Which is right for you?

Our online persona plays a pivotal role in promoting who we are & what we do. Having a professional headshot that shows you at your very best is an essential part of your branding package.

First impressions count. Whether it is studio or location photography, an eye-catching profile photo with a welcoming, approachable smile or a strong look of determination will give people a flavour of your personality before they meet you. 

You will see many different styles of professional headshots used by businesses & individuals.

Studio or location headshot photography, which is right for you?

And what is the difference between a studio headshot & a location headshot?

Here, I am going to look at the two main photographic styles for business headshots; studio portraits & location portraits.

Studio Headshot

A studio headshot, is as it sounds, a portrait taken in a photographic studio setting. Usually shot against a plain background; white, grey or black & lit using artificial light.

Pros

• A simple, clean, consistent style & background.
• Studio portraits are easy to replicate. This is beneficial for new team members.
• No matter the time of day, the photographer controls the lighting. This keeps it consistent.
• The background doesn’t detract from the subject of the photo – YOU!

Cons

• Your profile photo looks like hundredssssss of other professional headshots making it harder for you to stand out from your competitors.
• You will need to travel to a photography studio or have space in your office. The portable studio needs four square metres in space.
• For many people, the unfamiliarity of standing in front of the camera is an intimidating prospect. This can make people who have their headshot photos taken in a studio feel more self-conscious as the setting is so far removed from their natural environment. When you’re photographed it’s important you feel at ease. Your photos will reflect how you feel in front of the camera. Being assured & comfortable in front of the lens results in relaxed & confident photos. Nervous, anxious & self-conscious will show in expressions & body language. If you feel daunted about being photographed in a studio, you may prefer to have your photos taken on location. (That makes it sound very glamorous, doesn’t it… I’m now imagining flying off somewhere hot & sunny for a photoshoot!)

Location Photography

A location, or environmental, headshot is simply that; a professional portrait shoot on location. Using the environment as the background & usually shot with natural light. The ‘location’ can be as simple as your office, home, a local cafe or hotel lobby, or even outdoors. A familiar environment.

Pros

• Your photo is unique to you. It doesn’t look like hundreds of other studio photos & it will help you to stand out amongst your competitors.
• Choose your location wisely & a location-based portrait can help bring some character & individuality to your headshot.
• The surrounding environment can help tell your brand story. It puts your portrait into context.
• Many people will feel more relaxed & less self-conscious in the familiar environment of a location shoot. Feeling comfortable in front of the camera will be reflected in your photos.
• A location headshot is easy & convenient for you. My Social Media Headshot package takes a mere 30 minutes! There is no set-up time & if I come to you, you don’t even need to leave your office. #winning 

Cons

• In a studio setting, I have full control over the lighting. Location photography is more dependent on good natural light or the addition of a little bit of camera flash.
• Some offices are so busy or dark that it is difficult to create the right environment for a professional photo. Remember your headshot needs to show you & your brand at your very best. Your best is not a cramped, cupboard-sized office with three years worth of notices pinned to the wall behind you.
• The background & lighting conditions may vary when photographing a large team. Sometimes this can be a good thing & it means everyone’s photo is unique & different. If visual consistency is important to your branding you will want to consider your choice of location very carefully.
• In bad weather, your shoot may be postponed.

Studio or location headshot photography: A combination of the two!

Not just for the indecisive!

Some people opt for a combination of the two. A studio & location headshot will give versatility. The photos can be used in different ways. I can set up my portable studio in one room & shoot environmental portraits in another.

Sometimes it just comes down to personal preference.

Which style do you prefer, studio or location headshot photography?

With over 10 years of experience in shooting portraits for business professionals, I am an expert in creating the right image for you & your brand.

I offer both studio-style & location headshots. I have a fully portable ‘Pop-up Photography Studio’ that enables me to provide a studio service in the convenience of your office. All I need from you is an empty 4m x 4m space to set up in. My studio has successfully popped up in offices & boardrooms all-round Croydon, London & the South East!

I happily work on location, both indoors & outdoors!

Studio or location, having a professional headshot is a valuable marketing asset that showcases your professionalism & is an essential piece of your brand collateral.

Interested in finding out how I can help you make the right impression with your online image? Get in touch & let’s chat.