How to Get a Great Professional Headshot as a Man

Start with the Right Shirt and Jacket

Think of your collar as the frame for your face. A poorly chosen one throws everything off. I once had a brilliant software architect show up in a casual polo; the soft, rolled neckline made his shoulders slump and his expertise vanish. We swapped it for a simple, crisp white dress shirt and his entire posture changed in ten seconds. The structure of a dress shirt collar—with stays—supports your jawline and communicates competence before you even speak.

Your safest bet is a solid, mid-to-dark tone. Navy, charcoal, or a deep burgundy work for almost everyone. Avoid pure black; it can be severe and lose detail. If you wear a jacket, ensure it fits perfectly across the shoulders. A jacket pulling at the button creates diagonal lines that lead the eye away from your face. Bring two options. One classic blazer, and one sweater or textured sport coat for a slightly more approachable look in a second set of shots.

Position Your Body for Authority

Standing straight at the camera is for passport photos. We want engagement, not a mugshot. Turn your body about 30 to 45 degrees away from the camera. Now, turn your head and eyes back towards the lens. This creates a strong, diagonal line across your torso that looks dynamic and confident. It narrows your profile slightly, which is universally flattering.

Here’s the critical move: lean forward from your hips, just an inch or two. I tell clients to imagine they’re leaning over a desk to hear someone better. This forward tilt projects engagement and energy. If you lean back, you look disinterested or even arrogant. Practice this in a mirror. Shoulders down, chin slightly forward, weight on your front foot. It feels odd but looks powerful.

Master the 'Almost' Smile

A full, toothy grin can seem out of place on a corporate profile. A flat, serious mouth reads as cold or unapproachable. The sweet spot is the "almost" smile. It’s not in the mouth; it’s in the eyes. Think of a genuine, warm thought—your dog, a good joke you heard earlier, the relief of finishing a big project. Let that feeling crinkle the corners of your eyes slightly.

Your lips should be together or just barely parted. A good trick is to say the word "money" or "Tuesday" softly; it puts your mouth in a neutral, pleasant position. I often count down from three. On two, I’ll say something like, “Think about your favorite breakfast.” The resulting expression is approachable, confident, and real. We’re not selling toothpaste; we’re selling your reliable judgment.

Avoid the Common Glare Trap

Glasses are a nightmare if we’re not careful. The reflection of a softbox or window can completely obscure your eyes, making you look like a mysterious—and untrustworthy—character from a spy film. The fix is simple but non-negotiable: ask your photographer to adjust the angle of the lights or your head. A slight tilt of your chin down or to the side usually solves it.

If you have transition lenses, get a cheap pair of empty frames from your optometrist for the shoot. Wearing tinted lenses indoors makes you look like you’re hiding. Also, clean your glasses meticulously with a microfiber cloth right before we start. Every smudge shows up under the studio lights and makes the final photo look amateurish. This one prep step saves us fifteen minutes of retouching later.

Choose the Right Shot for Your Goal

Not all headshots serve the same purpose. A tight crop from the collarbones up is the standard for LinkedIn, corporate bios, and speaking engagements. It’s direct and professional. But if you’re in a creative field, real estate, or consulting, consider a three-quarter shot that shows more of your torso and maybe even your hands. This conveys more personality and context.

When you review the proofs, don’t just pick the one where you think you look “handsome.” Ask: Does this look like the person you’d trust to handle a million-dollar deal, or guide you through a difficult legal process? Show the options to a brutally honest colleague. Often, the shot you feel slightly exposed in—the one where you’re leaning in with that “almost” smile—is the one that connects instantly with strangers. It has energy.

Your headshot is a handshake in a visual world. Getting it right isn't about vanity; it's about giving a true, confident first impression the moment someone lands on your profile. Focus on the fit of your collar, that subtle forward lean, and the warmth behind your eyes. Nail those three things, and you’ve built a foundation that works for years.