A Musician’s Headshot Guide: Choosing the Right Headshot Photographer

In many instances your CV and headshot precede you music...this is true for audience participants, orchestral interviews, covers and promotions; when someone can’t hear you play your headshot needs to elicit the same enthusiasm that you put into your craft. The musicians headshot is therefore an indispensable tool to showcase your personality.

Keep reading to discover five qualities you should consider when finding a headshot photographer that you love.


1) Personality.

Be sure to audition your photographer!  Give them a call and  get a feel for how a session progresses. Ask some questions about any concerns you might have with respect to your Headshots and the vision you have for them. If you don't have a vision, ask how your photographer might help you find one! Headshots are your visual representation and quite important to your personal brand and marketing efforts. A personable, excited, and synergistic connection with your photographer will help draw out your personality and eliminate awkwardness or apprehension.


2) What you see is what you get.

Be sure you find exampleIs of the type of end product you’re looking for. If you like the white seamless background for your headshots, then look for examples in your potential photographer’s portfolio. If you love the outdoors and aesthetic of an natural outdoor environment, then look for that aesthetic too. Photographers typically show work that is representative of their strongest skills, so it make sense to hire a photographer who specializes in the aesthetic you want.

Look through your intended photographer's blog along with their portfolio. Portfolios are great at featuring individual strong images, whereas, blogs feature many images from one session. This will provide a realistic idea of what to expect as your final product. Ideally you will find a variety of fantastic shots within each session, the more looks you have, the more v you’ll versatility you will have at providing appropriate images for every venue, every circumstance and every concert!


3) Reviews.

Like any great performer your headshot photographer should have some reviews. Be sure you read what past consumers have said, ask for references and follow up with them. Go beyond the star rating and look for consistency in the details. Reviews should help provide a little insight into what to expect from a session. In particular, look for comments on personality, deliverables, timeliness, technical excellence, and  overall quality.



SophterLight Photography specializes in photographing musicians in and around Yale's New Haven campus.


4) Enjoy your session and take the time needed.

For many of us the thought of a headshot session may not excite us, or perhaps it may even be somewhat intimidating, but I encourage you to challenge yourself to get psyched for the session. Anticipate and enjoy the time: "short and sweet" may sound ideal, but like any great performance practice and hard work delivers. The same is true for you session, be sure your photographer is willing to put the time in and show you progress during the shoot. But I Your first instinct is probably to be done with your headshots as soon as possible, but please reconsider! The more time you spend with your photographer, the more time you’ll have to open up and let your true personality shine. You’ll also pick up posing tips and tricks along the way that will help you throughout your career.


5) Costs: you get what you pay for.

As with most things, the amount you invest typically has a direct correlation to service level and overall value that you receive. Trusting you event to a quality, experienced photographer will leave you with the experience and images you want without any issues.
The choice is ultimately up to you, but I leave you with this to consider: If you are invested in creating professional images that are presented in stunning end products, it’s worth hiring a photographer who can plan your project and provide you with a unparalleled level of customer service.

Musician's Headshot Photography | Performance & Concert Photography
by SophterLight Photography
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I specialize in capturing the passions and personalities of the musicians I photograph.​ If you are familiar with my work or have been referred by a creative director, client or friend, then you know I approach things in a very relaxed and up-beat way. I appreciate and enjoy a very down-to-earth approach to people and photography. Rather than posing I merely observe how one carries him or herself and focus on the natural assets of the individual. I'm more interested in conveying a personality than glamorizing an individual--it's all about what is--and then highlighting that uniqueness to stand out. 
"The successful headshot image should be compelling enough to give pause to its viewer. Ideally the subject's impression will leave the viewer, either enchanted or curious to learn more."
                       
                                    -Mike, Owner
                                     SoptherLight Studios
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