We can’t deny that in today’s digital age, a strong online presence is crucial for any professional of any age. This is especially true for experienced, mid-career individuals who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. That said, I recently did an online search which revealed a surprising statistic: 42% of mid-career and older business professionals lack a professional headshot on their online profiles. Without doubt there must be a lot of missed opportunities!
Think about it, if an individual doesn’t have a current professional business portrait on their LinkedIn profile, online employment profiles or attached to job applications and CVs/résumés etc., they, unfortunately, will likely will be overlooked.
I was apprehensive and self-conscious about having my photo taken, but Chris put me at ease and made the experience very smooth. I am very pleased with the final result. I would highly recommend Chris for any professional photography needs.
– DM, Jacksonville
The big question for the mid-career professional is “why do I need a current headshot?” In this article I’ll answer this and a lot of other questions about professional headshots for older professionals. To that end and let’s be completely transparent here, we’ve all looked at a professional service or other business online, maybe Google and when we get to to see the business in person we we realize the individual in front of us is not the younger person we saw on the website or LinkedIn. Obviously this is definitely a huge negative and should be addressed immediately!
Either in a business situation like a company website or an online application for employment it’s critical that we have an up-to-date and authentic (not AI) professional headshot. The authenticity aspect is so important for many reasons as you’ll find out below, read on…..
As I’m sure you’ll agree in our image driven culture first impressions matter, and in the digital world your headshot is often the first thing prospective employers, clients, or customers see. A high-quality, professional headshot can project experience, confidence, credibility, and approachability – all essential qualities for success for mid-career executives in the business world.
Chris is a true pro! It was great to work with such a perfectionist who really enjoys what he does. Thank you CC!!
– CC- Ponte Vedra
Why Mature Professionals Deserve First-Rate Headshots
Let’s dispel the myth that professional headshots are just for young professionals. Here’s why seasoned professionals benefit even more:
Experience is an asset, not a liability. Your headshot should convey the wisdom and authority that comes with years of experience. As a professional photographer specializing in headshots I can capture the authentic you through subtle posing and lighting techniques.
Stand out from the crowd. In an ocean of online profiles vying for attention, a professionally, lit, posed and retouched headshot can help you make a great first first and a lasting impression. It shows you take your work or career seriously and regularly invest in your professional image.
Boost confidence. It’s a bit like using good equipment in athletic pursuits – they boost your confidence! Feeling good about how you look in your professional headshots translates into confident, scroll stopping, experienced and knowledgable looking photos that help make you look amazing during virtual meetings and online interactions.
Increase website traffic and brand recognition. A first rate professional headshot on your website or LinkedIn profile makes you appear more credible and approachable, potentially leading to increased views, increased website traffic through better search engine traction which leads to better brand recognition.
Statistics Don’t Lie: The Power of Professional Headshots
Here are some compelling statistics I found that highlight the power of professional headshots:
-
- A LinkedIn profile with a headshot receives 14 times more profile views
-
- Recruiters are 34% more likely to contact a candidate with a professional headshot
-
- 70% of employers use social media to screen candidates
Chris was fantastic! I needed new headshots for my business. I found him through a google search and easily scheduled online. He was very good with follow up to make sure everything would go smoothly on picture day. Picture day was on a Monday and two days later I had my headshots via dropbox. The pictures came out really great because he was so patient and helpful during the shoot. I would definitely use him again. Highly recommend!
– JS – Atlanta/Jacksonville
You are 7x More Likely to be Found!
Although this article is intended to help mid-career people, the information is relevant and important for younger workers. Having photographed and spoken with hundreds of young executives under 40 years old and witnessed their successes (as noted in the article “Are Professional Headshots Worth it?” (Read Here) ), there are a lot of great tips in this story for everyone.
The importance of investing in your image/brand early in your career cannot and should not be under stated. As I note in my story “Elevate Your Brand in 2024 with Powerful Professional Portraits” where I say “Take a look at the big names – celebrities, business leaders, influencers, even well established brands. They fully understand the power of high-quality, intentional images and not only leverage them consistently, but also masterfully. They control their public facing images, the face of their brand and so can you.” (Read Here)
Beyond the Basics: What Makes a Great Headshot for Mature Professionals?
A professional headshot is more than just a snapshot. Here’s what you can expect from a skilled photographer like Cottrell Photographers near Jacksonville, Florida:
-
- Expert consultation: Discuss your goals and the image you would like to project. At Cottrell Photographers I’ll help you choose the right background, I’ll expertly light you and pose you to project the image you want to convey.
-
- Flawless lighting: Contemporary professional lighting techniques, like the ones I use, can minimize lines and blemishes to create a flattering and polished look.
-
- Wardrobe and styling advice: Unsure what to wear? You’re not alone with this! As an experienced professional photographer I offer an online “What to Wear” booklet and also I can offer guidance on clothing that flatters you, make you look and feel comfortable and helps achieve your desired professional image.
-
- Posing expertise: With many years experience photographing lots of different people I can coach expressions as well as knowing how to position you to create a confident and approachable demeanor.
-
- Digital retouching: With the technology available today I encourage my clients to take advantage of my retouching abilities (as seen on my website) so they will always present the best version of themselves. Gentle retouching by an expert can remove minor imperfections and enhance your natural beauty without creating an unrealistic image, remember authenticity is key. .
-
- Multiple image selection: I shoot “tethered” to a computer so you’ll see your photos pop up in real time. At the end we’ll review the photos and select the ones you would like retouched. On a large screen you’ll have the opportunity to choose the headshots that best reflect your personality, experience and professionalism.
“Chris has an amazing ability to understand exactly what’s needed for any industry or situation. He paid attention to the smallest details, ensuring everything from the lighting to the colors was spot on. The headshot wasn’t just a photo, but a reflection of my professional image and personality.”
– ND – St Johns
Embrace Your Age: Tips for Mature Professionals
I thought I would add a few additional tips to help you get the perfect professional headshot for you:
-
- Own your confidence! Confidence is key to a great headshot. I will help you relax, smile genuinely, and really let your personality and experience shine through.
-
- Embrace your natural beauty. Respectful and authentic retouching is key. Don’t try to hide wrinkles or gray hair, they are a badge of honor and convey experience and wisdom.
-
- Choose classic and timeless attire. As mentioned earlier in this article, you’ll have access to my “What to Wear” guide and myself to help you. Quick rule of thumb is to Opt for professional attire in neutral colors that flatter you and make you feel comfortable.
-
- Prioritize a good night’s sleep and stay hydrated! The simple things like drinking lots of water the day before your photo session, avoiding greasy foods a few days before and getting lots of sleep will keep you looking refreshed, natural and radiant in your professional portraits.
Investing in Yourself: The Value of Professional Headshots
No matter what age you are a top notch professional headshot has been proven time and time again to be a small investment with a big return. It’s a way to showcase your experience, confidence, and professionalism to the world! Consider a new or updated professional business portrait an investment in your personal brand and your future career success wherever you are in life stages.
Ready to Take Control of Your Online Image?
According to Efrem Bycer of LinkedIn’s article on the subject of “Older Job Seekers Having Profile Photos” He says:
“Yes! When it comes to a profile picture, every LinkedIn member should have one. Members with profile pictures receive 9X more connection requests, 21X more profile views, and 36X more messages than members without one. Regardless of age, people want to know the profile they’re looking at belongs to a real, living person.” Read the article here…
At Cottrell Photographers based in Ponte Vedra Beach near Jacksonville, Florida I specialize in helping mid-career and younger executives get the very best professional headshots available. Helping my clients relax in front of the camera, look and feel comfortable, confident and approachable is the secret to creating professional headshots that capture the essence of your experience and expertise. Don’t wait another minute! contact us today to schedule a consultation to discuss your headshot needs.
Don’t let your online profile leave a negative first impression. It’s never too late to get new business portraits Invest in a professional headshot and reach for the stars with photos that project the confident, experienced professional you are!
Chris Cottrell, Professional Headshot Photographer
Chris Cottrell is a seasoned professional portrait photographer with over 20 years of experience. He holds a Graphic Arts Degree from Brunel Technical College in the United Kingdom, ensuring you receive the beautiful images you seek.
Chris’s work has been recognized in various magazines, such as WNC magazine, Jacksonville Magazine,First Coast Life and he has won awards for his exceptional photography. As a Certified Professional Photographers of America (PPA) photographer, he guarantees high work standards for his clients.
Chris’s expertise lies in Professional Headshots, Business Portraits, Environmental/Business, and Corporate Lifestyle/Branding photography ensures his clients get the first rate photographs they would like.
