The short answer: To prepare for a professional headshot, choose two or three outfits in solid colors that fit you well, think about where you will use the images, rest well the night before, and let your photographer guide you through every pose. At my studio in downtown Chipley, every headshot session is fully guided, professional hair and makeup is offered, and you see your images the same day, right after your session.
Every January I hear the same thing from clients: “I have needed a new headshot for years.” Maybe your profile picture is cropped from a wedding photo, or your business has grown and the old image no longer feels like you. A new year is a natural moment to change that, and I would love to help.
Why the New Year Is the Perfect Time for a Fresh Headshot
January is when so many of us update things. We refresh our LinkedIn profiles, rebuild our websites, launch new offers, apply for new roles, and say yes to speaking and networking opportunities. Your headshot shows up in every one of those places, often before you ever shake someone’s hand. A current, professional portrait tells people you take your work seriously and that you are the person they will actually meet.
I also find that a headshot session in the new year feels like a fresh start. It is a chance to show up for yourself and to see yourself the way the people you serve already see you.
Studio or On Location: Choosing What Fits You
I photograph headshots and personal branding sessions in my studio in downtown Chipley and on location. The studio gives you clean, polished light and a calm, private space, which is perfect for a classic professional headshot. Location sessions work beautifully for personal branding, when you want images that show where you work and what you do. Many clients like a mix of both, and we will talk through what fits your goals before your session.
What to Wear for Your Headshot
Clothing is the question I get most, so here is what I tell every client.
Choose solid colors over busy patterns, since small prints and logos pull attention away from your face.
Bring two or three outfits so you have options, such as one more formal look for LinkedIn and one softer look for your website or social media.
Pick pieces that fit you well right now and that you feel confident in. Comfort shows on your face.
Think about where the photos will live. If your brand has colors, bring something that complements them.
Keep accessories simple so they never compete with you.
You do not have to figure this out alone. My studio wardrobe is included with every session if you would like to use it, and we will go over your choices together before we begin.
Hair and Makeup: Arrive Ready or Let Us Help
Professional hair and makeup is offered to every client, and it is one of the easiest ways to feel camera ready without the stress. Makeup for photos is a little different than everyday makeup, and having it done professionally means you can relax and focus on enjoying your session.
Some clients prefer to arrive hair and makeup ready, and that is completely fine too. If you are doing your own, get your haircut a week or so ahead rather than the day before, keep your skin care routine the same so there are no surprises, and bring a comb and your favorite lip color for touch ups.
What Happens During Your Session
My sessions are fully guided from start to finish. You do not need to know how to pose or what to do with your hands. I direct every angle, every expression, and every small adjustment, so you can simply show up and be yourself. Most people tell me they were nervous walking in and surprised by how much fun they had.
Depending on the package you choose, a headshot or personal branding session takes about one to three hours. Right after your session, you see your images the same day during your viewing, so there is no waiting and wondering. Your final images are ready about two weeks after your viewing.
Headshots for Your Whole Team
If you lead a business, office, or practice, I also photograph corporate headshots for whole teams and all employee sessions. I can set up on location at your business office, which keeps things easy for your staff and gives your company a consistent, professional look across your website, email signatures, and LinkedIn pages. The new year is a great time to make sure everyone on your team, including new hires, has a headshot that matches.
Serving Panama City, the Emerald Coast, and Beyond
My studio is in downtown Chipley, and I welcome clients from Panama City, Panama City Beach, 30A, Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Crestview, DeFuniak Springs, Marianna, Tallahassee, Dothan, and beyond. Some of my clients even travel from as far as Atlanta and Texas. If you are looking for a Panama City portrait photographer who will guide you through the whole experience, the drive is part of the fun, and I promise to make it worth it.
As an accredited Master Photographer with The Portrait Masters, with international Top 10 placements and a Silver at the ICON Awards, I bring the same care to every headshot, whether it is your first one or your fifth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a headshot session take?
A headshot or personal branding session takes about one to three hours, depending on the package you choose.
When will I see my headshots?
You see your images the same day, during your viewing right after your session. Your final images are ready about two weeks after the viewing.
Do you photograph headshots on location?
Yes. I photograph headshots in my studio in downtown Chipley and on location, including at your business office.
Do I need to do my own hair and makeup?
No. Professional hair and makeup is offered to every client. Some clients choose to arrive hair and makeup ready, and that works too.
Can you photograph headshots for my whole team?
Yes. I photograph corporate headshots for whole teams and all employees, and I can set up on location at your office.
Do I need to know how to pose?
Not at all. Every session is fully guided, and I direct each pose and expression for you.
Ready for a Headshot You Love?
If a fresh headshot is on your list for the new year, I would love to hear what you need. Visit my Headshots and Personal Branding page to see more of my work and send me an inquiry, and we will plan a session that fits you. You can also explore everything I offer on my homepage.