Which Headshot Archetype Are You?

Sep 8

Most people dread headshots.
“What do I wear? How should I pose? What if I look awkward?”

You’re not alone—so many clients walk into my studio with the same questions swirling in their minds. That’s why I created the Headshot Archetype Guide—to give you clarity, confidence, and direction before you even step in front of the camera.

First, what’s an archetype?

If you’ve never heard the word before, don’t worry. Maybe my Facebook is just really dialed in, but I see these term all the time when it comes to “what to wear”… dress for your archetype. An archetype is simply a way of describing your natural vibe—the energy you give off and the way people see you. Once you know yours, it becomes much easier to decide how you want to look and feel in your headshots.

Instead of stressing about what backdrop to choose, what expression works best, or what colors to wear—you’ll have a clear starting point that actually feels like you.

The 5 Headshot Archetypes

The Leader – Polished and commanding, with a headshot that projects confidence and authority.
The Creator – Innovative and expressive, with a headshot full of originality and personality.
The Connector – Warm and approachable, with a headshot that feels open and inviting.
The Grounded – Calm and steady, with a headshot that communicates trust and reliability.
The Visionary – Bold and dynamic, with a headshot that stands out and gets noticed.

Which one feels like you? Maybe there are a few that you identify with. I tend to be fall in line with the Creator and The Grounded type.

Why this matters for your headshot

A headshot is more than a picture—it’s an introduction. The first thing people see when they Google you, connect on LinkedIn, or land on your website. And when your headshot reflects your archetype, it doesn’t just look good—it tells your story with confidence and clarity.

No more second-guessing. No more “I don’t know what I want.” With the guide, you’ll walk into your session already knowing your style, your vibe, and your vision.

Sometime we need the next right step. I remember years (and I mean years) ago looking at wallpaper… so long ago that it has come back in style! lol. But I was looking through books and books and honestly every new book just made me more confused. I didn’t know if I wanted a fruit, a pattern, or fall harvest boarder in my kitchen. It wasn’t that I didn’t want wallpaper… I just didn’t know where to start to even get the look I wanted. Just as I know that if you are here… you want an updated headshot… you just don’t know where to start. This guide is perfect for you!

With this information in mind we can craft a session- from what to wear, the colors of your backdrop, and poses to fit you best!

Grab Your Guide

If you’ve ever worried about what direction to take with your headshots—this guide is for you. It’s designed to help you:
Define your style with confidence
Choose looks, backdrops, and poses that fit you
Show up ready to shine in front of the camera

Download the Headshot Archetype Guide and start your journey toward a headshot that finally feels like you.

Because when you know your vibe, your confidence shows—and that’s when the magic happens.

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