7 Tips for Nailing Your Corporate Headshot in London

Posing in front of a camera for a corporate headshot can feel a bit awkward. You’re standing there trying to look confident, natural, approachable, and professional all at once. It’s not exactly everyone’s idea of fun. But with the right prep (and a little help from someone who’s done this before), your headshot can actually come out looking pretty great.

Here’s the deal: whether it’s for LinkedIn, your company website, or your next pitch deck, your headshot says a lot about you. So if you're getting one done soon—especially in a busy city like London—these seven tips will help you look your best without the stress.


1. Don’t Overthink the Outfit, But Still Plan It

You don’t need a stylist—just keep it simple and clean. Stick with solid colours that flatter your skin tone and avoid anything too loud or busy. A blazer over a shirt always works if you want a polished look. And if you're not into blazers? A nice, well-fitted top can do the trick too. Just remember: wear something that makes you feel like you, not like someone playing dress-up.


2. Pick a Photographer Who Gets It

Working with a corporate headshot photographer in London who knows what they’re doing is half the battle. They won’t just snap a photo and call it a day—they’ll help you relax, figure out the best angles, and give little tips while shooting so it doesn’t feel stiff or staged. A local London pro will also know how to get the most flattering lighting, whether you’re shooting in-studio or outdoors.


3. Relax Your Shoulders and Breathe (Really)

You’d be surprised how many people hold their breath or tense up during a shoot. The result? Stiff photos that feel a little “off.” Between shots, roll your shoulders back, take a breath, and maybe even shake out your arms. You’re not a statue—you’re a real person, and your photo should feel that way too.


4. Think About Where You’ll Use It

Before the shoot, ask yourself where this photo’s going to live. Is it just for LinkedIn? Or will it show up in presentations, email signatures, or press kits? Knowing how it’ll be used can help your photographer frame and light it better. If you’re going for a modern, casual brand look, your outfit, expression, and backdrop might be totally different from a more traditional company style.


5. Don’t Skip the Hair and Skincare Check

You don’t need a full glam squad, but do a quick mirror check before the shoot. Tidy up flyaways, check for shiny spots, and maybe bring a comb or blotting papers with you. You’d be surprised how many little things can sneak into the shot—and the fewer touch-ups needed after, the better. Bonus: showing up photo-ready helps you feel more confident too.


6. Know That Lighting Can Make or Break It

A good photo isn’t just about the camera—it’s about the lighting. That’s why working with someone experienced in London event photography can actually help with headshots too. These photographers know how to use lighting to flatter faces in fast-paced settings, and that skill totally carries over to portrait work. The right lighting setup can give your skin a natural glow and keep harsh shadows away.


7. Don’t Force the Smile (But Don’t Skip It Either)

Nobody wants a fake smile. If you feel silly, say it out loud—laugh a little and break the tension. The best shots usually come from those candid in-between moments, not the ones where you’re trying to smile with your teeth clenched. A great photographer will keep the energy light and help you get those real, relaxed expressions that actually look like you.


Final Thoughts

Your headshot doesn’t need to be stressful. With the right outfit, a relaxed mindset, and a photographer who knows how to make you feel comfortable, the whole process can actually be... kinda fun? (Yep, we said it.) And the end result? A photo you’re proud to put on your LinkedIn or website. One that says, “Yeah, I’ve got this.”

If you're in London and looking to level up your professional photos, check out Jonny Donovan — he’s known for capturing natural, real moments that actually look and feel like you.

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