The Truth Behind Bad Headshots: It’s Not You, It’s the Photographer

Bad headshots are all over the place—on billboards, LinkedIn profiles, and even professional websites. You know the ones: awkward expressions, poor lighting, and stiff poses. As a photographer, I see them constantly, and it’s honestly pretty frustrating. But what really gets to me is that so many people think it’s their fault.

They assume they’re just unphotogenic. They think that no matter how many pictures they take, they can’t seem to look good in any of them. But here’s the thing: it’s not you. It’s the photographer.

Why You’re Not the Problem

A lot of people have this idea that they’re “just not photogenic.” Usually, it comes from one bad experience with a photographer who didn’t know how to bring out their best. Maybe the photographer didn’t know how to direct them or didn’t understand how to work with their features. They may have rushed through the session without considering how to make the client feel comfortable or how to adjust things like lighting to enhance their appearance.

The reality is, that everyone can have a great headshot. It’s all about technique, guidance, and knowing what works for you. A good photographer knows how to highlight your best qualities by paying attention to details like posture, expression, and lighting.

What a Photographer Should Be Doing

A photographer’s job is more than just snapping a photo. They need to direct you, make you feel comfortable, and help capture your natural expression. Lighting, angles, and composition all play a huge role in creating a headshot that feels genuine and professional. When these elements aren’t taken into account, the result is often a stiff, awkward, or unflattering image that doesn’t reflect your true self.

Many people end up with headshots that feel unnatural, and they mistakenly blame themselves for it. But the truth is, a good photographer should know how to work with your unique features, guide you into a comfortable pose, and capture you at your best.

It’s Not About Fancy Gear—It’s About Skill

A great headshot isn’t about expensive cameras or equipment—it’s about knowing how to use those tools to capture the right moment. A skilled photographer knows how to use lighting, adjust angles, and make sure you’re relaxed enough to show your true personality. They’ll make sure the setting helps you feel confident and ready to shine, rather than leaving you feeling awkward or stiff.

But just as importantly, they should be able to guide you through the session. That includes directing your pose, offering advice on facial expressions, and adjusting the environment so that it works for you. The photographer-client connection is key to a great headshot. Without it, the photo won’t reflect your professional presence or personality.

What to Look for in a Photographer

When you're looking for a photographer to take your headshot, make sure they understand what goes into making a great photo. A good photographer should:

• Make You Feel Comfortable: They should talk with you throughout the session, help you relax, and make sure you feel confident in front of the camera. Comfort leads to a more natural expression.

• Provide Direction: Whether it's how you stand or where to look, a photographer should guide you to ensure your posture and expression come across as approachable and professional.

• Use Professional Lighting: The right lighting can make a world of difference. A good photographer knows how to use light to highlight your best features and avoid harsh shadows.

• Understand Posing: A good pose can transform a photo. The photographer should know how to position you so that you look your best, creating an image that reflects professionalism and confidence.

• Retouch, But Keep It Real: While retouching is part of a good headshot, it should never make you look fake. The goal is to enhance your appearance, not to change it entirely.

The Bottom Line

If you're unhappy with your headshot, don’t blame yourself. Don’t think you're just one of those people who can’t take a good picture. More often than not, the issue lies with the photographer who didn’t know how to bring out your best self. When you work with the right photographer, you’ll walk away with a headshot that feels natural, professional, and true to who you are.

So next time you need a headshot, don’t settle for a mediocre photo. Find a photographer who knows how to make you look your best. After all, your headshot is more than just a picture—it’s the first impression you’ll make on potential clients, employers, and colleagues. You deserve a photo that shows you in the best possible light.