Is it true, "a picture's worth a thousand words"? I've seen headshots taken in a bathtub and while climbing boulders. What's the impact and message? Who's the audience?
I was using ChatGPT to research headshots and one of the things I asked was: What kind of headshots do people most look for?
The response was:
Typically, people look for professional headshots that are clear, well-lit, and have a neutral expression. The headshot should accurately represent the person's appearance and capture their personality. The background should be simple and not distract from the subject's face. Business professionals often look for headshots that are suitable for use on their LinkedIn profile or corporate websites. Actors and models may look for more creative headshots that showcase their versatility and range.
I next asked: Why do headshots look so ordinary?
The response was:
Headshots are often ordinary in appearance because the primary purpose of a headshot is to provide a clear and accurate representation of a person's appearance. Simple and neutral backgrounds, lighting, and expressions help to achieve this goal and ensure that the focus remains on the person's face. The aim is to create a professional and polished image that can be used for various purposes, such as business profiles, actor or model portfolios, or personal branding. The straightforward look of headshots helps to convey a sense of reliability, competence, and approachability, making them suitable for a wide range of purposes.
So my last questions was: How can I look good in a headshot photo?
ChatGPT said:
To look good in a headshot photo, consider the following tips:
Preparation: Get a good night's sleep, eat well, and wear appropriate attire. Choose clothes that fit well, are in neutral colors, and complement your skin tone.
Posture: Stand up straight and relax your shoulders. Keep your chin up and avoid tilting your head in any direction.
Expression: Choose a neutral expression that looks natural and confident. Avoid over-smiling or frowning.
Lighting: Make sure the lighting is even and doesn't cast shadows on your face. Natural light is usually the best option.
Background: Choose a simple background that doesn't distract from your face. A solid color wall is a common choice.
Hair and makeup: Keep your hair and makeup simple and natural-looking. Avoid overdoing it, as this can look unnatural in a photo.
Photographer: Work with a professional photographer who has experience in taking headshots. They will be able to guide you and ensure that the final result is a high-quality image.
Remember, the goal is to create a headshot that accurately represents your appearance and captures your persona
lity. A good headshot can help you make a great first impression, so take the time to prepare and choose the right photographer.
AI (Artificial Intelligence) is not so artificial. It nailed it with regard to anything I could possibly write but there's always nuance and that's where communication (human to human) is invaluable.
As # 7 above states, talk with me about pro photos. I'm more an intuitive photographer than a traditional one but with the solid goal in mind to capture your essence, no matter how challenging it is for you!
I look forward to working with you!
Richard