Do I need an author headshot?
Don’t be camera shy!
Your adoring fans—and yes, you will get them!—will want to know what you look like. I can’t remember who said it, but I once read that you should get a great photograph taken when you’re young and then just use that forever. LOL, except then you show up at events and no one knows who you are because your headshot was taken when you were thirty, and you’re far from that now!
But seriously, yes, you should invest in a quality author headshot. A few things to consider:
Maybe don’t use a photo of when you were out partying with friends, unless that will fit your overall brand and the vibe you’re trying to create.
When I was a photographer, I’d have people want to include their pets in their photos. This is fine, but definitely have one taken that is JUST you. You want to present a professional image in your book, online, and in other marketing materials, including your bio for any conferences or conventions where you’re invited to present. I love critters just as much as the next animal freak, but maybe save the photos of you and the cat/dog/horse/lizard for the About page on your website rather than front and center.
Avoid busy patterns when choosing your outfit. Houndstooth and checked patterns don’t always play nice with the camera! Less is more when it comes to a pleasing headshot, so go easy with your wardrobe and any props. (Maybe avoid props altogether.) And jewel tones are always a safe bet—most importantly, choose colors that complement your unique complexion.
Find a photographer who understands how to take headshots. Make sure to peruse their portfolio to see if their shooting style suits your taste.
If you wear makeup, flashes and strobes can wash you out. Take your makeup bag with you for touch-ups, or if you can swing it, hire a makeup artist or an appointment at Sephora or Ulta (or elsewhere) before your session.
If you’re not great at doing your own hair, consider springing for an appointment with your stylist either the day before or the day of your photo session.
If you wear glasses, have the photographer take a shot with and without them on. Sometimes the strobe/flash flare in the glasses can ruin an otherwise terrific photo. And we want to see your eyes!
Be aware of what you’re trying to communicate in your author photo. What do I want potential readers to think of me when they see my photo? Mystery, crime, and thriller writers might want something moodier than, say, a writer of romantic comedies. Horror writers will want a different vibe than a kidlit or romance writer. And if you write nonfiction or business books, definitely go with something professional that says “I know what I’m talking about.” Always think of your audience when choosing your clothing, setting, and even how you will smile.
Consider studio vs. natural light, and find a photographer who offers the service you prefer. Some are flexible, weather dependent—natural settings make for gorgeous photos.
Communicate with your photographer and be very clear on what assets they offer for the fee you’re paying. Every photographer handles their asset packaging separately, i.e., some will give you a ton of photos but will only retouch one or two; some will only give you a handful to choose from and retouching is extra, while still others charge a sitting fee and then the photographs themselves are priced separately. Also, ask if they can do a black-and-white conversion for you too. Always handy to have!
Don’t be afraid to post other images of yourself on social media or on your website beyond your official headshot, if you’re comfortable with that. I find that readers love to see “behind the curtain,” so I DO have photos of my cats, my hobbies, and my obsession with Superman on my author websites.
