What to wear
People form a first impression in under 100 milliseconds — and clothing is a core part of that snap judgement. Wear something you've worn before, in a solid colour that makes you feel like your best professional self. Behavioural science calls this 'enclothed cognition' — how you dress changes how you carry yourself. That shows up in the photo.
Do this
Solid colours = your best friend
Jackets, knits, simple tops photograph beautifully
Wear something that feels like you on a good day
Bring options - a few jackets and tops
Maybe not this
Loud patterns, big logos, shiny fabrics. Avoid sleevelss tops
How to look good in your headshots
Ever noticed how movie stars and models always just look great?
Strong headshots come from subtle facial expression - especially around the eyes.
You can fake a smile. You cannot fake a Duchenne smile — the one that reaches your eyes. Psychologist Paul Ekman spent decades proving it. The best expression doesn't come from trying to look good. It comes from thinking something real. Before we shoot, think of a client you helped who truly moved you. That's the face we want.
Tip: Write down three words you want clients to feel when they see your photo. Bring them with you.
There’s a simple technique used by professional headshot photographers to create a confident, engaged look without appearing forced.
New York photographer Peter Hurley famously calls this the “squinch.”
Peter Hurley did this [hilarious] video where he demonstrates the “squnch”.
The process
BEFORE THE SHOOT
Get a haircut or style a couple of days before
Plan or purchase a couple of clothing options and try these on
Practice your “squinch” :)
ON THE DAY
Arrive and we’ll have a quick chat about styling options
If in the studio you can hang your clothing options and do a light makeup and hair touch up in the dressing room
Relax and enjoy the experience
AFTER THE SHOOT
Private, password-protected online gallery is delivered to you vie email within 48hours.
You choos choose their favourite images, colour and black-and-white
Instant digital download
Your initial $198 investment includes 3 digital images but you have the option to purchase more.
Why teams choose us
Let’s face it, headshot photography can be hit and miss. Quality.. meh… and invoicing and comms all over the place.
Shelly has worked as a commercial photographer for over 10 years and gets the logistics side of making a team headshot day run like clockwork. We also make it easy and teams come away saying the experience was actually fun. The end product is a premium quality portrait you’d find in a portrait studio.
“Thank you, we loved working with you Shelly and we absolutely love our new photos!” Caldwell Martin Cox Lawyers
Ready to book your headshots
Headshot photography · Southern Highlands · Sydney