What Is a Proper Headshot?

(And Why It’s More Than Just a Nice Photo)

Imagine walking into a high-stakes meeting. You’ve got two minutes to make an impression, and you don’t say a word. What’s the first thing people notice?

Your presence.

Now, translate that moment online, your headshot is doing the talking before you even show up. And if that photo doesn’t match the level you operate at, you’re already behind.

Today, real estate professionals, business owners, and rising leaders are competing in a high-touch, high-trust market, a proper headshot is not just a checkbox. It’s a calling card.

The Proper Headshot Is Like a Storefront Window

You wouldn’t walk into a high-end boutique with paper signs taped to the windows, would you?

The same goes for your digital storefront, your LinkedIn profile, website, email signature, and social media platforms. Your headshot is the visual and digital handshake. And not just any photo will do.

A cropped photo from your cousin’s wedding? Not good enough.
A selfie with decent lighting? Isn’t going to cut it.
Even a professionally lit photo, but one that doesn’t reflect your role, energy, or market? Still a no.

Any of these would be like taping a clearance sign on a luxury product. It just sends the wrong message.

So, what Is a “Proper Headshot”?

A proper headshot is:

• Professionally taken with intention and clarity
• Well-lit, with soft, even lighting that flatters but doesn’t distort
• In focus, with your face clearly visible (no filters or heavy edits)
• Current, taken within the last 1–2 years
• Aligned to your brand, from wardrobe to background to expression

Whether you’re a luxury realtor in Bergen County or a business consultant here in Oakland, NJ, your headshot should reflect where you’re headed, not just where you’ve been.

 What Are the Rules for Headshots?

There’s no federal guideline, but there are industry standards you’ll want to follow:

Rule	Why It Matters
Dress for your industry (and ideal client)	If you serve luxury, your look should reflect it—think clean, elevated, confident.
Use a neutral or on-brand background	Avoid distractions. You are the focus.
Minimal distractions (hair, jewelry, makeup)	Keep the attention on your expression and presence.
Use consistent lighting and quality	It’s not just about looking good—it’s about building trust.

Bonus rule: Your headshot is not forever. Update it when your appearance changes or your role evolves. Stale images give the impression that your brand is stuck.

Why It Matters More Than You Think

People form impressions in less than one second, and often, your headshot is where that impression starts. Therefore, your photo isn’t just about looking good, it’s working 24/7 to communicate professionalism, trust, and approachability.

This is really about showing up with confidence, owning your expertise, attracting opportunities before you even say a word.

According to LinkedIn, profiles with professional headshots receive 21x more profile views and 36x more messages. Imagine the possibilities and opportunities?

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If your current headshot doesn’t reflect the leader you’ve become, or the one you’re becoming, it’s time for a change. And not just any change, but one that’s purposefully planned, not rushed.

As a brand photographer based in Northern NJ, I guide professionals through headshot sessions that aren’t just beautiful—they’re strategic. Think wardrobe support, real-time coaching, and imagery that actually speaks to the clients you’re trying to reach.

Want to see the difference that strategy makes? Click here to view headshot examples and book your session.

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Because your first impression deserves more than a good guess.
Let’s make it intentional.