Top 10 Best Headshot Poses

Looking for the top 10 best headshot poses to create a great impression? Here are the top 10 poses that can help you convey your personality, professionalism, and confidence. From the straightforward pose to the serious look, these poses can be adapted to fit different styles and preferences. Discover the poses that work best for you and showcase your best qualities in your next headshot!

1. 45 Degree Angle Standard Headshot

One of the most standard poses for professional headshots has the subject facing the camera and leaning slightly forward with a straight back and having their chest 10 to 45 degrees from the camera.

This specific shot utilizes natural light from North facing windows.  When you’re thinking about using natural light, north-facing windows will always have soft light because the sun never directly shines through them. Whereas,  South-facing windows will often have direct sunlight for a good portion of the day (as long as it’s sunny).

2. Straight On, Standard Headshot

The second most popular pose is the straight-on, standard headshot pose. It is simple and straightforward, with the subject looking directly at the camera. This pose is great for showing off facial features and expressions, and it is perfect for highlighting eye color.  Another thing about this image to note is the white, creamy background.  Keeping your background distraction free is really important.  A white background works really well for a variety of headshots and is one of the most popular background color.

3. Hands On Hips

The hands-on-hips pose is a popular and dynamic headshot pose that can convey a sense of confidence, strength, and authority. This pose can also be flattering for some body types. By placing the hands on the hips, the subject can create a more defined waistline, which can be especially helpful for women’s headshots. You can do one hand or two, just be aware of placement. This specific pose is a seated pose, which to me- gives a really nice approachable look.

4. Hand-On Chin

The “hands-on chin” pose is another popular headshot pose that can create a sense of thoughtfulness, intelligence, and engagement. The pose involves resting one or both hands on the chin or cheek while looking at the camera or off to the side. The pose can create a sense of engagement and thoughtfulness as the subject appears to be deep in thought or contemplation. This can be especially useful for headshots in industries such as academia, research, or counseling.   This image plays with the color blue. Blue is an extremely calming color, often associated with feelings of of depth, trust, loyalty, sincerity, wisdom, and confidence.

5. Hands in Pockets

Hands in pockets can be a great pose for a headshot. The number one question that people want to know is, “What do I do with my hands?”  By putting your hands in your pockets- this is not only comforting but your hands have something to do.  The end result is a more playful, fun headshot.  A playful headshot is great for personal branding, small business owners, creatives, ect.

6. Arms Crossed

The “arms crossed” pose is a popular headshot pose that can create a sense of confidence, professionalism, and approachability. The pose involves crossing the arms over the chest or stomach, with the hands resting on the upper arms or forearms.  This portrait incorporates both a lean and arms crossed.  Don’t be afraid to experiment, and keep trying until you find something that you like and works for you.

7. Laughing

A laughing pose is a great headshot pose because it can create a sense of warmth, approachability, and friendliness. A laughing pose involves the subject laughing or smiling naturally, which can convey a sense of joy and positivity. A laughing pose can create a memorable and unique image that can help the subject stand out from other headshots. This can be especially useful for creative industries such as acting, modeling, or photography. I love a great, genuine smile for a headshot pose.

8. Seated Pose

A seated pose can create a more relaxed and approachable image: Sitting can make the subject appear more relaxed and approachable than standing, which can be useful in industries where warmth and approachability are important, such as hospitality or customer service.  I like to offer a variety of posing options, and the seated pose  is one of the most popular.  By keeping the body towards the back of the chair, and leaning your upper torso forward- you get a really nice warm, and welcoming pose, perfect for your headshot.

9. The Lean

The “lean” pose can be a great headshot option.  I like this one because it can help to create a relaxed and natural posture. It can be comforting, as well as, sliming the body.  Hand placement should also be considered when you’re doing ‘the lean.’  Finding ways to use your hand and arm placement to slim the body is an important factor when doing headshots.

10. Headshot With Props

It’s a good idea to bring props with you to your headshot session.  Props are an excellent way to make your headshot session more fun and memorable. They also help bring out the personality of your brand or company. I love props!

Top 10 Headshot Poses Summary

Posing in headshots is important because it can help you make a great impression, convey your personality and professionalism, boost your confidence, and showcase your creativity. The way you pose can communicate confidence, approachability, and friendliness, or alternatively, stiffness, awkwardness, or nervousness. A skilled photographer can work with you to find the right pose that showcases your best qualities.

Another reason why posing in headshots is important is that it can help you feel more comfortable and confident during the photo shoot. If you feel self-conscious or unsure about how to pose, it can show in the final product. However, if you work with a photographer who can guide you through the process and help you find your best angles, you are more likely to end up with a headshot that you are proud to share.

Finally, posing in headshots can be a fun and creative experience. Whether you want to experiment with different poses or incorporate props and accessories, a headshot photoshoot can be an opportunity to express yourself and showcase your unique style.

Are you ready to book your next headshot session?  Contact Me Today!