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

Resolution:

​The first and most important thing to be aware of is that there are limitations to image resolution and quality with these types of shoots.

We will be using your laptop camera which, if it can do HD video, will mean the final photo is close to 1080 x 1920 pixels. But if your computer can only do SD, it will be around 480 x 720 pixels.

Either resolution is high enough for a professional LinkedIn photo or usage as a small image on a website, but if you need it in a larger format, we recommend shooting a standard, in-person photo session.

Also, keep in mind that the brighter the light, the sharper your final image will be. If you're in a dimly lit room, the photos won't be as crisp.

Two options for higher resolution: if you need higher resolution photos, you can either ask a friend to assist during the shoot or re-take your headshot afterwards with a smartphone camera, using the same lighting setup and tricks we taught you during the virtual session. Simply email us the smartphone high-res photo you'd like to use, and we'll retouch that one instead.

​Related: Headshot Size & Cropping Rules

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Retouching:

In order to make your final image look extremely 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 sent original, 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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Preparing for the Shoot

It's important to position yourself properly and ensure your video chat service is set for "HD" if possible.


Positioning Yourself:

Note: If you're doing an outdoor shoot, you will need the assistance of a friend. This section will show you how to set up for an indoor shoot. Ideally, you'll need a laptop for best results – an iPad or smartphone is more difficult to hold in place (unless you're very creative).

1. Find a table and chair and position them in front of a bright window. Make sure the window does 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 a few inches higher):

Technical Setup:

Now that you've positioned yourself, you need to make sure that your computer is ready for our video chat, on the highest possible video quality setting.

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 can also 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 take higher quality pictures of you. Open up Zoom settings (towards the top of the screen), go to the "Video" tab, and check "Enable HD."

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

If you're just about to start the call and cannot get into the meeting, send an email directly to Martin at martin@cityheadshots.com and he can help or he'll call your cell phone to guide you through the process.

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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, and feel free to email us if you have further questions!