Did you know that you have seven seconds to make a good first impression? When our first impressions are often digital, this means that your online presence needs to wow your potential connections.

One way to make a good first impression is by uploading professional business headshots. A good portrait makes a big difference.

But why spend the money on a pro? Let's talk about it. Read on to learn all about the importance of having high-quality headshots (and why you should go to a professional photographer).

Giving Your Business an Identity

New business owners fail to realize the importance of a brand identity. Even if your business is common, the identity surrounding your business will make a huge difference when you're trying to attract clients.

There are several ways to start building a brand identity, but one great one is to include professional corporate headshots on your website and social media. 

You're putting faces to your business and crafting a more personable culture around it.

A good brand identity is memorable. It's part of your overall branding and marketing strategy, and it's something that you can use in all of your marketing materials from social media pages to business cards. 

Putting Potential Clients at Ease

As we mentioned, adding professional portraits to your branding materials will make your business seem more personable. This is something that can put your clients and customers at ease. 

People love to be able to put faces to names. They also like being able to know what to expect when they visit a business for the first time.

When they see professional business headshots of you and your employees, they'll see your business as more approachable. When they recognize you upon their first visits, they may even feel more comfortable because, in a way, they already know you. 

Showing That You Value Your Employees

If you're an employer, you want to keep your employees feeling happy. At a time when employees have their pick of available and well-paying jobs, you need to create as many incentives as possible to keep them around.

There are various ways to show appreciation for your team and making the time for professional headshots is one of them.

Employees need headshots just as much as you do (sometimes even for personal use). There's also something special about being able to participate in a professional photoshoot. 

A Good First Impression on Social Media

Whether you're an employer or an employee, professional headshots are great for social media. They provide the perfect first impression for potential clients and employers. 

As we mentioned, research suggests that you have about seven seconds to make a first impression. While this often refers to meeting potential connections "in real life," in the digital age, it also refers to online impressions. 

People will see your professional headshots and make snap judgments about you or your business. If you're using a selfie or an image of something aside from yourself, this may leave a bad first impression. 

Many people think that social media doesn't matter when it comes to business, but this isn't true. If you're an employer, clients will scan your social media when they're deciding whether or not to work with you.

If you're a job seeker or business professional, potential employers will look at your LinkedIn profile as well as your personal social media pages. You'd be surprised at how many employers actually Google their potential employees before even responding to applications. 

More Employment and Advancement Opportunities

Speaking of making a good impression, as an employee or job seeker, you want to make yourself as appealing as possible. A professional business portrait will help. 

Even if it's subconscious, employers will respond more favorably to professional photos of employees who look friendly and approachable. If you're on the hunt for a new position, it's best to have professional headshots on your side.

Why Visiting a Professional Photographer Matters

So why not just take photos yourself, or have a friend do it? Modern smartphones have great cameras and you're capable of dressing nicely for your photos on your own, right?

For most people, hiring a professional is the best choice. Here are a few reasons why.

A Professional Studio Background

Depending on the career that you're looking for (or the field that you're already in), it's likely that you're going to want a neutral, but professional, backdrop for your photos.

Some people can get away with portraits in front of natural backgrounds, cityscapes, or even in their own office, but this isn't the case for everyone. 

Headshot photographers have different color backgrounds in their photography studio that you can use to set your portrait apart.  

High-Quality Photography and Editing Equipment

High-quality cameras aren't easily accessible to most people. You'll also need a tripod, a remote (if you plan on taking your own photos), and editing programs to perfect your photos and create an amazing headshot.

Professional photographers have access to all of these things already. You don't have to waste time and money gathering tools for your photos (and trust us, high-quality photography gear will cost more than a professional headshot). 

Plenty of Experience Behind the Camera

Professional photographers offer great customer service to their clients because they have plenty of experience behind the camera. They know how to put their subjects (that's you!) at ease.

They can help you find your best angles. They know how to capture you authentically while still making you look professional. 

It's Time to Get Professional Business Headshots

You and your employees deserve professional business headshots. You'll make a great first impression, you'll make your brand seem more personable, and you'll put potential connections at ease.

A professional photographer will show off your best side. 

If you need a professional photographer in San Francisco, look no further than 415Headshots. We love to capture high-quality images that don't just show professionalism, but also personality.

Contact us to schedule a session today.

Our headshot photography studio will be happy to assist with any questions regarding on-site photo sessions, wardrobe, and/or location suggestions.