So, you’re polishing up your resume, practicing your “tell me about yourself” speech in the mirror, and maybe even Googling “what’s business casual in Kansas?” Good start. But let’s pause for a second — what about your headshot?

If your current “professional photo” is actually a cropped wedding picture where your cousin’s hand is still on your shoulder… we need to talk. Or if your headshot is from ten years ago…. we also need to talk.

Why Your Headshot Matters (Even in Topeka)

Topeka might not be New York or LA where everyone has three different headshots, but let’s be real. First impressions matter here too. Whether you’re applying at a corporate office downtown, joining a nonprofit, or interviewing on Zoom with someone across the country, people will see your headshot before they meet you. And that little square photo says a lot.

Here’s what a good one can do:

A strong headshot equals instant credibility. You look like you’ve got your act together.
A great photo gives you a confidence boost. You’ll actually want to update LinkedIn instead of avoiding it.
An authentic image makes you memorable. People remember you in a good way when you don’t look like you cropped yourself out of a family reunion.
A real headshot cannot be faked with AI. Don’t let an app turn you into a plastic version of yourself.

No Weirdly Posed, Awkward Headshots Allowed

Here’s the deal. I’m not into stiff, stand-there-and-smile-like-you-smelled-something-weird photos. Your headshot should feel like you. Maybe you’re kind, confident, quirky, or creative. Whatever your vibe, that’s what should come through.

I use what I call headshot archetypes: approachable leader, bold creative, grounded professional. They help us capture your personality naturally. The end result is a headshot that actually looks like you, just the hire-me-now version.

Posing does not have to be weird. No one is asking you to be a supermodel. Just stand how you normally stand, let me guide you a bit, and we’ll get there together.

Take the Headshot Archetype Quiz to see which one fits you best.

The Pre-Session Call: Your Confidence Booster

Before your essential headshot, team session, or branding shoot, we’ll hop on a quick call. It’s simple but makes all the difference. We’ll cover:

What to wear. Spoiler: you probably already have something perfect in your closet.
Which archetype fits your style best.
How to keep the session easy, relaxed, and fun.

Think of it like warming up before a workout, except instead of lunges, you’re loosening up your confidence.

Ready for a Headshot Glow-Up in Topeka?

You’ve got the skills and ambition. Don’t let a blurry selfie from 2018 be the thing that holds you back.

Book your headshot with Still and Wild.

Let’s make a photo that says, "Yes, I’m the one you want to hire."

The best headshots don’t just look good, they look like you. The comfortable, confident, real you. That’s what makes people across the table or on the other side of Zoom think, "Yep, this is our person."

Quick Tips for Job Seekers Beyond the Headshot

While we’re at it, here are a few other things that can help you stand out:

Polish your LinkedIn headline. Don’t just say "Marketing Assistant." Add a little flavor so recruiters get the full picture.
Check your email address. If it’s still jayhawklover92, it’s time for an upgrade.
Google yourself. Employers will. You want to know what they’re going to find.
Be consistent. Once you’ve got a new headshot, use it everywhere: LinkedIn, Zoom, resume, email signature. It makes you more recognizable.

Your headshot opens the door. These little tweaks help you walk in with confidence.