Look awesome… (not shit)

Even in Wellington, there has never been a more important time to be the owner of an amazing personal brand. With the rise of the internet and social media, nearly all initial interactions have shifted from the real world to online.

First impressions DO count. As humans we are a visual lot. Making split decisions and jumping to conclusions about everything. Especially the people we meet.

Jane talks the part, but her profile photo looks a bit rubbish. Is she serious, professional or trustworthy? Should I do business with her?

Imagine, your LinkedIn profile pic is a photo of you, drunk at your wedding. It may be taken by a professional photographer, but its not representing you as a professional. Unless your aim is to make the world think that you’re a drunken bum… all before they meet you. First impressions can be tough and unforgiving like that.

Give yourself the best possible chance. Choose a photograph that best represents you to your following.

WHY DO I NEED A HEADSHOT?

Brand isn’t really something that you have total control over. But a well thought out headshot is a great starting point. Use it wisely and consistently, ensuring that its a true reflection of the brand that is you. Does it convey the right message? Is it attracting the people you want to attract? Is it repelling the people you’re looking to repel? These are just a few things you should think about when planning your next professional or corporate headshot session.

Like it says on the tin, a headshot is a photograph of your…
wait for it...
head

Typically your head and shoulders. You are the focus, so having a non distractive background works best. Think less is more. My preference is to have your eyes engaging with the camera. It feels so much more intimate and engaging.

The headshot is way more up close and personal compared to a regular portrait. Your face fills the photo and this is very important. This helps you being easily identified when used for social media profiles. Think of the size of a LinkedIn profile pic. They tend to be fairly small. So the bigger your face in the photo, the easier you will be recognised via your LinkedIn profile picture.

A headshot is totally about you. You want the person looking at your photo, like its the real life you. 

Actors and actresses have employed the headshot for an age. Using it as a little slice of their soul to remind casting directors of their looks and charm. Entrepreneurs and business people, their headshot provides the face to go with their product or service. Authors, influencers, speakers, giving you an image of them to hold in the minds eye while reading their work.

The headshot process may seem intimidating.

There’s this person, uncomfortably close. Maybe there’s no mistake that the word ‘shot’ is used. That camera is loaded and pointing directly at your head… BANG.

For a lot of people, such a close up photograph is confronting to look at. It’s like being under a microscope. You see so many flaws. It seems unnecessary.

Just think though, all the people you engage with throughout the day, this is how they experience you. They are talking to you, listening to you, enjoying your great conversations, locked on to your face. They don’t see the flaws you see. They don’t care. Give yourself a break, you’re awesome the way you are.

Looking chilled and natural on demand isn’t easy.

In fact, there’s a whole profession for that. It’s called modelling. As a busy professional, you can’t be expected to turn on ‘the look’ on cue. Thats not fair. Do you actually spend any time over the day making sure your face looks just perfect? The eyes opened just so, the right amount of smile, optimal pressure across your brow? It’s not a skill thats practiced. I bet it never crosses your mind. Showing emotion and feelings through your features is the domain of the subconscious. Making sure that the spinach from lunch is out of your teeth… thats down to you.

Emotion drives our facial expressions. Happy, sad, angry, excited. It all changes your face, the way you feel. Feeling stressed and nervous for your headshot session? That will show. Don’t worry though. All this will be handled by the photographer. It’s what separates great from good. Technical ability is okay, but being a people person is headshot photographers number one job.

Coaching you to look your best. Helping you to relax. Being able to capture those moments when the camera has been forgotten and the subconscious is back in control. Its all about having fun.

Where do I go for my headshots?

With timson.co’s professional headshot service, you don't have to take time out of your day to travel to a studio. I will come to you.

How long will it take?

Depending on how many outfit changes you have planned, a typical session will last 30 to 60 minutes. I do get a bit over enthusiastic sometimes. You may have to ask me to stop.

How does it work?

• You've looked over this website and have determined that you jive with my style of headshot and photography.

• Next is to book your session. Use the form below or the book link in the top menu – No booking fee require.

• I'll contact you to organise a planning meeting. Here we discuss your personal brand style, the type of photos you need and ideal Wellington locations. Also this is a great time for you to ask me any questions.
  Planning meetings can be held over the phone or Skype... but I prefer in person over a coffee (or tea).

• Photo shoot day!! We’ll collaborate together to make some great photos.
  (For headshot sessions you get to review the photos during and after the session, choosing your favourites.)

• After your session I'll process your photos. My aim is for you to see your photos within 24 hours. You will receive an online gallery link to view and order your photos.

• You use your online gallery to purchase your favourite photographs.

• I'll send through your chosen headshots or branding photographs within the next 24 hours.

• You're super happy and spread the word about timson.co's awesome professional headshot and brand photography services ;)

What do I get?

Headshots of course!! With timson.co’s packages you receive digital photographs ready for print and social media.

When do I get my photos?

Depending on my workload and how fast you order, you will receive headshots with 24 – 48 hours. 

When can I book and how much will it cost me?

lets do it...

Complete the form below with your contact details and I'll be in touch to discuss your next professional headshot session.

Don't forget to let me know a little about you and where in Wellington would be a great fit for you and your new photos.