How Topeka Job Seekers Can Stand Out with the Right Headshot

Oct 4

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.

Topekaheadshot

Kim Bear

About Kim | Photographer at Still and Wild

If you live in or around Topeka, you’ve probably noticed how hard it is to find headshots that actually feel real. Most people end up with photos that look stiff, overly edited, or just not like them. That’s exactly why I started Still and Wild: to create portraits that feel like you on your best day.

I’m Kim Bear, a Topeka-based photographer who believes your headshot should work as hard as you do. I specialize in professional and creative headshots that help entrepreneurs, small business owners, and professionals across Topeka, Holton, and Northeast Kansas show up with confidence. My approach is relaxed, guided, and designed to help you look natural and self-assured in every photo.

When you book a session with me, it isn’t about forcing perfection. It’s about finding that spark, the mix of calm, confidence, and personality that makes people stop scrolling and say, “That’s who I want to work with.”

Why people choose Still and Wild

Most of my clients tell me the same thing: “I hate having my picture taken.” But by the end of their session, they’re relaxed, laughing, and usually saying, “That was actually fun.” I guide you every step of the way, from what to wear to how to pose, so your photos feel effortless, natural, and flattering.

I photograph headshots, personal branding portraits, and lifestyle images throughout Topeka, Holton, and nearby Kansas communities, blending modern studio lighting with lifestyle-inspired direction. The result is a polished but personal look that helps you stand out both online and in person.

What makes Still and Wild different

The experience at Still and Wild is personal from the very beginning. You’ll never be rushed through your session or posed like everyone else. Every session is customized to highlight who you are and what makes your story unique. My goal is to help you walk away with photos that feel like you, confident, approachable, and authentic.

After years behind the camera, I’ve learned how to use light, movement, and genuine connection to bring out your most natural expressions. Many people think they’re not photogenic, but what they really need is someone who understands how to guide them comfortably through the process. I know how to capture that perfect balance between professional and real so your headshots feel natural while still looking elevated.

And then there are the results. My clients use their photos to grow their businesses, attract better opportunities, and build stronger brands. I’ve worked with professionals across Topeka and the surrounding area who tell me their new photos changed how people respond to them online and how they feel about themselves. Whether you need a LinkedIn headshot, brand photography for your business, or a creative concept for your next project, I’ll help you create images that make people stop and pay attention.

Ready to look like the professional you already are?

Let’s create something that feels completely you.

Book your headshot session today and walk away with portraits that help you stand out online and in real life.

https://www.stillandwild.com