Make Your Headshot Actually Look Like You (No Stress Required)
Your Headshot Doesn’t Have to Be Awkward
Let’s face it: getting a professional headshot can feel… weird. Do I smile? Do I look serious? Will I look like myself or some cheesy stock photo?
Here’s the good news: your headshot is more than just a photo, it’s the first impression your audience will get of you. With Still and Wild you get a leading Topeka photographer specializing in branding and headshots, emphasizes that a headshot should feel like you, not someone else’s idea of “professional.” Honestly.. you get someone in your corner. We want you to look great and feel great. We know that you don’t do this often so it feels weird and uncomfortable. Our job is to break through that and make it feel like two friends are hanging out. At the end of the day, your shoot should show the most authentic you. Not some stiff version of you. We know many worry about how to even start to figure out a headshot look that feels like them. We have you covered!
Step 1: Figure Out Your Headshot Archetype
We created the concept of headshot archetypes—basically your personal branding personality in photo form. Choosing one helps guide wardrobe, poses, and energy. After hearing often, “I don’t know what to wear,” or “ I have no idea how my headshot should look.” we decided to create a quick roadmap to get you started. Here’s the breakdown:
The Leader: Polished, confident, approachable. Perfect for executives and entrepreneurs.
The Creator: Expressive, artistic, authentic. For people whose personality shines through creativity.
The Connector: Friendly, relatable, warm. Great for coaches, teachers, and service-based professionals.
The Grounded: Calm, reliable, natural. For those who want to feel steady and approachable.
The Visionary: Bold, modern, and forward-thinking. For trendsetters and innovators.
Pro Tip: Take a few minutes to think about how people describe you, and which vibe you want to give off. Your headshot should match your personality and your brand. Also. headshots are not one thing or one way. There are very traditional heads as well as crazy creative headshots. Headshots also don’t have be a singular image. Maybe you want your Linkedin headshot to look different from your website headshot.
Step 2: Keep It Real- Please!
The best headshots don’t feel forced—they feel like you. Overly posed or stiff photos are a big nope. People can tell when a photo isn’t authentic, and it can subconsciously hurt your credibility.
To keep it real:
Practice your expressions in the mirror or on your phone. THIS WILL FEEL WEIRD. But you will get an idea what you like and what you don’t
Angle your body slightly instead of facing the camera straight on. Stand at a 45 degree angle. Put your hands in your pockets and work on the expressions you want to have.
Wear clothes that feel good and reflect your brand archetype. Try everything on! Make sure it fits you well like you and looks polished. This includes shoes, undergarments, and accessories. Give it a dry run about a week before your session.
Focus on why you’re taking the headshot—LinkedIn? Website? Social media? Align your vibe to your platform. Your “End use” is super important to how we take your picture.
When your photo looks natural, your audience connects immediately. That is why we are doing this afterall… to connect.
Step 3: Prep Like a Pro
Camera nerves are real, but preparation helps. We recommend your practice even if it feels weird.:
Snap a few test photos on your phone in natural light to find your best angles.
Pick your outfit, accessories, and shoes ahead of time.
Think about where your photo will live and what message it should send.
Remind yourself: the goal isn’t perfection—it’s confidence and authenticity.
Step 4: Have Fun During Your Session
We are here to help you shine. Try to relax and enjoy the process:
Use your archetype to guide your energy. The Connector smiles warmly, the Visionary leans into bold confidence.
Small movements—like shifting your weight or moving a hand—add energy and natural feel. You don’t have to use wild motions or poses. Simple and relaxed is best.
Remember, you don’t have to “perform.” Feeling good shows in your expression.
Step 5: Use Your Headshot Like a Branding Superpower
After the shoot, your headshot becomes a tool for your brand.
Update LinkedIn, your website, business cards, or social media.
Keep it fresh: if your look changes (hair, glasses, role), get a new one.
Make sure your photo aligns with your overall brand personality. Consistency builds trust. Trust earns clients!
Quick Archetype Cheat Sheet
| Archetype | Feeling You Want | Wardrobe & Pose Tips |
|---|---|---|
| The Leader | Confident & polished | Tailored jacket, solid colors, slight turn, direct gaze |
| The Creator | Expressive & authentic | Patterns, creative textures, fun accessories |
| The Connector | Warm & relatable | Soft colors, relaxed shoulders, genuine smile |
| The Grounded | Calm & steady | Earth tones, minimal accessories, natural pose |
| The Visionary | Bold & modern | Modern cuts, contrast backgrounds, strong posture |
Final Thoughts
A headshot isn’t just a picture—it’s a way to tell your audience who you are before you even say a word. By choosing your archetype, showing up authentically, and prepping ahead of time, you’ll leave your session with a photo that looks like you, feels like you, and communicates your personal brand clearly.
No stiff poses, no fake smiles. Just you, confident and ready to make a killer first impression.
