People often confuse headshots with portraits and while they’re very similar, there are some major differences.
All About Headshots in Boston, MA
A headshot is self-explanatory as it’s a close-up photo of the head and shoulders. This style of shooting is typically used for branding and marketing. You’ll often find these photos on the About Us section of a company website or on an actor’s profile. The main goal is to be able to easily identify the subject. Headshots are also used on social media channels, particularly Linkedin.
One of the key elements of a headshot is that subject must be looking at the camera.
Below are some tips on how to pose for a headshot:
- Keep your appearance simple
- Try to communicate with your eyes
- Have good posture and breathe beforehand
- Push your chin out
Understanding Portraits in Boston, MA
There’s a bit more wiggle room when it comes to portraits as you can select from closeups, full body shots and more. Additionally, portraits can include more than one person. Portraits usually aren’t very formal and are used to tell a story. The photographer as well as the model involved can make things more dramatic and involve artistic expression.
When it comes to portraits, the model can look anywhere and all parts of the body can be included. Since these aren’t all about professionalism, people can wear any style of makeup they choose, add props and even have their hair a bit messy.
Below are some tips on how to pose for a portrait photo:
- Shift weight to create an S-curve
- Lean a little forward from the waist to avoid looking heavier
- Bring your chin down slightly; try to avoid tilting your head backwards
- Pull the chin forward
- Lift your arm an inch a two away from the body to avoid it pressing against the torso and making it look bigger than it is
Contact Nikki Cole at 617.846.3314 for headshot and portrait photography in Boston, MA.
