Keep the posture open
Turn the shoulders slightly away while keeping the face toward the lens. Drop the shoulders, lengthen the neck, and leave space above the head for platform cropping.
Crossed arms can work if the forearms stay low and both hands remain visible. High, tight crosses read as defensive.
Use soft light and a quiet background
Window light or open shade is enough for most personal-brand photos. Avoid harsh overhead office lighting that creates deep eye sockets. Keep the background simple so the face stays primary.
Give the hands a professional job
A notebook, desk lean, or one hand in a pocket can stop the “what do I do with my arms?” freeze. Keep screens locked and documents unreadable if any desk props appear.
- Breathe out before the smile so the expression settles.
- Focus on the nearest eye for close headshots.
- Take one formal frame, then one slightly candid glance away.
Use a full set for profile and about-page variety
One headshot is rarely enough for a website, speaker page, and LinkedIn banner crop. The professional pose book gives twelve options across headshot, seated, and environmental frames so you can stay consistent without repeating one expression.