Philadelphia Headshots: How to Choose the Right Photographer
With the right photographer, professional headshots will show off your personality and personal brand.
If the idea of getting professional headshots makes you cringe a little, you’re not alone!
A lot of people picture stiff poses, awkward smiles, and overly corporate photos that don’t actually feel like them. But a good headshot should feel natural, confident, and approachable — not forced.
Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn profile, building a personal brand, applying for jobs, promoting your business, or just want photos that genuinely feel like you, choosing the right photographer makes all the difference.
As a Philadelphia-based photographer, I work with creatives, professionals, entrepreneurs, performers, and small business owners to create relaxed, personality-driven headshots that feel polished without feeling overly staged.
What Makes a Good Headshot?
The best headshots do more than just show what you look like.
They communicate energy, confidence, and personality within seconds. A strong headshot should feel approachable, authentic, and aligned with how you actually want to present yourself online.
That doesn’t mean you need to know how to pose or feel “photogenic” beforehand. Most people I work with say they’re nervous in front of the camera at first — and that’s completely normal.
A good photographer will guide you through the process, help you feel comfortable, and create an environment where natural expressions can happen instead of forcing overly posed moments.
Some of the biggest things that impact a great headshot include:
• Natural expression
• Good lighting
• Comfortable posing
• Clean editing that still looks like you
• Wardrobe choices
• Choosing the right location and background
Studio vs Outdoor Headshots in Philadelphia
One of the biggest decisions when planning headshots is whether to shoot in a studio or outdoors.
Studio headshots tend to feel more polished and traditional. They’re great for corporate professionals, actors, therapists, and anyone wanting a clean, timeless look.
Outdoor headshots often feel more relaxed, creative, and personal. Philadelphia has tons of great locations for this style — from the streets of Center City to industrial textures, murals, parks, and quieter neighborhood corners with softer natural light. I often help clients choose locations based on the vibe they want their photos to communicate.
For creatives, artists, entrepreneurs, and small business owners, outdoor sessions can help your photos feel more dynamic and approachable while still looking professional. To see more on what’s included in my studio and outdoor sessions, view my photography packages.
Outdoor headshots offer a relaxed option for creatives, artists, and entrepreneurs in Philadelphia.
What Should You Wear for Professional Headshots?
The goal is to look like the best version of yourself — not someone completely different.
A few simple tips usually work best:
• Stick with solid colors or subtle patterns
• Avoid large logos or overly busy prints
• Bring layers or jacket options for variety
• Wear something that feels elevated but still authentic to your style
• Prioritize clothing that makes you feel confident and comfortable
It’s also important to consider the backdrop color when choosing an outfit — the worst is wearing a white shirt if you’re going to be photographed in front of a white background! I always recommend bringing a few outfit options to sessions so we can create different looks and choose what photographs best. When in doubt, I am happy to consult about what outfit choices will work best for our photoshoot.
With simple styles, outfits compliment without distracting from your headshots.
Who Needs Professional Headshots?
Professional headshots aren’t just for corporate offices anymore.
I regularly photograph:
• Creatives and artists
• Small business owners
• Musicians and performers
• Therapists and wellness professionals
• Realtors
• Corporate professionals
• Actors
• Hospitality and nightlife professionals
• Entrepreneurs and freelancers
In today’s world, your online presence often creates someone’s first impression of you before you ever meet in person. Having professional photos that feel genuine can make a huge difference.
My Approach to Headshots
My approach is focused on creating a relaxed environment where people can actually feel comfortable being photographed.
I know a lot of people come into sessions nervous or convinced they’re “awkward” in photos. My job is to guide you through the process in a way that feels collaborative and low-pressure rather than stiff or overly posed.
I aim for headshots that feel natural, expressive, and true to who you are — while still looking polished and professional. You can learn more about me and my approach as a photographer in my bio.
As an LGBTQIA+ affirming photographer based in Philadelphia, creating an inclusive and welcoming environment is also deeply important to me.
With the right photographer, headshots will feel true to you — polished but still imbued with creative energy.
Why Working With an Inclusive Photographer Matters
Feeling comfortable during a headshot session matters just as much as the final images themselves. Working with an inclusive photographer means working with someone who respects your identity, listens to how you want to present yourself, and creates an environment where you can genuinely relax and feel seen.
Whether you’re LGBTQIA+, gender nonconforming, or neurodivergent, feeling safe and understood during your photoshoot can completely change the experience of getting headshots — and it shows in the final photos. The best headshots happen when people feel comfortable enough to actually be themselves.
If you’d like to see more of my work, head over to my headshots page.
