HOW TO look natural in professional headshots (Even if you hate being photographed)
If you’ve ever stood in front of a camera and thought “what do I do with my hands?” — you’re not alone. Most people don’t love being photographed. The good news? Looking natural in a professional headshot isn’t about being photogenic. It’s about working with a photographer who knows how to guide you so you show up as your best self.
Corporate Team Headshots & Group Photography on white and black
As an Auckland-based corporate headshot and personal branding photographer, I’ve photographed hundreds of business owners, creatives, and professionals who’ve said things like “I hate the way I look in photos” or “my photos never look natural.” Here’s how I help.
𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗳𝗼𝗰𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗴𝗼𝗼𝗱 — 𝗜’𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁
Your expression is what people connect with first, so that’s your only job. I’ll take care of positioning, lighting, and angles to make sure everything looks flattering and natural. During the session, I’ll gently guide you so it never feels rushed or forced.
Tip: Lean slightly towards the camera — not away from it. It feels odd, but it reads as confident and approachable.
𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗿𝗼-𝗺𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗰
Between shots, I’ll guide you through tiny movements — a small shift of your chin or weight. These subtle adjustments help you avoid awkward angles and double chins, keeping everything natural and flattering.
Pro insight: If it feels a bit awkward, you’re probably doing it right. (And yes, I’m a bit of a perfectionist about this — I earned my Master’s in Photography studying portraiture at a pretty serious level, so you’re in safe hands.)
𝗪𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗰𝗹𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗹 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂
The fastest way to look uncomfortable is to wear something that doesn’t feel like you. Confidence comes from comfort. Choose clothes that fit well and reflect how you actually show up professionally — polished, but authentic.
If you’re unsure what photographs best, think solid colours, clean lines, and natural fabrics. Avoid large logos or busy prints that distract from your face.
𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗮 𝗽𝗵𝗼𝘁𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗽𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗵𝗼 𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗽𝘀 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘅 (𝗵𝗶, 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁’𝘀 𝗺𝗲)
A great headshot isn’t just about lighting or angles — it’s about trust. The right photographer will guide you through poses, adjust details you can’t see, and create an atmosphere that feels easy and human.
My sessions are conversational and collaborative. We chat, test angles, and find your best side together. Most people leave saying, “that was way more fun than I expected.”
𝗥𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗵𝘆 𝘆𝗼𝘂’𝗿𝗲 𝗱𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝘁
The best photos happen when you stop performing for the camera and start showing up for your purpose. It’s not about looking perfect; it’s about being real. People connect with authenticity — that’s who they want to do business with.
Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn, launching a new brand, or levelling up your visibility, your photos are an investment in how people perceive you. Focus on confidence and warmth, not perfection, and everything clicks into place.
𝗪𝗿𝗮𝗽-𝘂𝗽 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
If you’re ready to refresh your image with photos that actually look like you, book a branding or headshot session with me in Auckland. We’ll create portraits that feel relaxed, real, and ready to help your business grow.
