Corporate Headshot Poses That Work
As a full-time headshot photographer for over a decade, I’ve coached countless clients into their best poses—and I’m here to share my go-to tips for looking polished, confident, and approachable.
As a full-time headshot photographer for over a decade, I’ve coached countless clients into their best poses—and I’m here to share my go-to tips for looking polished, confident, and approachable. If you need a full crash course to prep for your headshot, check out my Headshot Maximizer Course. Use the code SMILE for $30 off.
Standing Poses for Chest-Up Crops
These poses are ideal for LinkedIn profiles, social media avatars, and email signatures. Your hands won’t be visible in the frame, so keep them relaxed at your sides or in your pockets. Make sure your shoulders don’t creep up—relax them! A few notes:
Push your forehead slightly toward the camera and lower your chin (without tucking).
Maintain direct eye contact with the camera.
For variations, add a slight turn to the left or right, bringing your head back around to face the camera. This angle works for most body types. Or, play with your head turn slightly—but stop short of 90 degrees.
Keep your smile natural, no need to overdo it.
Standing Vertical Poses
These vertical poses, framed from the hips up, are versatile for multiple crops—perfect for website bios, marketing materials, or group composites of your team. Remember to:
Hinge forward slightly at the waist.
Mix up your hand positions: one in a pocket or resting naturally at your side.
Shift your weight from one foot to the other for a relaxed stance.
For additional variations, turn slightly to one side and bring your head back around for audience engagement. For an even more polished look, place a hand on your jacket button, as if buttoning it. Keep your fingers relaxed and avoid making a fist. Check out the video for a few additional tips on these vertical options.
Try Multiple Poses
Not every pose works for every body. Your movement, body type, and clothing all play a role. Trying a few options ensures you’ll find the pose that makes you look your best.
Remember, If you need extra preparation, check out my Headshot Maximizer Course for detailed advice on everything from posing to headshot usage tips.
Canon R5ii Quick Take
When Canon announced the R5 Mark II, I wasn’t planning to upgrade. My R6 Mark IIs are perfect for headshot work—most of my clients use their images on LinkedIn or websites, where ultra-high resolution isn’t a concern. However, after giving it some thought (and a few tests), I realized there are a few situations where the extra resolution and features are game-changers.
Should You Upgrade to the Canon R5 Mark II?
When Canon announced the R5 Mark II, I wasn’t planning to upgrade. My R6 Mark IIs are perfect for headshot work—most of my clients use their images on LinkedIn or websites, where ultra-high resolution isn’t a concern. However, after giving it some thought (and a few tests), I realized there are a few situations where the extra resolution and features are game-changers.
Resolution Matters
For most headshot work, the R6 Mark II’s resolution is more than enough. But when it comes to group shots, sports photography, or tight crops of wider portraits, that extra resolution can save the day. It’s also a reassurance for clients who expect top-tier quality and flexibility. Plus, avoiding extra Photoshop steps to upscale images is a nice bonus.
Autofocus That Thinks Faster Than You Do
Canon’s autofocus system in the R5 Mark II lives up to the hype. Testing it during soccer games, I was blown away by the action-priority mode. It seemed to anticipate the play, locking focus on the ball and players with incredible speed.
The Eye AF is also impressive, especially for erratic movement or group subjects like dancers. It doesn’t replace knowing your subject, but it’s a tool that delivers where it counts.
RAW Files: Big and Better Options
Canon RAW files from the R5 Mark II are massive, but I’m a fan of the compressed RAW (CRAW) option. It cuts file sizes in half without sacrificing visible quality in Lightroom, perfect for high-volume shoots like sports. I’ve tested this format extensively, and it’s a solid compromise between resolution and storage efficiency.
Video: A Step Up
I’ve been dabbling more in video, and the R5 Mark II offers some compelling features, like Canon Log 2 for incredible dynamic range. The addition of a full-size HDMI port is a game-changer for corporate work—no more fumbling with adapters in conference rooms. The digital hot shoe and Canon’s compact shotgun mic make capturing audio a breeze, ideal for events where ambient sound tells half the story.
Battery and Build: A Few Caveats
Canon’s updated battery comes with a catch—some features are restricted with older batteries, so stock up (if you can find them). I also discovered that my R6 Mark II SmallRig cage doesn’t quite fit the R5 Mark II—something to consider if you’re heavily invested in accessories.
Is It Worth the Upgrade?
If you’re a headshot photographer like me, the R5 Mark II might not be essential. But if you shoot group portraits, sports, or video—or simply want the versatility of higher resolution—it’s a worthwhile upgrade. Just keep the battery situation and accessory compatibility in mind.
What about you? Are you upgrading to the R5 Mark II? Let me know in the comments or reach out—I’d love to hear your thoughts.
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Canon 35mm f1.4 L VCM Quick Take
When Canon released their new hybrid 35mm 1.4, I didn’t think it was for me. As a headshot photographer, 35mm is a bit too wide for my usual work. However, with some interesting video-centric features like an iris control ring, I decided to give it a try.
Canon’s 35mm 1.4 L VCM Lens, Is It Worth It for a Headshot Photographer?
When Canon released their new hybrid 35mm 1.4, I didn’t think it was for me. As a headshot photographer, 35mm is a bit too wide for my usual work. However, with some interesting video-centric features like an iris control ring, I decided to give it a try.
Currently, the only other hybrid lens in Canon’s lineup with the iris control is the 24-105 f2.8 L USM Z, which is amazing. But it looks like new lenses might be announced any day now!
While I enjoy the 35mm 1.8 for its affordability and macro capabilities, it’s not ideal for video, so this new 1.4 seemed worth a test.
Field Testing the Lens
I’ve used the new 35mm 1.4 during high school senior sessions, dance clinics, and soccer games. It also worked great for lifestyle portraits of my dogs and son. The compact design makes it a fantastic walkaround lens, and the custom button on the barrel adds some nice flexibility (though I’m still deciding the best use for it!).
How Does It Perform?
For pet portraiture, especially action shots of my dogs, this lens really shines. The autofocus is fast and accurate, ensuring a high hit rate—just keep that shutter speed high. In senior portraits, it’s perfect for environmental shots but a bit wide for close-up headshots.
And I even recorded this video using the new lens. What do you think?
Should You Get It?
If you’re doing video work on Canon RF mirrorless or cinema cameras, this lens is a no-brainer. The performance and f1.4 aperture (with manual iris control) are ideal for video applications. Still photographers, if you’re happy with your current 35mm, this lens might not be life-changing. But if you’re considering an upgrade, you won’t be disappointed.
Learn more about corporate headshot options.
Got more headshot questions? Check out the headshot FAQs.
Canon RF 24-105 f2.8 L IS USM Z Initial Review
When Canon released the new 24-105 f2.8 RF lens, I was initially uninterested. My experience with the 28-70 f2 lens was underwhelming due to its limited range and awkward size. However, in situations where f2.8 is necessary, f4 simply doesn’t cut it. So, I decided to give the new lens a second look.
Since moving to Canon a few years ago, the 24-105 f4 lens has been my go-to workhorse lens. Its compact size and versatile focal range cover about 90% of what I need for most of my paid studio work. While an f2.8 aperture isn’t essential for my needs, owning the 70-200 f2.8 has shown me the perks of a faster lens.
When Canon released the new 24-105 f2.8 RF lens, I was initially uninterested. My experience with the 28-70 f2 lens was underwhelming due to its limited range and awkward size. However, in situations where f2.8 is necessary, f4 simply doesn’t cut it. So, I decided to give the new lens a second look.
Although I primarily use my gear for still portrait photography, client demand for video is increasing, and this lens is clearly designed with video in mind. So, I decided to pull the trigger and add the Canon RF 24-105 f2.8 to my collection. Here are my initial thoughts.
First Impressions and Build Quality
Straight out of the box, the lens isn’t small, but it has a great level of balance and refinement. It’s about the size of a classic 70-200 lens, whether from Canon or Nikon, with internal focusing. The lens also features a sturdy tripod collar similar to the reliable Nikon design.
As a hybrid video lens, it includes an aperture ring, or iris control (for videographers), which is currently only functional for video. However, future camera updates may change this. Additionally, the lens has function buttons on the barrel.
Performance and Usability
The Canon RF 24-105 f2.8 lens supports a new power zoom module, providing a smooth powered zoom function that makes perfect sense given its focal range. In the studio, the lens has performed fantastically so far, offering noticeably sharper images than the f4 version.
For video, I tested the lens in some extreme lighting conditions at home, and the results were nothing less than cinematic. This lens has quickly earned its place in my bag. While it might be overkill for quick on-location jobs, it offers significant advantages in scenarios requiring a bit more power. Additionally, it adds valuable redundancy to my kit.
Versatility and Future Proof
Over the next few months, I plan to dive deeper into video work, and this lens will provide ample room for experimentation.
In summary, the Canon RF 24-105 f2.8 lens offers a perfect balance of performance and versatility, making it a valuable addition to any studio photographer’s kit. Whether you’re focused on stills or venturing into video, this lens is designed to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
Got headshot questions? Check out the headshot FAQs.
Is the M4 iPad Pro Worth the Upgrade? A Photographer’s Perspective
When the M4 iPad Pro was released, I found myself contemplating whether it was worth upgrading from my existing iPad Pro. I know Apple Silicon is nothing to write off, but my previous iPad Pro was still performing well. So, is the upgrade really worth it?
When the M4 iPad Pro was released, I found myself contemplating whether it was worth upgrading from my existing iPad Pro. I know Apple Silicon is nothing to write off, but my previous iPad Pro was still performing well. So, is the upgrade really worth it? Let’s dive in.
iPad Pro for Photographers
As a full-time headshot and portrait photographer, I primarily use my iPad Pro as a light-duty laptop. It handles email, scriptwriting for YouTube, reading, and watching videos effortlessly (the new display is amazing). However, I don’t rely on it for photo editing. My current shooting and editing workflow makes it challenging to use Lightroom on my iPad without misplacing images.
While CaptureOne has released a solid mobile version, I haven’t found the right workflow for regular iOS use. Lightroom’s mobile app is also commendable, but transitioning from Lightroom Classic is a chore.
In the store, the new iPad Pro’s thinner and lighter design, along with the latest keyboard with a trackpad, impressed me. My old iPad keyboard lacked a trackpad, and the difference it makes is significant. The 11-inch size is perfect for air travel, fitting comfortably even with the seat in front reclined.
iPad Pro Performance and Usability
You might wonder if an M4 chip is necessary for an iPad. Honestly, probably not at the moment, but with Apple’s recent advances in AI technology (aka Apple Intelligence), this iPad is built to last several years. At the moment, it’s the only hardware with an M4 chip! I opted for a 512 GB 11-inch model with a keyboard.
In a casual test, I photographed soccer games and imported hundreds of JPGs into Lightroom Mobile. The iPad handled it effortlessly. The only limitation was the slow hotel WiFi.
As a light video editor, I’m excited to test Final Cut Pro on the iPad, which my previous iPad Pro couldn’t support. The iPad is certainly versatile, serving as a second screen for client proofing, and allowing direct shooting into the iPad, adding redundancy and flexibility in the field.
iPad Pro Practical Benefits for Photographers
For photographers like me, iPad Pro is a valuable tool. It streamlines my workflow, especially on location shoots with just a few clients. The portable setup allows for quicker job execution, saving time and money.
iPad Cost
If there are downsides, it’s price. A 512 GB iPad Pro costs around $1200, and that’s before adding a keyboard or AppleCare. Thankfully, my old iPad trade-in helped offset some of the cost. Beyond a certain price point, a MacBook Air might be a more economical choice unless you specifically need iPadOS.
Conclusion
All things considered, M4 iPad Pro offers a notable performance boost. If you’ve been holding off and prefer the iPad form factor despite the cost, this upgrade won’t disappoint.
Learn more about corporate headshot options.
Got more headshot questions? Check out the headshot FAQs.
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