6 Tips to Actually Enjoy Your Headshot Session (Yes, Really)
ESTIMATED READ TIME: 8 MINUTES
Let’s be honest: most people would rather get a filling than stand in front of a camera and be told to “just relax.” You start wondering what to do with your hands, whether your smile looks like a mugshot, and whether you’re supposed to know how to pose like you’ve done this before.
Here’s the good news. You don’t need modeling experience or a stylist to get headshots you actually like. You just need to feel like yourself in front of the camera, which is a lot more achievable than it sounds. These six tips will get you there for any Utah headshot session.
1. Trust Your Photographer
The single biggest factor in how your headshots turn out isn’t your outfit or the location. It’s whether you trust the person behind the camera.
Before I ever pick up my camera, I spend time actually talking with my clients. Not small talk to fill silence, real conversation to figure out who you are and what you’re going for. That’s what makes the rest of the session feel less like a photoshoot and more like hanging out with someone who happens to be taking your picture.
When you trust your photographer, something shifts. You stop performing and start just existing in front of the lens, and that’s exactly when the good shots happen.
Branding/Headshot Session
Starting at $225
- Session typically lasts 60 minutes
- 50+ edited images
- $100 non-refundable retainer to book
- Remainder due the day before the session
- Studio fee will be added to total if needed
- Travel fees applicable if 35+ miles from West Jordan
2. You Don’t Have to Know How to Pose
Repeat after me: that’s my job, not yours.
I’ve had clients apologize for not knowing how to pose like it’s something they were supposed to study for. It’s not. During your session, I’ll guide you into angles that actually work for your face and body, pull out expressions that look natural instead of forced, and keep things moving so you never have to hold an awkward pose wondering if you look weird. You just have to show up. I’ll handle the rest.
3. Get Clear on Your “Why” Before You Book
Why are you actually getting these headshots? A LinkedIn refresh reads differently than launching a business, which reads differently than “I just went through a big life change and I want photos that look like who I am now.” Knowing your reason gives us a direction before we ever land on location or wardrobe.
A few ways that plays out:
- Professional and approachable: confident, ready to collaborate, the person a hiring manager or client wants on their team.
- Creative and personality-forward: more relaxed energy, a real smile, maybe a pose with a little attitude.
- Fresh start: bold, a little unapologetic, photos that say you’re stepping into something new.
- Personal milestone: less about “professional” and more about capturing exactly who you are right now.
Tell me your why, and we’ll build the whole session around getting you there.
4. Prep Like You Mean It
A little prep work saves a lot of second-guessing on session day.
- Dress with intention. Solid colors and simple patterns almost always photograph better than busy prints or logos. Wear something that actually feels like you, not just something “professional enough.”
- Take care of yourself beforehand. Drink water, moisturize (Utah air shows no mercy), and get real sleep the night before.
- Bring backup outfits. If you’re not sure what’s going to work, bring options. We’ll pick the winner together on the spot.
- Ask for a consultation. I send prep guides and answer questions ahead of time so you’re not figuring things out the morning of.
5. Shake Off the Nerves Before We Start
If you’re nervous walking in, that’s normal, and it’s fixable. A few things that actually help:
- Do a quick shoulder roll or stretch right before we start shooting.
- Blast your favorite hype song on the drive over.
- Stop trying to look relaxed and just focus on having a good time. The relaxed part follows on its own.
Nerves fade fast once the camera’s out and we’re actually talking instead of posing.
6. Let The Real You Show Up
The best headshots aren’t the most polished ones. They’re the ones that actually look like you.
During your session, I’ll steer you toward genuine moments instead of a stiff, camera-ready mask. Think about a memory that makes you smile without trying, an inside joke, a moment you felt proud, the last time you laughed so hard it hurt. Whether what shows up is a soft smile, a full laugh, or quiet confidence, that’s the shot worth keeping.
Your headshot doesn’t need to be perfect. It needs to feel like you.
Ready to Book Your Utah Headshot Session?
Whether you’re in Salt Lake City, Draper, Park City, or anywhere along the Wasatch Front, I’d love to help you get headshots that actually feel like you, confidence and all. Head over to the contact form and let’s get your session on the calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear for my Utah headshot session?
Choose outfits that reflect your personal style while keeping things clean and professional. Solid colors tend to photograph best, so skip busy patterns or logos where you can. Bring a couple of options and we’ll figure out what works together.
How often should I update my professional headshots?
Generally every 1-2 years, or sooner if your look changes significantly, like a new hairstyle or a big life shift.
What background works best for headshot photography?
It depends on your industry and goals. Neutral tones and simple settings tend to be the most versatile and professional, while an outdoor, urban setting can give a more dynamic, approachable feel.
How long does a typical Salt Lake City headshot session take?
Most sessions run about an hour, which gives us enough time for a few outfit changes, different angles, and a range of expressions.
Can I bring props or accessories to my session?
Definitely. Anything that reflects your profession or personality can add a nice touch, just keep it subtle enough that it supports the photo instead of stealing focus from you.
