A Day in the Studio: Professional Portrait Session for a C-Suite Executive
Our client, a female executive at the C-suite level, came to Kimberley Archer Studios with a clear goal: to update her online presence with portraits that reflect her professionalism, confidence, and leadership. She wanted to look smart, approachable, and polished for her corporate profile, social media, and industry publications.
Crafting a Polished Professional Look
We started the session by discussing her vision and how she wanted to be perceived online. Her goal was to communicate authority and confidence while maintaining an approachable and personable tone. We worked together to select outfits that matched her style—sophisticated but not overly formal, with clean lines and neutral tones to keep the focus on her expressions.
Thoughtful Posing for an Executive Presence
Throughout the shoot, we focused on poses that conveyed strength, yet felt natural and unforced. We balanced confident postures with a few relaxed, conversational shots to offer variety. These poses allowed us to capture different facets of her leadership style—both authoritative and personable.
Key Elements of a Strong Headshot
Tailored Lighting to Enhance Features
Lighting was a key element in this session, designed to accentuate her features while maintaining a professional tone. Soft but structured lighting was used to create a flattering, polished effect, ensuring her portraits conveyed confidence without harshness.
- POSTURE
- EXPRESSION
- CLOTHING
- LIGHTING
Final Results: A Professional Yet Approachable Presence
The final portraits captured the essence of her leadership while emphasizing her approachable side. Whether she’s leading a boardroom or engaging with colleagues online, these images reflect her as a smart, confident professional who’s in control and connected to her team.
A Strong Headshot Reflects Confidence Professionalism
The Power of a Strong Headshot
Take into consideration the industry you work in—someone in the corporate world might lean towards a more formal image, while a creative professional can afford a bit more flexibility in terms of expression and attire. For example, a CEO may opt for a business suit and neutral background to project authority, while an artist or writer might choose a more relaxed pose or playful background to showcase creativity. The key is authenticity; a headshot that reflects your true self will naturally exude confidence and professionalism.
Key Elements of a Strong Headshot
POSTURE: A well-composed headshot starts with posture. Stand or sit up straight, but not so stiff that you appear uncomfortable. A strong posture reflects authority and stability—qualities that immediately translate into confidence. Whether you’re facing the camera head-on or slightly angled, the way you carry yourself in the frame says a lot about your self-assurance.
EXPRESSION: Your facial expression is equally important. A genuine smile or a relaxed, neutral expression can make you appear approachable and friendly. It’s crucial to avoid an exaggerated or forced expression, as this can come across as inauthentic. The eyes, as they say, are the window to the soul—so make sure your expression is warm and engaging. Eye contact with the camera creates a sense of connection with the viewer.
LIGHTING: Lighting plays an essential role in shaping the mood and tone of your headshot. Natural light is often flattering, but studio lighting offers the most control. Soft, even lighting ensures that your face is the focal point and that there are no harsh shadows. Proper lighting helps to accentuate your facial features in a flattering way, making you appear more vibrant and engaged.
