Recently, The Shop at the CAC New Orleans team decided to organize our own Picture Day so that members could easily take 15 minutes out of their work day to do their professional headshots in the actual place that they work. Brilliant, right!? Luckily, our members Lacy and Kari with Davillier Photography were there to make the process even more seamless. Some people may think that with the ease of high definition camera phones, Apple Watch Features and selfie sticks, going to a professional just isn’t necessary. Which, to be honest, is a lot like trying to cut your own bangs. It’s not worth the risk! Sure, it might turn out fine, but you could also end up looking a bit ridiculous.

Studies show that people will deduce all kind of things about you within the first 7 seconds of seeing you. So yes – it really is that important! In the end, what’s a few hundred dollars if it’s going to make or break who knows how many potential opportunities for you. Here are the top 5 reasons we think professional headshots are well worth an investment:

The Importance Of A Professional Headshot

Whether you’re a lawyer, doctor, author, real estate agent, blogger, creative, hair stylist, or other working professional, it’s never been more important to have images of yourself that allow you to stand out.

In a largely digital age, professional headshots help to elevate your personal brand both online for site and social media profiles, and for traditional marketing purposes, such as printed marketing materials, publications, or business signage.

Here are the top five reasons professional headshots are an important and powerful marketing tool:

1. RECOGNITION

   If you are a business owner, you are likely the face of your business and brand. It’s crucial for your current and potential customers to be able to recognize you in a professional and approachable way regardless of the industry you’re in.

2. PROFESSIONALISM

   In this social media era, it has become increasingly more challenging to separate your personal and professional life. Potential employers and customers alike can search for you online – what will they find? They’re looking at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Linkedin and any other account you’ve created that’s searchable. Showing up on social media with a professional image helps to create a familiar and consistent visual reference.

3. DISTINCTION

   In a sea of selfies, a professional headshot helps you to stand out on social media. A professional business portrait will also help your audience, employer, or potential customers understand your personality to shed some light on who they will be working with, ultimately creating a sense of trust and familiarity.

4. CONFIDENCE

   Knowing that you’ve invested in a professional headshot will make you feel more confident in sharing content online as you know that your profile image is a strong and professional representation of you.

5. PREPARATION

   You never know when you’ll need a professional headshot. If you’re working toward a job promotion, asked to speak at an event, starting a new job, or your company is updating their website, having a professional image at the ready will help you avoid sharing a smartphone image you would prefer the world didn’t see.

For a couple of excellent examples, head over to the team pages for Shop members, The Idea Village and G.O.A.T.

All photography is by Davillier, you can contact them to get yours!