How to Stay Relaxed and Natural During Your Headshot Session

Let’s be real—most people don’t exactly look forward to having their photo taken. I hear it all the time:

“I’m so awkward in front of the camera.”
“I never like photos of myself.”
“Can you just Photoshop me into someone else?” 😅

Here’s the good news: looking natural and confident in your headshot has nothing to do with being photogenic—and everything to do with how comfortable you feel during your session. At Denver-Headshots, I’ve spent years creating a studio experience that helps even the most camera-shy professionals relax, have fun, and leave loving their photos.

Whether you're updating your LinkedIn, launching a business, or stepping into a new leadership role, here are my top tips for staying relaxed and natural during your headshot session.

1. Wear What Makes You Feel Confident

Forget the idea that you need to wear a stiff blazer or uncomfortable outfit because it looks “professional.” If you’re fidgeting or adjusting your clothes every five seconds, it’ll show in the photos. Wear something that fits well, makes you stand tall, and feels like you—just the polished version.

Need help choosing? I always send my clients a prep guide and offer wardrobe consultations, so you don’t have to stress about it.

2. Focus on Connection, Not Perfection

The most compelling headshots don’t come from perfect poses or expressions—they come from authenticity. I’ll coach you through every step: how to hold your body, where to place your hands, and even how to breathe so you feel relaxed and present. We’ll talk and laugh throughout the shoot, so your personality naturally shines through.

My clients often say they forgot they were even being photographed—that’s when we get the gold.

3. Practice with Your Expression

Not sure how to “smile naturally”? You’re not alone. Try this:

• Look in a mirror and say the word “Hey!” like you’re greeting an old friend.

• See that expression? That’s the magic one.
  
  
  

Don’t worry, I’ll guide you into micro-adjustments—like softening your eyes or angling your chin—until everything feels right. I never rush, and we’ll take time to find your signature look.

4. Trust the Process

You don’t have to be a model to take great headshots. You just have to be yourself. My job is to take the pressure off you so you can show up fully and authentically. I’ve worked with hundreds of professionals across Denver who walked in nervous and left feeling like total rockstars.

It’s my mission to make this a stress-free, even enjoyable, part of leveling up your personal brand.

5. Bring a Little Humor Into It

If there’s one secret weapon to getting a great headshot, it’s this: don’t take yourself too seriously. I’ll cue up some light music, crack a few bad jokes, and keep the vibe relaxed. The more fun we’re having, the more you will shine through.

You deserve a headshot that reflects the confident, capable, and approachable pro you truly are. And you don’t have to fake it or force it to get there. When you book a session at Denver-Headshots, we take care of the details so you can focus on being you—relaxed, empowered, and ready to be seen.

Headshots vs. Portraits: Understanding the Difference and Their Uses

When you’re the face of your business—or rising to the top of your field—how you present yourself visually matters. I work with professionals all across Denver who understand that one strong image can make the difference between being seen and being remembered. One of the most common questions I hear in the studio is: “What’s the difference between a headshot and a portrait?” While they may seem similar, they serve very different purposes—and knowing which one you need is key to standing out with intention.

Let’s break it down.

What Is a Headshot?

A professional headshot is a tightly cropped image focused on your face, typically from the shoulders up. It’s meant to clearly show your features, express confidence, and convey your personality in a polished, approachable way. This is the image you’ll want for:

• LinkedIn profiles

• Company websites and bios

• Speaking engagements or press features

• Business cards and email signatures

• Real estate or service-based professional marketing
  
  
  

Headshots are your digital handshake. In a fast-scrolling world, they’re your first impression—one that should say: “I’m an expert. I’m trustworthy. I’m here to make an impact.”

What Is a Portrait?

Portraits, on the other hand, give you a little more creative room. They include more of your body and environment, and they can be used to tell a broader story about who you are or what you do. These are ideal for:

• Personal branding

• Website banners and about pages

• Marketing materials and ads

• Social media content

• Book covers or media kits
  
  

In my Denver studio, I often shoot both headshots and branding portraits in one session, so clients walk away with a mix of high-impact images that suit all their professional needs. A portrait might show you in action—consulting with clients, writing at your desk, or leading a team—which adds depth to your brand presence.

Which One Do You Need?

If you're a CEO, entrepreneur, real estate agent, or thought leader, you need both. A strong headshot gets you in the door; a compelling portrait tells the rest of the story once you're inside.

Think of it this way:

• Headshot = Your introduction

• Portrait = Your reputation

When done right, they work together to build trust, credibility, and a personal connection before you ever speak a word.

Why This Matters in the Denver Market

Denver is growing fast, and professionals here are raising the bar across every industry—from tech and finance to wellness and law. Your online presence should rise with it. Investing in high-quality headshots and portraits isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about showing up with intention, consistency, and authority.

Whether you’re booking your first session or updating your look to match a new level of success, I’m here to help you show up with confidence. At Denver-Headshots Photography Studio, we’ll guide you through everything—from wardrobe and poses to expression coaching and brand alignment—so you walk away with photos that do more than look good. They work for you.

Executive Headshots: A Tool for Leadership Branding

As the face of your business and a testament to your professional image, an executive headshot is more than just a photograph—it's a powerful tool for leadership branding. I'm Kellie Henriksen, a professional photographer specializing in executive headshots in the Denver Metro area. Today, I want to explore how a high-quality headshot can enhance your professional presence and help you stand out as a leader in your field.

Why Executive Headshots Matter

In the digital age, your online persona often makes the first impression. Whether it’s on your company website, LinkedIn profile, or even media releases, your headshot can speak volumes before you even say a word. For entrepreneurs and high-level professionals, an executive headshot is crucial in establishing credibility and authority. It shows you take your role and your business seriously, and you're committed to quality in every aspect—including your visual presentation.

The Impact on Professional Image

A great headshot does more than show your face; it reflects your brand’s values and your own professional ethos. It should convey confidence, approachability, and competence. These are key traits that potential clients and colleagues perceive subconsciously when they see your photo. At Denver-Headshots, we focus on capturing images that not only look great but also align with your professional branding and help you make an impactful first impression.

Tailored to Your Unique Brand

Every leader has a unique story and a distinctive style. That’s why customizing your headshot to reflect your personal brand and industry is essential. Whether you’re a tech entrepreneur, a financial advisor, or a creative director, your headshot should mirror the nuances of your profession and your personality. We work closely with you to choose the right backdrop, attire, and pose that best suit your professional identity.

The Process: Seamless and Professional

Understanding the busy schedules of Denver’s entrepreneurs and executives, we ensure that our headshot sessions are efficient, comfortable, and tailored to fit your needs. Our studio is equipped with state-of-the-art lighting and camera technology, and we offer guidance on every aspect of the shoot—from wardrobe to post-session image selection.

Investing in a professional executive headshot is investing in your brand and your future. It's not just about having a flattering photo; it's about owning a tool that enhances your leadership branding and sets you apart in a competitive market.