How much is the right headshot worth?

When you need a service—a new dentist, hair stylist, veterinarian— how do you find a good one? The Right One? For me, I ask my friends first. An endorsement from a friend of mine is the best. But, what if you don’t have anyone to ask, like when I first moved to Fort Collins from New York? Well, then I just look around websites to find businesses I think I can trust. And I’ve noticed that I go by the photos. I picked a dermatologist just because I got a good feeling when I saw her picture on her website.

During the years that I worked in advertising, every real estate agent needed his or her photo on everything. Business cards, newspaper ads, brochures… everything. They all said that they simply get a better response when people can see their faces. And it’s not about looking a certain way or fitting into any definition of “attractive.” It’s about making a connection.

Ever notice that books have author photos in them? Why do you think that is?

And so how much do you think the right head shot is worth for your business? And since the name of the game is “connection,” then the right headshot is one where you look authentic, personable and approachable. The days of the stuffy studio portrait are over. This not to say that the right head shot can’t be done in a studio, but it certainly can’t be done the way a studio portrait comes to mind. It can’t be done like a 5th grade school photo. And it has to be current. A head shot is not authentic it doesn’t look like you today. Especially with this incredibly exciting explosion of social media. If you’re a fun person, and that’s why people should hire you to do whatever it is you, then your photo should feel fun. You should look like you’re having fun in that photo. But if you are uncomfortable in your photo, how do you think a Twitter or Facebook friend will relate? Or that new girl in town who’s looking for your service?

Head shots with me are a relaxed, fun experience. And these aren’t my words… After our session Dawn Todd (pictured above) said “Thank you, these look great!! thank you for making me feel so comfortable! it was painless and easy! ! ” And her photo reflects that. She’s had compliment after compliment on it. She loves it, she uses it on all her marketing materials, and it helps her business.

I know it’s hard to evaluate a photo of yourself subjectively. And your friends will probably tell you your photo is great because they love you. So, for the rest of January, I’m offering free head shot evaluations. Email your photo to me at photo@christinagressianu.com, and I’ll tell you what it conveys, how it feels. Also tell me what your business is. Knowing if you’re a party planner, or an accountant helps me evaluate better. If after my evaluation, you schedule a head shot session with me, I’ll give you 20% off, just because I think every business owner should have great photos of themselves and their staff.

I want to help you make the connection.