The difference between headshots and personal portraits
which one do you need?
What is a headshot and how does it differ from a portrait? Is it the type of photo, the style of photography, or maybe it’s just a term photographers use to confuse you!
Here’s why you need to know – plus – how headshots with me can straddle both: giving you the best of both worlds.
Understanding the difference between headshots and portraits
When it comes to professional headshots, understanding the nuances between headshots and portraits is crucial for choosing which kind of photo will suit you.
Professional headshots are typically more formal, focusing on the face and upper body, and are often used for business purposes. Personal portraits, on the other hand, tend to be more relaxed and expressive, capturing context and a broader range of personality and style.
But – it’s not always so clear cut. So what if you could have the best of both worlds?
Types of different headshots and portraits
What’s the difference between a headshot and a personal portrait? There’s not really a right answer here – it’s more of a question of style. The typical response to your question goes like this.
Professional headshots
Professional headshots are typically a ‘head and shoulders photo’ that is ideal for formal business contexts or LinkedIn profiles, where a polished, professional image is paramount.
Personal / Lifestyle headshots
Some might call personal portraits more of a lifestyle, personal style of headshot – that might include environment for context and maybe head and shoulders, or from the waist up (what’s called in photography terms, a 1/2 shot).
Personal portraits
But here’s where things get a little more complicated. Let’s add in a third type of professional photo – their reason for being is absolutely not as a professional headshot. Be it a birthday present for yourself or a celebration after a change, they’re more of an opportunity for self expression and growth. Those to me are really personal portraits. Which leaves us where, exactly?
Well, a headshot is just a headshot – it’s a vehicle for you to put yourself out there in a way that suits you and your profession best. Style is the thing that lifts a corporate headshot to something entirely different if you’re just not after that look. Therapists, actors, entrepreneurs, coaches, creative industries – they all need headshots, but in essence they need to be more personal in style. They’re not necessarily however, looking for a personal portrait, and that’s where the terminology trips you up.
How headshots differ in style and why it’s really important
What you are really looking for in a photo for professional use, is the style of headshot. The style you’re looking for is key to who you are, your industry, and what you want to reflect. I work with lots of creative or conscious professionals – photographers, literary types, actors, entrepreneurs, change-makers, where connection and persona is crucial: so for my clients, your headshots need to straddle both worlds. Where a headshot has a relaxed, lifestyle look to it, to me that’s just a modern headshot. It’s the perfect professional photo for creatives, entrepreneurs, or anyone wanting to showcase more of their personality.
Which leaves personal portraits as… essentially professional, creative head and shoulders photos tailored to your own personal preference. (You can use them professionally, but it’s not their main purpose – more on that later). Here on my website then, you’ll find relaxed, creative head and shoulders and 3/4 type photos under headshots. And you’ll find creative portraits for yourself, under women’s personal portraits.
How is a headshot experience different from a personal portrait experience?
WHAT IS A professional headshot SESSION LIKE?
A professional headshot session typically lasts up to an hour and focuses on capturing your best professional image. We’ll work together to create a series of confident shots that highlight your personality while maintaining a professional appearance. We’ll delve into your personality, interests, and aspirations to create headshots that tell your own story, using expression, background or sometimes small props. These sessions are perfect for bio photos, social media content, LinkedIn profiles, company websites, and professional marketing materials. The session includes guidance on posing, expression, props/ environment and wardrobe choices to ensure you look your absolute best.
WHAT IS A personal portrait session LIKE?
A personal portrait session is a more intimate and creative experience, typically lasting around 1 – 2 hours. This extended time allows us to explore various looks, outfits, and moods. These sessions are designed to empower you, boost your confidence, and provide you with a collection of images that truly represent who you are. Perfect for both personal celebration, expression and exploration. They are also so relaxing and invigorating that a professional headshot can easily be taken from one of these sessions. So if you’re looking to combine something far more personal and tailored that ticks the headshot box, then a personal portrait session would easily be the gift for you!
BOOK YOUR HEADSHOT SESSION TODAY!
Let’s shoot together
