Paring Photography With The Copy — Context Is Key
Most people show up to their headshot session having never really thought about what kind of expression they auth to capture. So it’s only natural to step into the lights, face the camera, and go for a nice big smile.
After all, for as long as we can remember, the act of pulling out a camera is always followed with the prompt - say cheeeeese.
But for the high level thinkers that find themselves needing great headshots, it can be almost alarming how blatantly wrong a big stale smile may be when you consider context.
Acutely a you might be contradicting your written message in a social media article, and more generally, a plain smile might just misrepresent your business in general. Even if you are the nicest person to work with, it might be other facets of your personality that make you so valuable to others.
Here are ten examples of headshots working well with popular captions, while suiting the personality of the professional accurately.
1. Award Winning Practice
There was a phrase I heard in sports growing up that was directed to winners - “act like you’ve been there before”. I liked it because it implies a respect for the game, and the opponent. This expression offers that same sentiment - pride in a way that doesn’t over-celebrate.
2. Top 100 In Illinois 2023
This is an amazing accomplishment, so a little attitude in the eyes plays well.
3. Fighting For You
Anything less than a game face will defeat the purpose of using such strong copy.
4. Managing Partner & CEO
Distinguished, poised, powerful and natural. Looking at this, the words “let’s talk business” come to mind.
5. Welcome to the Team
Bright lighting and genuine teeth smiles offer great positive energy that says she is happy to be working for this company, while the company shows they are proud and happy to have her.
6. Schedule A Consultation
This common call-to-action requires an expression that looks relaxed and inviting. It would be a mistake to pair this call to action with something like #3, but could also work well with #4. To say one is the “best” choice (surprise surprise) requires more context. If the CTA is for a law firm website, #4 might not work so well, but if it was a dentist office, #4 is better than this example.
7. What Clients Are Saying
Like #1, a teeth smile is tempting, but it feels more professional to keep it reserved.
8. Let’s Connect
Social media is all about personality, so this is a great time to show something candid.
9. Serving Clients In Over 50 Countries
This expression strikes the right balance: confident, polished, and universally approachable. A full, genuine smile reads as friendly across most cultures, especially in global-facing roles. The dark background and sleek wardrobe choice subtly reinforce the level of professionalism and poise expected from someone representing the company across international markets.
10. $20 Billion In Settlements
This image pairs composure with quiet confidence — a fitting match for a milestone of this scale. No flash, no fluff, just a clear, assured presence that says the work speaks for itself.
None of these examples should be too shocking, and that’s the point. The words you read and the face you see resemble how you would expect someone to look while saying those words.
When the words and images do NOT align, that is when you might notice something off.
Devoted To Justice
As you certainly know by now, the copy is calling for a much more serious tone.
Effective use of imagery takes advantage of human psychology. The eyes can only focus on one thing at a time, so if your image and copy aren’t aligned, your message loses impact.
While individuals might not overtly think “this person seems like they will fight for me because the headshot has a dark background, no teeth, etc..”, but the brain will pick up on the energy and either trust it or not.
To discuss how different visuals can reinforce your message, feel free to call or email the studio to set up a consultation.
