WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A HEADSHOT AND BUSINESS PORTRAIT?
In the past, having one photo for business cards, newsletters, brochures, website profiles and just about anything else that required your likeness was the norm. One quick photo session, and you’d be good to go. However, as social media exploded and we all became so used to snapping photos in every conceivable situation, personal and professional worlds collided and the concept of the “professional photo” took a direct hit.
In the aftermath of all this, the business portrait was born. Previously, a headshot was acceptable across the board, but with a business portrait from a Certified Professional Photographer, it takes the experience to an entirely new level.
Headshot 101
As the name suggests, a headshot is a professional photo of just your head and shoulders. Many of us associate headshots with actors and actresses. And while an acting portfolio is certainly a place the traditional headshot will be found, they were also the status quo for business cards, profile pictures and many other platforms for years.
Business Portrait Basics
Unlike the standard headshot, a business portrait, also known as a corporate portrait or executive portrait, often includes your whole body and possibly even props. You may be dressed in formal business attire or more casual business clothing, and the props can range from a bookshelf behind you, a desk in front of you, or whatever you feel fits your personality.
The Primary Difference that Sets Them Apart
Aside from the fact that one is more involved and shows more of your body, the main difference between getting a headshot in Phoenix or a business portrait is conceptual. While a good headshot requires the expertise of a professional Phoenix photographer, your business portrait goes far more in-depth.
It takes on the feel of a professional photo shoot, with the clothing, hair, makeup, jewelry, lighting, composition, background and facial expressions all carefully scripted ahead of time. While a Scottsdale headshot shows the world who you are, a business portrait helps create a perception of you, and your value as a business partner, employee, colleague or advisor.
Is There Room for Both?
A methodically crafted business portrait will add personality and depth to web pages, newsletters and other platforms, but that doesn’t mean you should abandon the headshots altogether. For things like your business cards or LinkedIn profile, a headshot might be just what you need. The key is to determine your needs for each situation, then combine them with your personality and what you want to project to the world and go from there.
The Value of a Good Phoenix Headshot Photographer
It can get confusing trying to figure out which type of pictures to put where, not to mention the details. Luckily, I’m a Certified Professional Photographer with a long and proven track record when it comes to setting the scene for the perfect headshot or business portrait.
As the Photographer of the Waste Management Phoenix Open, I know all about capturing the moment and making people look their best in a variety of situations. If you’d like to learn more about headshots and business portraits, or want to book a session, Contact Me today and we can get the process started.
