Small Posing Changes That Make a Big Difference in Your Headshot
Ever taken a picture and thought, “Why do I look like that?” Sometimes a small change in your head position or expression can make a bigger difference than you expect.
Take a look at this before and after. The most noticeable changes are in the jawline, the angle of the head, and the expression. These are details I help you work through during your session at Inland Headshots. You don’t have to show up knowing how to pose.
Ready for an updated headshot? Book your session here.
Bring Your Face Forward a Little
Look at the jawline in both photos. In the before image, the chin sits closer to the neck, making the outline of the jaw less defined. In the after image, there’s more visible separation between the jaw and neck.
Gently bringing your face forward can help create that definition. It might feel a little strange, but a small movement can make a noticeable difference on camera.
During your session, I’ll guide you through it so you don’t have to guess how far to move.
Adjust Your Chin
Bringing your face forward works together with adjusting your chin. In the after photo, the head appears slightly lowered, which changes how the face comes across.
The key is finding the right amount. Lowering your chin too much or lifting it too high can give you a different result than you want. We’ll make small adjustments and find a position that works for you.
Pay Attention to the Eyes
Your eyes play a big part in your expression. In the before photo, they look more relaxed and open. In the after photo, they’re slightly narrowed, giving the expression a more focused look.
This doesn’t mean squeezing your eyes shut or forcing a serious face. It’s a subtle adjustment that we can try while keeping your expression comfortable.
If you’re unsure what to do in front of the camera, I’ll help you through it. Schedule your headshot session here.
You Don’t Need a Huge Smile
The after photo has a subtle smile that works well with the eyes and head position. It gives the image a more engaged feel without needing a big grin.
A professional headshot can work with a small smile, a bigger smile, or a more neutral expression. We’ll try a few options so you can choose what feels right for you and how you plan to use the photo.
Small Changes Work Together
There isn’t a dramatic body turn between these two photos. Both are facing toward the camera, but the adjustments to the jawline, chin, eyes, and mouth add up.
That’s why posing involves more than deciding where to stand. Sometimes we’re making changes small enough that you might barely notice doing them, but you can see the difference when the photos are next to each other.
You Don’t Have to Know How to Pose
Being told to “look natural” doesn’t help much when you’re wondering what to do with your face.
My job is to give you clear direction and help you feel comfortable as we go. We’ll adjust your positioning, try different expressions, and take a moment to reset when needed.
This before and after shows what those small adjustments can do. A clearer jawline, a slight change in head position, and a more engaged expression come together to create a stronger headshot that still looks like you.
Need a new headshot for LinkedIn, your website, or work? Book your session with Inland Headshots.