Today I’m thinking about…headshots. Why have one? What makes a good headshot? And why are there so many bad ones?
For a moment, imagine you are in need of mental health services. An internet search pulls up a multitude of possibilities. All unknown people. All with the same degrees, certifications and levels of experience. How do you choose?
The thought of sharing your innermost thoughts with a complete stranger is scary enough. Seeing a picture can help you feel like you know the therapist, just a little. You can get a sense of who they are by looking at their face.
Are they kind, compassionate? Will they have a sense of humor? Are they “normal people”? All of this can be transmitted by a photo.
This is why headshots are important.
What makes a good headshot
- Be professional. A good headshot is professional, yet natural. Hiring a professional photographer is a great idea, but steer clear of shots that make you look overly serious or intimidating. For example, wearing a suit and crossing your arms can convey the message that you are not to be trifled with. Not exactly a quality someone would seek in a counselor.
- Avoid glamour shots. I know this was a thing of the ’80s, but I still see pictures on the internet that remind me of glamour shots. Avoid too much makeup, overly styled hair, too much jewelry and flashy clothing.
- Smile. Seriously. I can’t tell you how many headshot I have seen of counselors that either look like they are constipated or in pain. Would you want to visit a counselor that looks miserable?
- Avoid selfies. If you can take a professional looking selfie, then fine. But I’ve seen too many with the telltale arm sticking straight out, or with bad lighting.
- Avoid cropped photos. I don’t care how good you looked in that family photo, for the sake of your professional image take your own. Nothing worse than seeing someone else’s arm or hand in your headshot.
If you are unsure about your headshot, get a second opinion. Show it to family and friends and see what they think. Post it to some therapist Facebook groups such as Abundant Practice Builders or The Private Practice Startup.
Yours in the Joy of Knowledge,
Dr. Barb LoFrisco
