First impressions are everything when you’re running a small business, and they’re not made with a firm handshake anymore; they’re made with a click!

According to research published by Princeton University psychologist Alex Todorov, it takes just a tenth of a second for someone to form an impression of you based on your photo. And in that fraction of a second, your profile picture; be it on LinkedIn, your website, a business card, or in your email signature–is doing all of the talking without it even saying a word!

This of course then naturally offers up the question; what is your headshot saying about you?

Well, for smaller business owners and freelancers, you are your brand! Your face, your vibe, your energy. All of these qualities are what communicates trust and professionalism to people, in many cases, before you’ve actually met them.

So in this article, I’m going to break down why quality headshots matter and how getting them just right can make all the difference to your brand’s perceived credibility and trust.

What Is A Headshot, Really?

Let’s go mythbusting for just a moment: a headshot isn’t simply a photo of your face!

Headshots (good ones at least) are carefully crafted images which genuinely represent you–your personality, your level of professionalism, in essence, your personal brand. And it does all of this in one frame. It’s the digital equivalent of eye contact and a confident introduction.

Traditionally, headshots were associated with stiff poses, plain backgrounds, and corporate suits. But thankfully, we’ve moved on. These days, a good headshot should still feel polished, but it should also feel authentic. A headshot is often the first impression you make online. Whether someone is checking out your LinkedIn or scanning a panel speaker list at an event, you’ve got a split second to connect. A professional headshot helps you do precisely that.

And yes, headshots are different from portraits.

Portraits are often more artistic or expressive, and while there’s definitely overlap, a headshot is more focused. It’s cropped tighter, framed in a way that keeps the viewer focused on you, and styled to communicate who you are in a business or professional context.

So if the last photo you’re using on your “About Me” page was taken at a friend’s wedding or cropped from a night out... it might be time for an upgrade.

Are Professional Headshots Worth It?

Running a business can be tough! There’s always another invoice to send or a bit of kit that needs upgrading, and so the question of “Do I really need a headshot?” is a question you may well have found yourself pondering over in the past.

It’s probably little surprise that I’m going to encourage your answer to be yes here. But there’s such strong reasoning for it. The truth is, a quality headshot isn’t just another thing on your to-do list. It’s an investment in how people see your brand. And in many cases, it’s doing work for you before you even step into the room (or Zoom call).

They Build Instant Trust

People have, and always will, work with those to whom they feel a stronger connection with. And yes, the building of a connection can in many cases start with your photo. A sharp, professional image tells people you care about how you show up. That you’re credible, considered, and someone they’d want to do business with.

They Help Reflect Your Brand

As mentioned earlier; you are your brand! Regardless of whether you’re a coach, designer, accountant or consultant—your clients aren’t just buying your service, they’re buying you. If your photo is outdated, unprofessional, or just doesn’t feel like you–the people who matter most, will notice!

They Help You Open New Doors

A good headshot can do more than just sit on your LinkedIn profile. It can help you land speaking gigs, media opportunities, client work, and collaborations— all because having a quality and professional headshot really makes you look like someone who takes themselves and their work seriously.

Where To Get Professional Headshots In Wimbledon (And London)

If you’ve been reading this far, I’d hedge my bets that you’re starting to see the value in investing in a professional headshot. The next question is often: “Where do I actually go to get one done properly?”

Good news though! If you’re based in Wimbledon, or just around London more generally, then you’re absolutely spoiled for choice.

That being said though, not all professional photographers are going to match what you’re looking for, and not every studio is going to give you the images that actually feel like you.

When you’re choosing where to get your headshots taken, it’s worth considering more than just the portfolio. Ask yourself:

● Will they make you feel comfortable in front of the camera?

● Do they understand the vibe and energy you want to project?

● Are they going to treat your headshot session like a box-ticking exercise, or like a proper brand-building experience?

This is where I like to think I come in. I don’t just point and shoot. I work with each client to make sure the experience is relaxed, collaborative, and (most importantly) personal. I’ve worked with a range of professionals across Wimbledon and London and with every shoot the goal has always been to make sure your headshots don’t just look professional, they look like you, at your absolute best.

Can You Take Your Own Headshot?

Technically? Yes. You absolutely can take your own headshot. Smartphones these days are more powerful than most DSLRs from a few years ago. There are tripods, ring lights, timers, and editing apps galore.

But just because you can doesn’t always mean you should.

Because here’s the thing most people don’t realise: professional headshots aren’t just about having the right gear. They’re about lighting that flatters your features, angles that bring confidence to the frame, and creating a space where you actually feel comfortable enough to be yourself and to capture that authenticity within a good image!

Great photographers don’t just press the shutter, they help guide you into poses that feel natural, help you relax, and capture expressions that actually reflect who you are and what you’re about. It’s not so much a photoshoot, it’s a collaboration between two professionals who share a goal of making you look amazing.

So Is It Time For A New Headshot?

Well, that depends on a few things. But since you’re reading this blog there’s every chance you’re considering it. So if you answer yes to any of the below then you’re probably due a studio day in order to show your best side to the people who matter!

● Are you a freelancer or small business owner?

● Are you in the middle of a rebrand or business refresh?

● Are you job hunting or positioning for new opportunities?

● Do you speak at events, appear on podcasts, or contribute to industry content?

● Is your current photo a crop from a wedding / holiday / your mate’s iPhone?

● Has it been more than two years since your last headshot?

Tips For Getting The Best Headshots

If you’ve booked a shoot (hopefully with me, but no hard feelings if you’ve chosen a different photographer) and you want to make sure you’re going to walk away with images you’re actually proud to use, then here’s a few simple and practical tips to make sure you’re giving yourself the best shot (pun slightly intended).

The Right Clothing

You don’t need to roll in with a wardrobe stylist or reinvent your look. But do wear something that makes you feel confident. Solid colours often work best on camera, and try to steer clear of loud patterns or logos that might distract from your face.

Match Your Brand, Not Just Your Job

If you’re a coach who helps people build confidence, or a designer who thrives on creativity—think about how that energy translates visually. Your photos should feel like a match for how you show up in your work, not just what’s written in your bio.

Rest, Hydrate & Don’t Overthink It

A good night’s sleep and a glass of water go a long way. But more importantly, don’t stress it. You’re not expected to be a model. You’re just expected to show up as yourself, and a good photographer will do the rest.

Choose The Right Photographer

This one’s bigger than people think. You’ll get better results when you feel comfortable, relaxed, and understood. So if you’re looking for a headshot photographer in Wimbledon or London, don’t just scroll the portfolio but have a chat, ask a few questions, and make sure the vibe’s right.

How Often Should You Update Your Headshot?

There isn’t particularly any hard and fast rule to follow here, but if your headshot no longer looks like you, it’s probably time for a refresh.

A good guide? Every couple of years. But also any time something shifts; maybe you've changed your hair, updated your glasses, grown a beard, or just evolved your brand and want your image to reflect that.

If your current photo makes you think “I haven’t looked like that in a while…” then the people seeing it probably notice, too.

And remember, a headshot isn’t just about looking current. It’s about feeling aligned with where you’re at right now, and where you’re heading next.

I’m Ready When You Are!

Have you found yourself nodding along to this post, quietly realising that your current headshot might not be cutting it anymore, well then consider this your sign to do something about it!

If you're based in Wimbledon or anywhere across London, and want a relaxed, collaborative shoot that gets you a professional headshot truly reflective of who you are, I’d 110% love to have a chat.

You can get in touch when you’re ready and together we can make something that feels like you at your best.

Why Businesses Need Professional Headshots And Tips For Getting The Best Headshots

What Is A Headshot, Really?