s workflow, including any post-production editing that will be done. This helps in setting the right expectations and reduces any post-session anxiety.

The Role of Your Photographer

A skilled photographer does more than just take pictures—they guide you through the process, ensuring you feel at ease and capturing your best self. At St Louis Headshot Photographer, our approach is rooted in understanding the unique needs of our clients, ensuring that every headshot we produce is a true reflection of the individual’s professional identity.

The Day of the Shoot

  • Arrive Early: Give yourself enough time to settle in and get comfortable before the session begins.
  • Relax and Trust the Process: Once the shoot starts, trust your photographer’s expertise. They will guide you through different poses and expressions to capture the best shots.

Post-Production and Final Review

After the session, the post-production process is where the magic happens. Professional editing can refine your images, ensuring they are polished and aligned with your brand image. It’s also an opportunity for you to review the shots and provide feedback, ensuring the final product is exactly what you envisioned.

Why Choose St Louis Headshot Photographer?

At St Louis Headshot Photographer, we pride ourselves on being a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company with decades of experience in the industry. Our extensive equipment and creative crew service experience ensure successful image acquisition tailored to your specific needs.

We offer studio and location video and photography, along with editing, post-production, and licensed drone pilots. Our expertise in repurposing photography and video branding helps you gain more traction across various media platforms. We are adept in all file types, styles of media, and accompanying software, ensuring seamless integration into your existing branding materials.

Our private studio is perfect for small productions and interview scenes, large enough to incorporate props for a well-rounded set. We support every aspect of production, from custom interview studio setups to providing sound and camera operators, to supplying all necessary equipment. Whether it’s indoor drone flights or traditional photography, we have everything needed to make your next project perfect.

Since 1982, St Louis Headshot Photographer has partnered with businesses, marketing firms, and agencies throughout the St. Louis area, delivering corporate photography and video services that consistently exceed expectations. Let us help you make your next headshot session a seamless and successful experience.


Choosing the right headshot photographer is crucial, and with our comprehensive services and experienced team, St Louis Headshot Photographer is equipped to meet and exceed your expectations. Contact us today to discuss how we can help elevate your professional image.

Five common questions about headshots.

Are you gearing up for an important headshot session? Whether you’re a business professional, actor, model, or simply looking to update your online presence, getting the perfect headshot is crucial. But, understandably, you might have questions about what to expect and how to prepare. That’s where we come in! As a premier St. Louis headshot photographer, we’re here to guide you through the process and ensure you get headshots you’ll love. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll address some of the most common questions clients have before their headshot sessions.

Experiment with different angles to find your most flattering side. Most people have a preferred side of their face, so don’t be afraid to communicate your preferences to your photographer.

1. What should I wear for my headshot?

Choosing the right outfit for your headshot can make a significant difference in the final result. Here’s our advice:

  • Opt for solid colors: Solid colors tend to photograph better than busy patterns, which can be distracting. Choose colors that complement your skin tone and reflect your personality and brand.
  • Dress professionally: Whether you’re going for a corporate look or a more casual vibe, aim to dress in attire that reflects your industry and the image you want to convey.
  • Consider layers and textures: Adding layers or textures can add visual interest to your headshot. Blazers, cardigans, and scarves can all help add dimension to your outfit.
  • Avoid logos and large jewelry: Logos and large jewelry can be distracting and may take the focus away from your face. Keep accessories simple and understated.

2. How should I pose for my headshot?

Feeling comfortable and confident in front of the camera can make a world of difference in your headshots. Here are some posing tips:

  • Relax: The key to a great headshot is to look natural and at ease. Try to relax your shoulders and jaw, and avoid tense or forced expressions.
  • Practice your angles: Experiment with different angles to find your most flattering side. Most people have a preferred side of their face, so don’t be afraid to communicate your preferences to your photographer.
  • Engage with the camera: Whether you’re looking directly at the camera or off to the side, make sure to engage with the lens. A genuine smile or a subtle expression can make all the difference in capturing your personality.

3. How long will the session take?

The duration of your headshot session can vary depending on various factors, including the complexity of the shoot and any additional services you’ve requested. Generally, headshot sessions typically last anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours. During this time, we’ll work together to capture a variety of poses and expressions to ensure we get the perfect shot.

4. Do you offer retouching services?

Yes, we offer professional retouching services to enhance your headshots and ensure you look your best. Our retouching services can include blemish removal, skin smoothing, color correction, and more. We believe in enhancing your natural beauty while maintaining a realistic and authentic look.

5. When will I receive the final photos?

We understand that you’re eager to see your final headshots, and we strive to deliver them to you in a timely manner. Typically, you can expect to receive your edited photos within one to two weeks after your session. However, we’ll provide you with a more specific timeline based on our current workload and any additional editing requests you may have.

In conclusion, preparing for a headshot session doesn’t have to be daunting. By following these tips and trusting in the expertise of your St. Louis headshot photographer, you can rest assured knowing that you’ll walk away with headshots that capture your personality and professionalism. So, are you ready to shine in front of the camera? Reach out to us today to schedule your headshot session!

314-913-5626 Mike Haller

saintlouisbusinessportraits@gmail.com

Unveiling the Art of Product Photography: Strategies for Success

In the digital age, where visual content reigns supreme, the importance of high-quality product photography cannot be overstated. Whether you’re selling a physical product, showcasing your services, or simply building your brand’s image, captivating imagery plays a pivotal role in grabbing attention and driving engagement. As decision-makers in the realm of photography and video production services for businesses and organizations, it’s crucial to understand the strategies that underpin successful product photography. Let’s delve into the art and science behind creating imagery that captivates, engages, and ultimately converts.

Experiment with various angles and perspectives to showcase your products from unique vantage points, offering viewers a comprehensive understanding of their features and benefits.

Understanding Your Audience and Brand Identity

Before embarking on any photography endeavor, it’s imperative to understand your target audience and brand identity. What aesthetic appeals to them? What emotions do you want to evoke? Aligning your visual content with your brand’s values and the preferences of your audience is paramount for resonating with them effectively.

Lighting: The Key to Stunning Product Imagery

Lighting is arguably the most critical aspect of product photography. Whether you opt for natural light or artificial lighting setups, mastering light manipulation is essential for highlighting the features and textures of your products. Experimenting with different lighting angles, diffusers, and reflectors can dramatically alter the mood and visual impact of your photographs.

Composition and Framing

Composition is the art of arranging elements within a frame to create visually appealing images. When photographing products, pay attention to composition principles such as the rule of thirds, leading lines, and negative space. Experiment with various angles and perspectives to showcase your products from unique vantage points, offering viewers a comprehensive understanding of their features and benefits.

Consistency is Key

Consistency in style, lighting, and composition across your product photography portfolio is crucial for building brand recognition and trust. Establishing a cohesive visual identity not only strengthens your brand image but also enhances the overall browsing experience for your audience.

Editing and Post-Production

Post-processing plays a vital role in refining your product images to perfection. Whether it’s adjusting exposure, enhancing colors, or removing imperfections, skillful editing can elevate your photographs to professional standards. However, it’s essential to strike a balance between enhancement and authenticity, ensuring that your images accurately represent your products.

Repurposing Content for Maximum Impact

Once you’ve captured stunning product imagery, don’t let it go to waste. Repurposing your photographs across various marketing channels and platforms can amplify their reach and impact. From social media posts and website banners to email newsletters and print materials, leverage your visual assets to create a cohesive brand narrative and drive engagement.

In conclusion, mastering the art of product photography requires a blend of creativity, technical expertise, and strategic thinking. By understanding your audience, harnessing the power of lighting, refining your composition, maintaining consistency, and leveraging post-production techniques, you can create compelling imagery that captivates your audience and drives business success.

As a full-service video and photography production company, St Louis Headshot Photographer has worked with many businesses, marketing firms, and agencies in the St. Louis area for their corporate photography and video. If you’re looking to elevate your brand’s visual presence and drive engagement through stunning imagery, contact us today to discuss how we can tailor our services to meet your unique needs.

Contact St Louis Headshot Photographer for all your commercial photography and video production needs. Let us bring your vision to life with our expertise and creativity.

314-913-5626 Mike Haller

saintlouisbusinessportraits@gmail.com