Most people would rather go to the dentist than stand in front of a camera. I get it. Unless you are a professional model, knowing what to do with your hands, your chin, and your shoulders does not come naturally. You freeze up. You smile that “school picture day” smile. And the result? You look stiff, uncomfortable, and unlike your true self.
But here is the secret: A great headshot isn’t about you knowing how to model; it’s about your photographer knowing how to direct. As a professional headshot photographer, my job is to guide you through the awkwardness until we find the angle that communicates confidence and approachability.
However, going into your session with a few tricks up your sleeve can help calm your nerves. If you want to nail your corporate headshots, here are four tips on posing that will transform your results.
How Does Posture Affect Your Professional Image?
The camera adds ten pounds, right? Actually, bad posture adds ten pounds. Good posture takes them away. The most common mistake people make is slouching or leaning backward away from the lens. This creates a double chin and makes you look unengaged.
The fix? Lean in.
It sounds simple, but leaning slightly toward the camera (from the waist, not just the neck) instantly engages the viewer. It simulates the body language of a handshake or an intense conversation. It shows you are interested and listening. If you are unsure if the investment in a pro session is worth it just to get this coaching, read about are professional business headshots worth it. The difference in body language alone is a game-changer.
What Should I Do With My Chin and Jawline?
We all want a defined jawline. The problem is that when we stand naturally, our necks tend to settle back, creating extra skin under the chin. To fix this, I use a technique that feels completely ridiculous but looks amazing on camera.
The “Turtle” Move.
You push your forehead forward toward the camera and then tip your chin down slightly. In real life, you might feel like a turtle poking its head out of a shell. But to the camera—which sees in 2D, not 3D—this stretches the skin of the neck and creates a sharp, strong jawline. It defines the face and separates your head from your shoulders.
Trust the process. If the pose feels weird, it usually looks great. If it feels “comfortable,” you probably look slouchy. This technical nuance is exactly what makes a great corporate headshot stand out from a selfie.
Should I Face the Camera Squarely?
Unless you are taking a mugshot, standing square to the camera is rarely flattering. It makes your shoulders look their widest and can make you look blocky or aggressive.
Instead, angle your body.
Turn one shoulder slightly toward the camera. This slims the profile and adds dynamism to the shot. For men, this can create a V-taper look. For women, it accentuates the waist and creates curves. Once your body is angled, turn your face back toward the lens. This twist creates energy in the photo. If you are struggling with wardrobe choices that complement these angles, check out my guide on what should a woman wear for a professional headshot.
What Do I Do With My Eyes?
You can have the perfect pose, but if your eyes are wide and panicked, the shot is ruined. The “deer in the headlights” look is the enemy of a professional photo for linkedin.
To look confident, try “The Squinch.”
This isn’t a squint (which makes you look like you forgot your glasses). It’s a subtle narrowing of the lower eyelids. It mimics the expression we make when we are focused or suspicious. Wide eyes convey fear; slightly narrowed eyes convey confidence and competence. Combine this with a genuine smile, and you have a winner.
Of course, avoiding things that distract from your eyes is also key. This includes wearing the wrong colors or busy patterns. Make sure you know what is the best color to wear for professional headshots so your eyes remain the focal point.
Is There a Cost to Looking “Cheap”?
Many people try to save money by having a friend take their photo or, worse, using a selfie. They don’t realize that bad posing (slouching, double chins, awkward arms) signals a lack of professionalism.
When you look at the cost of a professional headshot, you have to weigh it against the business you lose by looking like an amateur. A pro photographer doesn’t just take the picture; they are your director. They tell you to “drop your left shoulder” or “chin forward an inch” so you don’t have to guess. If you are curious about pricing in the LA market, you can see a breakdown of how much professional headshots in LA run. It is a small price to pay for an image that commands respect.
Ready to Step In Front of the Lens?
Posing doesn’t have to be painful. With the right photographer coaching you, it can actually be fun. The result is a set of corporate headshots that make you look capable, trustworthy, and ready for business. Don’t settle for “good enough.” Your career deserves better.
Frequently Asked Questions About Posing
What should I do with my hands in a headshot?
If the shot is a tight head-and-shoulders crop, your hands won’t show. If it’s a wider shot, you can put hands in your pockets (thumbs out) for a casual look, or cross your arms loosely for a more authoritative stance. The key is to keep them relaxed, not clenched.
How do I stop smiling so awkwardly?
Fake smiles look fake because they don’t reach the eyes. I often ask clients to laugh or think of something genuinely funny. A real smile engages the entire face. Also, try smiling with your eyes first (“smizing”) before moving your mouth.
Which side of my face is my “good side”?
Everyone has a side they prefer, usually because of how their hair parts or slight facial asymmetry. A professional photographer will shoot you from both sides and various angles to determine which one is truly the most flattering for lighting and composition.
Does body language really matter for LinkedIn?
Absolutely. Your photo is often the first impression a recruiter or client gets. Open, confident body language (leaning in, strong eye contact) signals that you are approachable and trustworthy. Closed or stiff body language can signal insecurity.
How can I hide a double chin in photos?
The “turtle” technique mentioned above is the best fix. Push your forehead forward toward the camera and tip your chin down slightly. It feels unnatural, but it tightens the skin on the neck and creates a defined jawline.
Should I practice posing in the mirror?
It can help to get comfortable with your facial expressions, but don’t over-rehearse. If you practice too much, you might get stuck in a stiff “posed” look. Trust your photographer to direct you in the moment.
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