How to Prepare for a "Virtual" Headshot Session

We're excited to have the opportunity to take your new headshots!

In this guide we'll outline what you can expect and how to prepare.

Example of a "Virtual Headshot" on LinkedIn.

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​What You Can Expect

Keep in mind that in order to make your final image look professional, we will be retouching your favorite shot.

In retouching, we'll change or blur the backdrop, adjust the brightness and color in the photo, and fix blemishes and flyaway hairs, plus whiten teeth.

Be aware that you'll be seeing unmodified photos at first, which will look unprofessional. This is because they have not yet been fixed up, so try to ignore the unprofessional background, etc., and choose the one you like best based on your own body position and expression.

Then we will finalize it and send it back for your approval.

​Take a look at the before and after image below so you know what can be done. As you can see, we can put any backdrop behind you and customize the lighting to ensure it looks realistic.

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​Option 1 - The Classic Virtual Headshot
Preparing for a Laptop Shoot

This is the most common option and doesn't require anyone to assist you during the shoot. We will take photos of you through your own laptop, and retouch it afterwards to ensure your final image looks highly professional.

To save time, it's important you set up properly beforehand and ensure your video chat service is set for "HD" if possible.


Positioning:

Note: Ideally, you'll need a laptop for best results – an iPad or smartphone is more difficult to hold in place without the help of someone else.

1. Find a table and chair and position them in front of a bright window. Make sure the window will not have direct sunlight shining on you.
2. Find some books and pile them up. Balance your laptop on top of them so the laptop is about three inches higher than eye level. If you don't have books, you can use a cardboard box or anything else you find.
3. Tilt the laptop down so your head is towards the top of the frame. We want to see some of your body in the shot (while also making sure your hair is not cut off).

Take a look at the image below to get an idea of what the setup looks like (note: the laptop should have been tilted a tiny bit down so her head would be higher in the frame):

Technical Setup:

Now that you've positioned yourself, you need to make sure that your computer is ready for our video chat.

1. Install Zoom by using the link that was provided to you or clicking here. You should definitely do this before the start of the photoshoot because sometimes it can take a few minutes.
2. Make sure everything is working properly. Try joining the meeting link that was sent to you. It might say "Waiting for the host to start the meeting." If that's the case, you know you have the right link. You could try creating a new meeting to test and make sure your video and audio are functioning properly.
3. Ensure HD video is enabled. If your computer can do HD, you should because it will allow us to see you better for directing your expression. But even if your computer can't do HD, it's totally fine. Open up Zoom settings (towards the top of the screen), go to the "Video" tab, and check "Enable HD."
4. Make sure you have a smartphone. You will need it during the shoot, and we'll explain what to do with it once the session begins.

If you have trouble with any of these steps, feel free to email us at info@cityheadshots.com and we'll help you out.


IMPORTANT: If you're needing a half body shot (or something further out), we recommend having a friend assist so you can be standing (instead of sitting) during the shoot. See Option 2 below.

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​Option 2 - More Variety
Preparing for a Shoot with a Friend

If you have some available to assist during the shoot, you can get more body positions and you'll be able to stand during the shoot.

Positioning:

1. Position yourself facing towards a bright window, about 6 feet away. Make sure the window does not have direct sunlight shining on you.
2. Your friend should be standing with his/her back to the window, holding your smartphone. Make sure the smartphone is about 2-3 inches above your eye height. They should zoom in a bit by pinching so that you fill up most of the frame – but are NOT cropping off the sides of your body.
3. Tilt the smartphone down so your head is towards the top of the frame. We want to see some of your body in the shot (while also making sure your hair is not cut off). The image can be cropped at about your waist.

Take a look at the video below to get an idea of what the setup looks like:

Technical Setup:

Now that you've positioned yourself, you need to make sure that we are able to see you properly to guide both you and your friend during the shoot.

1. Set up your laptop somewhere off to the side so we can see both of you (similar to the position of the person who took the picture of the photographer and client above). You should have a place in mind to leave your laptop before the start of the photoshoot because sometimes it can take a few minutes to figure out where to put it. Note: putting it on the floor works just fine!
2. Install Zoom by using the link that was provided to you or clicking here. You should definitely do this before the start of the photoshoot because sometimes it can take a few minutes.
3. Make sure your Zoom link is working properly. Try joining the meeting link that was sent to you. It might say "Waiting for the host to start the meeting." If that's the case, you know you have the right link. You can try creating a new meeting to test and make sure your video and audio are functioning properly.
4. Try taking a test photo with your camera. To be sure that your smartphone is working properly and the image looks OK, try having your friend take a couple quick test shots so you can see what they look like. We'll guide you through the process when the shoot begins, but over-preparing is always helpful!

If you have trouble with any of these steps, feel free to email us at info@cityheadshots.com and we'll help you out.

After the shoot is finished, you'll email your favorite photo to us to retouch!

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What to Wear?

The only other thing to think about is what you'll be wearing for the shoot.

Here is a great guide on what colors and clothing work best for headshots.

​We're looking forward to your shoot! Feel free to email us if you have further questions :)