Top Tips For Great Author Headshots

Photographer Tom Pepperdine will be at this year’s Fantasycon in Chester offering headshots to attendees. Here, he gives his top tips for getting your photo taken – and in plenty of time for you to look your best in front of the camera!

Do try to relax

I know it’s easier said than done, but it’s not like a school photo where you only have one or two attempts at posing. We’ll take our time and work together to see which poses feel natural and look the best. 

Don’t diet ahead of a photoshoot

You’re more likely to look tired than thinner. Eat healthily and if you’re concerned about nutrition then it’s better to take vitamins or supplements in the days before the shoot.

Do try and exercise in the time leading up to the shoot

Not only does exercise release endorphins, it also gives you a lovely healthy glow. However, try not to do anything too strenuous within two hours of the shoot.  There’s healthy glow and then there’s sweaty mess.

Don’t wear clothes you’ve not worn before

There’s no guarantee you’ll look better. An old favourite top is much better than a brand new top. You’ll feel more relaxed and comfortable and that will show in the final result. However, be honest with yourself about what fits and what doesn’t. You may own an expensive outfit, but if it’s been at the back of the wardrobe for years then it’s probably with good reason. Wear something that you’d be happy wearing around your friends. Avoid anything with logos or brands if possible, the photo is to promote you and not them.

Do style your hair

Haircuts a week or two before a shoot can really help with confidence. You’ll want some time for the haircut to grow in, so it looks more natural than clinical. Do a style you’ve done before and is fairly easy to maintain on the day of the shoot.

Don’t use new make up or fake tan before the shoot

There’s too many horror stories about bad skin reactions already, we don’t need another one. Make up should be simple and natural looking. You may have an extravagant make up style you’re using this year, but how will it look in your marketing material in five to ten years? Less is more.

Do drink plenty of water

It’s good advice for life, but especially for photoshoots. It helps the skin glow and you’ll feel better in yourself.

(Photo by Marissa Lewis on Unsplash)

Don’t be drunk or hungover

You’re likely to be spending more money on the photoshoot than you will on drinks, even at hotel prices, so don’t spoil your investment.

Do some research

Look at your favourite photos of yourself, favourite photos of your favourite authors, and favourite photos taken by the photographer. Can you see poses, lighting and expressions that you think work well? It’s absolutely fine to just turn up with the attitude, “I need a digital replica of my face,” but if you arrive with a few photos on your phone and say, “Can we try and create shots like these?” Then it can really help with the flow of the shoot and manage the expectations of both you and the photographer.

Don’t be scared of the camera

It is not a judge deciding your fate. It’s like a kitten or a clumsy puppy and should be viewed as such. Occasionally it’s a quokka, but it always wants to be your friend and view you in the best light.

Do have fun

Getting a professional photograph is a ridiculous endeavour and should be treated as such. 

Find out about Tom’s special Fantasycon photos package over in this blog, or go directly to his calendar to book your slot (and peeps at his pic of a well-known BFS member and author!)