Good vs. Bad Headshots: What’s the Difference?

When you think of a headshot, you might picture a simple portrait, but a great headshot is much more than that. It tells a story, conveys emotion, and makes a lasting impression. Whether you’re an actor, a job seeker, or a business professional, the right headshot can open doors, while a bad one can shut them before you even get a chance.

What Makes a Good Headshot?

A great headshot isn’t just about looking nice—it’s about capturing who you truly are. A well-crafted headshot should:

✅ Look Authentic – Your personality should shine through. No forced smiles, no awkward posing.
✅ Create a Connection – A great headshot feels inviting, as if you’ve met the person in real life.
✅ Serve a Purpose – Whether for casting, LinkedIn, or company branding, it should align with your goals.
✅ Have Professional Quality – Good lighting, proper composition, and high resolution are essential.

Examples of Good Headshots:

• Actors: Expressiveness that helps land roles.
• Job Seekers: A LinkedIn photo that increases recruiter interest.
• Businesses: A polished team image that builds trust with customers.

A professional headshot isn’t just a luxury—it’s an investment in your success.

What Makes a Bad Headshot?

A bad headshot doesn’t just fail to help—it can actually hurt your reputation.

🚫 The “Vacant Smiley” – A forced, inauthentic grin that doesn’t reach the eyes.
🚫 The Trendy Cliché – A staged, overdone pose that lacks originality.
🚫 Poor Quality – Bad lighting, awkward angles, or blurry images make you look unprofessional.
🚫 Outdated or Unpolished – If your headshot is years old or was taken in poor lighting, it’s time for an update.

A bad headshot can cost you job opportunities, auditions, or business deals before you even step into the room.

How Art of Headshots Helps You Get a Great Headshot

At Art of Headshots, we understand that a headshot isn’t just a photo—it’s a reflection of you. That’s why we go beyond just taking pictures; we capture your essence.

✔ Personalized Experience – We take the time to understand your personality and goals.
✔ Professional Guidance – We direct you to ensure natural, authentic expressions.
✔ High-End Photography – Using expert lighting, angles, and retouching, we create stunning, high-quality images.
✔ Confidence-Boosting Sessions – Many clients say their sessions feel like therapy—helping them feel comfortable and confident.

The difference between good vs. bad headshots comes down to expertise, and at Art of Headshots, we specialize in bringing out the best version of you.

Final Thoughts

A good headshot enhances your career, while a bad one holds you back. The key is authenticity—your headshot should tell a story and make an impact.

Looking for a headshot that helps you stand out? Let Art of Headshots bring your personality to life with professional photography that opens doors.

📸 Book your session today!