In a Pinch? Try Using Your Phone

It's the worst feeling when you're creating a profile or answering a request for an updated picture and you don't have a go-to picture you LOVE to use. When you're in a pinch, you can always turn to your phone to grab a quick headshot. I've put together a little guide to walk you through taking the best headshot with your phone.

All you’ll need is an outfit or two, a good location, a newer model phone camera or digital camera, and someone to snap the pictures for you!

Tip for what camera to use: While portrait mode on most phone camera looks really cool, it can be hard to get the perfect focus on your eyes. Stick to regular photo mode on your phone, or try a few in portrait mode and a few in photo mode. If you have access to a digital SLR camera (a camera with lenses that switch), use that on auto mode if the flash doesn’t go up. If the flash is popping up, switch to P (program) mode. If your photographer is not comfortable with an SLR camera, a phone camera with in focus images is still the better option!

What to Wear.

A nice solid top will work great. Textures, patterns, and layering work well too!

Pick a location.

After finding the outfit or two you would like, the next step is to find a good location for your pictures. The biggest thing we’re looking for is well lit pictures. That means finding somewhere near windows you can face if you’re inside. It’s best to be facing directly towards the window light, or angled just slightly so the light hits one side of your face a bit more than the other. If you’re outside, we want even light. Shadows in the shade from a building is the best way to get even light outside.

For a backdrop, we’re looking for solid colors. Buildings often have great exterior walls for this! If you want to add a little pop of greenery from plants, that’s great. Utilizing wood textures is great, too.

No matter where you take them, make sure it’s bright enough to not need a flash. We’re wanting to use natural light if possible.

Take Your Photos.

I’m including six different poses that are great go-to poses for any headshot. I find it works best to look at a photo and directly recreate it. You’ll see in the photos below that I’ve picked photos that work well for each gender.

Tip for the photographer: In every pose, try and shoot slightly above the subject instead of directly at their level. When posing by a wall, don't stand right in front of it. Try to stand about 6-10 feet in front so the wall becomes a bit blurry in the photo.