First time getting headshots? Here's what to expect
If you’ve never had professional headshots taken before, it’s easy to imagine the worst: awkward posing, forced smiles, or a camera way too close to your face. Fortunately, that’s not how we do things.
Let's go over exactly what happens at one of our sessions, so you can show up feeling prepared and confident.
When you arrive
Our studio is upstairs at Ainslie shops. Look for the door that says Thorson Photography. It will be locked so ring the doorbell and we’ll let you in.
Once inside we’ll show you around the studio and explain how the session will run. If you’ve brought more than one outfit, we’ll help you decide what looks best. Not sure what to wear? We wrote a guide.
There’ll be a chance to check yourself in the mirror before we start, but you should arrive ready to begin—hair done, makeup on, and mostly dressed. Sessions are short so you don’t want to waste any time getting ready.
During the session
We’ll guide you through the whole thing. That includes posture adjustments, head angles, and expression prompts that help you look natural on camera.
You’ll go through a few simple variations in expressions and body position. We take a bunch of photos so you end up with plenty of options when it’s time to choose your images.
You don’t need to know how to pose. Most people don’t. That’s what we’re here for.
Back at home
You’ll get access to an online proof gallery within a few hours. These previews are unedited and designed to help you pick the images you like the most.
Once you’ve made your selections, we do a basic edit on each one — adjusting things like colour, brightness, and skin tone — and deliver the final images as high-resolution files. You get clean, ready-to-use headshots with no watermarks or locked galleries.
That’s a wrap
We make the process straightforward from start to finish. You’ll leave with quality images that reflect who you are and what you bring to the industry.
How to take a great headshot with just your phone (and maybe a friend)
Taking a great headshot with your phone is easier than you might think! With a few simple tips and tricks, you can create professional-looking photos that will help you stand out on social media or on your website.
Find Good Lighting
Good lighting is key for any photo, and headshots are no exception. Natural light is usually the best option for headshots, so try to take your photo near a window or outdoors on a cloudy day. Avoid using flash, as it can create harsh shadows and make your photo look unnatural.
Choose a Simple Background
When it comes to headshots, it's important to choose a background that won't distract from your face. A plain wall or a simple piece of fabric can work well. Avoid busy backgrounds with a lot of patterns or textures, as they can be distracting.
Work your angles
Finding a good angle is crucial. Try tilting your head slightly and looking slightly up or down at the camera, rather than straight on. This can help create a more interesting and dynamic photo.
Take Multiple Photos
Finally, don't be afraid to take several photos to increase your chances of getting a great shot. Experiment with different poses and angles, and try something new. With a little practice, you'll be able to take great headshots with your phone in no time!
Give up and hire a pro
Of course, if you've tried all that and still can't get a good photo you can feel free to book in with us. We've taken thousands of headshots and would love to take yours as well!
What to wear (and what to avoid) for your actor headshot
When you book a headshot session, it’s natural to overthink what to wear. Here's the good news: simple works best.
Choose clothes that don’t distract
Go for plain colours, simple textures, and clothes that feel like you. You want the focus to be on your face, not your outfit.
- Stick to solid colours. Neutrals like navy, black, grey, cream, and olive are reliable.
- Avoid busy patterns, logos, or shiny fabrics—they pull attention away from your expression.
Think about your type
Are you auditioning for roles that are warm and friendly, or serious and intense? Choose clothes that hint at your casting range. A soft jumper feels different from a structured blazer.
- Comedy roles? Try a relaxed look—t-shirt or open shirt.
- Drama or classical theatre? Consider something more polished like a collared shirt or blouse.
Prioritise fit and comfort
If it’s tight, itchy, or you’re tugging at it between shots—it’ll show in the photo.
- Choose clothes that fit well and don’t need adjusting.
- Avoid low-cut tops or anything that bunches around your shoulders or neck.
Dress like yourself (on your best day)
You don’t need to look like someone else. You just need to look like a castable, confident version of yourself. That’s what your headshot is for!
The proper way to crop your LinkedIn profile photo
If you're looking to make a great first impression on LinkedIn, the right profile photo can make all the difference. But how do you ensure that your photo looks professional and polished? Here are some tips to help you crop your LinkedIn profile photo the right way.
Keep it tight
When cropping your photo, you want to make sure that your head and shoulders are the focus. Avoid including too much background or extraneous details that might distract from the main subject of the photo.
Centre your nose and mouth
While it may be tempting to centre your head in the photo, this can actually make your photo look less professional. Instead, aim to position your nose and mouth in the center of the crop. This will help create a more visually pleasing composition and make your photo look more balanced.
Cut your head off
Wait, what? Yes, you read that right. When cropping your photo, it's actually a good idea to cut off the top of your head slightly. This might sound counterintuitive, but it can actually help create a more polished and professional look. By cutting off the top of your head, you draw more attention to your face and create a sense of symmetry in the photo.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your LinkedIn profile photo looks professional and polished. Remember, your photo is often the first impression that potential employers or clients will have of you, so it's worth taking the time to get it right.
How to get noticed on LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a powerful tool for networking and career advancement. However, with so many users on the platform, it can be difficult to stand out from the crowd. Here are some tips to help you get noticed.
Optimise your profile
Your LinkedIn profile is your digital resume, so it's important to make sure it's polished and professional. Be sure to include a professional headshot, a catchy headline, and a summary that showcases your skills and experience. Use keywords related to your industry to make your profile more searchable.
Share valuable content
Sharing valuable content is a great way to establish yourself as a thought leader in your industry. Share articles, blog posts, and other content that is relevant to your field and that your connections will find valuable. Don't forget to add your own commentary to spark conversation and engagement.
Engage with others
Engaging with others on LinkedIn can help you build relationships and expand your network. Comment on posts, share your own thoughts and insights, and participate in group discussions. This will help you get noticed by others in your industry and can lead to new opportunities.
Make it personal
Avoid using the default message when sending connection requests. Personalise each request by mentioning a common interest or explaining why you want to connect. A thoughtful and personalised message increases the likelihood of your request being accepted.
Be consistent
Consistency is key on LinkedIn. Make sure you're posting regularly and engaging with others on a consistent basis. This will help you stay top of mind and increase your visibility on the platform.
How to prepare for your Boring Headshot
From choosing the right outfit to doing your hair and makeup, we'll make sure you're ready to shine. So take a deep breath, relax, and let's get started!
Get some rest
If possible, try to get some rest. A good night's sleep help you look and feel your best.
Choose what you’ll wear
Pick a nice, clean (preferably ironed) outfit that makes you feel confident. Bright colours or patterns can be fun, but solid colours usually work best. Remember to avoid clothes with big logos or distracting patterns.
Still not sure what to wear? We wrote a whole article on the subject.
Do your hair
This isn’t the time to try something new so choose a hairstyle that you've had success with before. If you're planning on getting a haircut before the session make sure you do it at least a week in advance to allow time for it to settle. Bring a brush or comb and some hairspray to touch up your hair if needed.
Go easy on the makeup
Makeup should be applied lightly and shouldn't be too different from your everyday look. This is a headshot, not a glamour shoot, so you want to look like yourself. We can remove zits and other blemishes in Photoshop, so there's no need to try to cover everything.
Relax and have fun
It's normal to feel a little nervous, but try to relax, laugh and be yourself. Trust us to do our job and don't be afraid to have a little fun. The more relaxed you are, the better your headshot will turn out.
What to wear in your Boring headshot
Dress the part
The way you dress can make a big difference in the final result. Choose an outfit that is appropriate for your job and industry. In some cases that may be a suit, a cute dress, or even just jeans and a t-shirt. If you aren’t sure you probably won’t regret dressing up just a little.
Choose clothes that fit well
This might sound obvious but you should always wear clothes that fit well. Avoid anything that's too baggy or too tight. Also avoid necklines that are too high or too low. V-necks are usually a good option as they elongate your neck and create a more balanced look. It’s probably best to avoid sleeveless shirts unless you absolutely love your arms.
Stick to solids
Busy patterns and prints can be distracting so it's best to stick with solid colours. Neutral tones like black, beige, and white are always safe but don’t be afraid to add a pop of colour. A bright accessory or a coloured shirt can add personality. Just be sure to choose a colour that complements your skin tone and doesn't clash with the background of your photos.
Go easy on the makeup
Wear makeup if you normally wear makeup but don’t go overboard, you still want to look like yourself. Pimples and other blemishes are easily removed in photoshop so there’s no need to try to cover everything.
Be yourself
Feel free to break the rules! It’s important to choose an outfit that makes you feel confident and reflects your style. So if you have a favourite outfit, wear it!
A few simple things you can do to improve your LinkedIn profile
Your LinkedIn profile is essentially an online version of your resume, so it's important to make it as complete and accurate as possible. By following these tips, you can improve your LinkedIn profile and increase your visibility on the platform.
Use a professional profile photo
Your profile photo is the first thing that people will see when they come across your profile, so it's important to make a good impression. A professional photo can help people remember you and put a face to your name. It's also a good idea to use the same photo on all of your social media profiles, so people can easily recognize you across different platforms. It just so happens we take pretty good photos.
Add a clear and concise headline
Your headline is the second thing that people will see on your profile, so it's important to make it catchy and informative. Your headline should accurately describe who you are and what you do in a few short words. It's also a good idea to include keywords that relate to your industry, as this can help people find you when they search for those terms on LinkedIn.
Fill out your summary section
Your summary is your chance to tell people more about yourself and your professional background. This is where you can highlight your experience, skills, and achievements. Your summary should be well-written and easy to read, so it's a good idea to use bullet points and short paragraphs. Be sure to include any relevant information, such as your education, awards, and professional certifications.
Add details to your work experience section
Your work experience is an important part of your LinkedIn profile, as it shows people what you have done in the past and what you are capable of. Be sure to include the names of the companies you have worked for, your job titles, and your responsibilities. You should also include any relevant achievements, such as projects you have worked on or awards you have received.
Include any relevant skills and endorsements
Your skills and endorsements are another way for people to see what you are good at and what you can offer. Be sure to include any skills that are relevant to your industry, as well as any endorsements or recommendations that you have received from other LinkedIn users. This can help people see that you are credible and trustworthy.
What to Expect
So you’re getting a headshot! Here’s everything you need to know.
Our studio is upstairs at 13b Edgar St, Ainslie Shops. Look for the door that says "Thorson Photography.” Parking is free but limited so please allow a few extra minutes to find a space.
What to Expect
It won’t be as bad as you think. You might even have fun! We’ll probably ask you to do things that feel weird, like twist in a way that feels unnatural or to wiggle your body. Trust us. We’re on your side and we want your final images to look great. The more you relax and just go with it the better your images will be.
What to Wear
Wear whatever you like but don't overdress. You want to look like yourself. Wear clothes that fit well. Bold colours are great but try to avoid anything with really busy patterns. They can be distracting in headshots. Jewellery is good. If in doubt bring multiple outfits and we can help you decide.
Wear makeup if you normally wear makeup but don’t go overboard. We can remove pimples and other blemishes in photoshop so there’s no need to try to cover everything. Maybe bring a hairbrush if it's a windy day.
And please remember our “headshots” include a lot more than your head and shoulders so be sure to dress from head to toe. Don’t wear anything you don’t want to be seen in the photo.
After the Shoot
Shortly after the shoot we'll send you a link to online gallery where you can view all the images and pick your favourites.
And don't forget to stop by the Ainslie IGA on your way out. It's the best in Australia and has a terrific cheese section!
5 Tips for Better Headshots
Dress the part
Simple is best, it's a good idea to stay away from crazy patterns and don't be afraid of colour, bold colours can look excellent. Wear something you feel good in.
Go easy on the makeup
Remember this is a headshot not a fashion campaign. It's best to look fresh faced and natural. If you're getting your makeup done by a professional emphasise "less is more."
Bring a hairbrush
It’s always good to bring a hairbrush so you can give your hair a quick once-over. Bald people excepted.
Be yourself
It's easy to scroll through all our example images and find someone to copy. Don't. Instead choose the background you like best, wear your favourite outfit...the one you always feel good in and smile. This headshot is about you.
Relax
We know you hate having your photo taken but try not to stress about it. We promise it won't hurt.