As the calendar flips to a new year, it’s natural to focus on renewal and growth. Whether you’re setting personal goals, working to advance your career, or simply looking to present your best self, a professional headshot is a powerful step toward achieving those ambitions. Here’s why now is the perfect time to refresh your headshot and how it can set the tone for your year ahead.
Why Update Your Headshot in the New Year?
First Impressions Matter
Your headshot is often the first thing people see on your LinkedIn profile, business website, or social media. Starting the year with a fresh, polished image signals confidence, professionalism, and a readiness to embrace new opportunities.
Your Current Headshot May Be Outdated
If your headshot is more than a couple of years old, it’s time for an update. Your appearance may have changed, or your current headshot might not align with your evolving career or personal brand.
New Goals, New Look
Whether you’re aiming for a promotion, launching a business, or expanding your professional network, an updated headshot can help you project the image that aligns with your aspirations.
Annual Budgets
Many companies have new budgets starting in January, making it an ideal time to allocate funds for professional photography.
New Positions
January often sees an uptick in hiring, so this is a great time for companies to hire a photographer to provide staff headshots. I travel on location within Toronto and the GTA to provide individual and team headshots. With my portable backdrop and lighting equipment, I can replicate my setup anywhere so ensure beautiful, consistent results in any environment. If your company doesn’t provide headshots, you can book your own at my studio.
What Makes a Great Headshot?
A high-quality headshot captures more than just your appearance—it conveys your personality, professionalism, and approachability. Key elements include:
Lighting
Photography literally means “drawing with light,” and lighting can make or break a photograph. While different photographers prefer different lighting styles for headshots, I like to keep my lighting soft and simple. My lighting flatters the skin, avoiding harsh shadows and unnatural catch lights.
Expression
Even more important than lighting is expression. We humans have so many micro expressions that convey subtle differences in mood and personality. My superpower is helping bring out those natural expressions and genuine smiles so that your headshot truly reflects who you are.
Wardrobe
Figuring out what to wear is a common pain point amongst clients. When you book a headshot session with me, I provide a free prep guide that includes suggestions on outfits and accessories. I also offer to help critique or narrow down your outfit choices, and you’re always welcome to bring a couple of options to your session if you can’t decide ahead of time.
Background
A clean, uncluttered background keeps the focus on you. Most of my clients opt for a bright white background, as it works with any outfit or hair colour. White backgrounds also make it easy to do background replacement, if that’s what you would like. Alternatively, I can shoot headshots on a black or neutral backdrop. If I’m shooting on location, I can use your work environment as the background.
Let’s Start Your Year with Confidence
Investing in a professional headshot is more than a photo session — it’s about presenting your best self to the world. Ready to take the leap? Book your headshot session today and let’s capture the look that will define your success in 2025.
