Let’s be real, headshots are weird. We don’t often find ourselves being photographed solo with the purpose of looking so good that someone hires us. It is a lot of pressure. But here you are taking a headshot… you know, that tiny photo of yourself that’s supposed to sum up “all your professionalism, approachability, and life experience” in one awkwardly posed frame? Yeah, that one.

But here’s the truth: the best headshots aren’t the ones where you look like a glossy stock photo model. They’re the ones that actually look like you. And they are important… people want to work with real people with real stories, real skills… and yes… even real imperfections. A glossy perfect headshot is pretty…but people can spot fake a mile a way and the internet is full of fake… so people tend to be on guard for scams or bots.

At Still and Wild, we specialize in authentic professional headshots in Topeka that actually look like you…not some stiff stock photo model.

Meet the Headshot Archetypes

At Still and Wild, we see people fall into a few fun archetypes when it comes to headshots:

The Corporate Commander
Suited up, briefcase in hand, looking like you could negotiate world peace before lunch. Perfect for CEOs, executives, or anyone who wants “serious but approachable” energy.
The Creative Spark
Maybe it’s the messy bun, colorful background, or a hint of mischief in your eyes. Ideal for designers, artists, or anyone whose brand screams “I make cool stuff happen.”
The Small Business Sidekick
Warm, welcoming, ready to help. This archetype says, “Hey, I run a business, but I also know your name and your dog’s name. Let’s do business together.”
The Social Media Star (or aspiring one)
Bright, polished, but still real. Perfect for LinkedIn, Instagram, or anywhere you need to look professional but not plastic.

Authenticity Beats Perfection

Here’s the deal: clients, bosses, and anyone creeping your LinkedIn profile can tell when a photo is stiff, over-Photoshopped, or trying too hard.

That “forced smile”? They’ll see it.
That pose you Googled from some random stock photo? They’ll see it.
That background that looks like a museum exhibit? Yep, they’ll see that too.

Instead, what works is authenticity. You want your headshot to say, “This is me. Confident, approachable, maybe a little quirky, and ready to kick butt professionally.”

The Call: Your Prep Session

Before any Essential Headshot, Team Shoot, or Full Branding session, we hop on The Call. Think of it as your personal coaching session, minus the boring pep talk.

On this call, we’ll cover:

What to wear: Outfits that feel like you and photograph well.
Session approach: How we’ll tackle poses, angles, and settings so it’s smooth and relaxed.
Which archetype are you?: Corporate Commander, Creative Spark, Small Business Sidekick, or Social Media Star.

This call is all about making your session feel relaxed, prepared, and authentic. You’ll hang up knowing exactly what to expect and ready to show up as your true self.

Because the best headshots come from confidence, comfort, and a little personality—not last-minute outfit panic or stiff smiles. This planning call is a) for us to get to know each other and b) to put a plan in motion.

Bottom Line

A great headshot isn’t about perfection. It’s about being real, approachable, and unmistakably you. Your clients, colleagues, and potential employers don’t want a mannequin. They want you, in your professional glory. Let’s drop the exception of perfection and pick up the idea of real. Authenticity is a gift and a major selling point!

So ditch the fake smiles and stiff poses. Let’s make your headshot something that actually looks like you, and maybe even makes you laugh a little in the process.