A great professional headshot sets the tone for your personal brand—and often, your career. So why do so many of us rely on a cropped photo from a wedding or a headshot taken years ago (yes, the impulsive bangs era included)?

Make updating your professional headshot your 2026 New Year’s resolution. When you have a beautiful image that truly looks like you, something shifts: you show up with more confidence, clarity, and authenticity in your work. Of course, booking your session is only the first step. The real magic happens when you relax, feel comfortable, and let your true personality shine in front of the camera. To help you get there, I’m sharing my five best tips for a natural, genuine headshot session.

1. Choose clothing that reflects your personal brand and feels like you

The best outfit is the one you feel most confident and comfortable in. Choose pieces you already love wearing to work. Personality always wins over trends: a timeless outfit that avoids distracting patterns is best. Headshots are often used for 5-10 years (crazy, but true) so best to opt for something classic. Avoid super flashy jewelry or trendy accessories, as that might date your photo. 

If you prefer wearing glasses over contacts on a regular basis, don’t hesitate to wear them to your session! I make sure to shoot and  edit to avoid a glare and you want to look the most like yourself.

2. Get a good night’s sleep,  eat a normal breakfast and hydrate before your session

I know what you’re thinking, “duh Monica!”, but trust me, it makes a HUGE difference. Relaxed shoulders and facial expression along with hydrated skin can contribute to that effortless, healthy glow. A good breakfast will keep you focused and energized, two major boosts when posing and smiling for an hour. Think of your session as an investment and treat yourself accordingly the day before.

Underrated tip: be sure to floss your teeth, especially if your shoot is after lunch! I will edit out food in Photoshop, but always best to floss ahead of your session

3. Trust your headshot photographer’s expertise (ME!)

You don’t need to know your angles or how to pose, that’s my job! I’ll guide you through flattering positions, subtle movements, and natural expressions so nothing feels stiff or forced. The more you let go, the more authentic your images will feel. Sometimes the ways in which I ask you to pose can feel strange or unnatural, but you just have to trust that I’m guiding you towards the most genuine photos! 

It can be hard not to feel nervous or stressed before a shoot, but try your best to fight those feelings. My number one priority is always to make you feel comfortable the second you’re in front of my camera. You aren’t supposed to be an expert in this stuff, that’s why I am here!

4. Focus on connection, not perfection

The most compelling headshots aren’t about perfect posture or a frozen smile — they’re about presence. Take a breath, think about what excites you about  your work and what you bring to the table every day you show up. Allow that energy to come through! A genuine expression will always outshine a “polished” one.

I often get the question, should I smile with teeth or without? We’ll capture a mix of both, but if you’re comfortable with it, I always suggest with teeth.  A friendly and full smile goes such a long way in brightening and energizing your photos. 

5. Remember the purpose behind your professional headshots

This photo represents the current, truest version of you — the one building, growing, and showing up professionally right now. When you keep that in mind, confidence follows naturally. Your headshot is often your first professional point of connection. Make sure it feels honest, current, and aligned with where you’re headed next. 

Here’s to starting 2026 with a true investment in yourself and your work.