In our contemporary society, where technology is rapidly advancing, a business headshot has turned into more of a requirement than an option. Whether it is updating one’s LinkedIn account or getting ready for a virtual interview, the need for a crisp, clear headshot is undeniable because it gives weight to that individual’s brand. But there is a twist; not everyone has access to a professional camera. The positive part? You don’t need one.
Since most smartphones especially the iPhone are designed with advanced camera features, clicking a stunning headshot with your iPhone is not only achievable but also feasible. This guide is here to show you how to take a headshot with iPhone, breaking it down into simple but effective ways that will help you capture a professional-looking photo confidently and without any expensive professional equipment.
Table of Contents
9 Tips for Capturing the Perfect iPhone Headshots without Professional Equipment
1. Lighting is Everything
When it comes to your headshot, lighting is very crucial. If you are taking a picture using an iPhone or any cellphone, I would suggest you take advantage of the natural lighting. A soft light source such as a window, helps in providing the perfect complexion for the face that eliminates the need for makeup as well as erases any extreme complexion lines resulting from shadows. Headshot looking forward to the sunrise and sunset usually an hour after and before respectively, also referred to as the golden hour, offers a very stunning and flattering soft light.
Nonetheless, when indoors, and it is imperative to employ artificial light, refrain from using the ceiling light, as it is too harsh. Instead, try to position yourself towards a window or use lamps to achieve a more evenly lit effect when taking the photograph. PhotographyLife claimed that “lighting is the most important aspect that contributes to 90% of the quality of the headshot” (PhotographyLife, 2023). For this reason, always seek out the best possible lighting instead of using filters and edits to achieve a fake look.
2. Choose the Right Background
Your headshot should ideally have a minimalist unobtrusive background. A background that is busy or has excessive detail tends to draw attention away from the intended subject, which is the headshot. Neutral colours as background colours, for example white, beige and grey are perfect choices. When taking pictures outdoors, make sure that the background does not overshadow you — a plain wall and blurry natural background will do just fine.
The portrait mode of the iPhone designed for devices from iPhone 7 plus to newer versions will come in handy in this situation. As can be the case, it serves to blur the background of the image thereby adding the stylish ‘bokeh’ effect that ensures the subject in the image remains focused. In case you are thinking about how to take a headshot iPhone picture with a good background, this is the reason to use this feature.
3. Composition: Follow the Rule of Thirds
Another important component of headshot photography is the composition of the image itself. The rule of thirds is a popular photography technique that allows one to achieve favourable outcomes in image creation. To apply this rule, consider your screen as divided into a 3 by 3 matrix. Position the eyes on the uppermost horizontal line, not in the middle of the grid but slightly to the right. This particular composition technique allows the positioning of the face in a way that is not excessively centred or static.
In most iPhones, the camera settings provide a grid option which helps in aligning the face according to this rule. To turn on the grid, navigate to Settings > Camera > Grid and switch it on.
4. Use Portrait Mode for Professional Results
Apple's Portrait mode revolutionized smartphone photography, and it is a killer feature for headshots, as well. This mode focuses on your face, blurring the background to create a professional-like image in a deep depth of field, almost resembling that of a DSLR camera. It simulates the effect of the DSLR camera where the background is out-focused perfectly making it easy to distinguish one's face in a picture.
When taking pictures in portrait mode, it is recommended to maintain some distance from the background in order to better blur it. The iPhone provides an automatic cue regarding the recommended distance from the camera while taking the picture, but in most cases, it is best to stay between three to six feet from the camera.
5. Positioning: Find Your Best Angle
The position and angle of the iPhone impact the headshot significantly. Do not tilt the phone while too low or too high, holding the camera at normal eye level or slightly above usually works well as it avoids any distortion of facial features.
You can have a friend hold the iPhone for you or fix it on a tripod to keep it in one place. In case you are alone, the timer function of the camera is most helpful as it helps you to pose before the picture is clicked.
Different studies explain that the angles from which one poses influence how trustworthy or welcoming one looks in photographs. For example, the American Psychological Association states that people tend to look more attractive in photographs when the shot angle is slightly above their eye line, which is ideal for a business profile picture (APA, 2020).
6. Dress for the Occasion
Choosing your outfit is pivotal in determining the professionalism of the headshot. Wear solid colours as busy patterns tend to be distracting and less elegant. Navy, black or even dark grey shades usually do the trick. Do not wear clothes that are too informal even though a casual headshot is requested – some level of professionalism still needs to be put across.
In the case of women, little accessories and make-up help to achieve a great look on the headshot without taking over it. For men, the grooming should be tidy and they should also wear a collared shirt if they want to achieve smart casual.
7. Mind Your Expressions
The face you project in your profile photo tells much about you. Most professional environments tend to favour a polite yet relaxed smile. Never smile too exaggeratedly as it might be interpreted as fake, or even worse, as a masquerade. A tender smile that reaches the eye will make you look warm, honest and competent at the same time.
If you feel tense or awkward being photographed, take a few deep breaths and laugh for a bit in order to get rid of the stiffness before the shooting begins. This will help to ease the tension and rush the relaxed authentic disposition to the face.
8. Editing: Keep It Minimal
After you have snapped your picture, don’t be tempted to do heavy editing. Some simple modifications such as cropping or changing the exposure can be done quickly using the iPhone’s native video editing tools. However, excessive editing tends to render images fake which is the opposite of the professional look that a headshot entails. The photograph would only need a few minor tweaks, if at all.
For sensitive look changes like contrast and brightness, mobile editors like Lightroom Mobile or Snapseed help you enhance the image while ensuring you retain its natural beauty.
9. Take Multiple Shots
Do not stick with just a shot or two. It is advisable to click many pictures from different angles taking into consideration different lights and faces. Go through all of them and choose the one that most suits your professional image. More often than not, the ideal headshot is obtained by taking a shot in different setups and faces.
iPhone Headshots - 7 Common Mistakes to Avoid
Taking iPhone headshots without professional equipment can still yield great results if done thoughtfully. However, there are some common mistakes to avoid, especially for beginners. Here are 7 key mistakes to watch out for:
1. Poor Lighting
Good lighting is the most important element in a headshot. Avoid using harsh overhead lights or shooting in dimly lit environments. Natural light is often the best option, but make sure it’s soft and diffused.
Example: Taking a headshot under direct sunlight can cause harsh shadows on the face, making it look unnatural. Instead, try to position yourself near a window where the light is soft, or use a white sheet or curtain to diffuse the light.
2. Cluttered Background
A messy or busy background can distract from the subject of the headshot. Choose a simple, neutral background to keep the focus on your face.
Example: A busy bookshelf or cluttered room behind you will pull attention away from your face. Opt for a plain wall or an outdoor setting with a blurred background to create a professional look.
3. Not Framing the Shot Properly
Proper framing is key to a professional headshot. Make sure your face is centered and your shoulders are relaxed, with some space above your head. Avoid cutting off parts of your body, like your chin or top of your head.
Example: Taking a close-up shot that cuts off your chin or makes you look too “boxed in” can make the photo feel cramped. Ideally, leave some space around your face and upper body to keep the composition balanced.
4. Unflattering Angles
Shooting from an unflattering angle can distort your features. Avoid shooting from below or above your face, as these angles can make your chin appear larger or distort facial features.
Example: Shooting from below can create a “double chin” effect, while shooting from too high can make you look disproportionate. A simple eye-level shot with your face slightly tilted toward the camera is usually the most flattering.
5. Overusing Filters
While filters can be fun, they can also make your headshot look unprofessional if overdone. Avoid heavy filters that alter your natural appearance. A headshot should accurately represent you for professional purposes.
Example: Using a heavy Instagram-style filter that changes your skin tone or adds too much contrast can make your photo look less polished. Stick to minimal editing or only adjust brightness and contrast slightly for a clean, natural look.
6. Tense Posture or Forced Expression
A stiff posture or forced smile can make your headshot look unnatural. Relax your shoulders and smile naturally to convey a confident, approachable vibe.
Example: If you tense up and force a smile, you might look uncomfortable. Instead, try to relax and think of something pleasant to get a natural, approachable smile. A slight tilt of your head can also make the photo feel more relaxed and genuine.
7. Not Using the Right Lens or Settings
iPhones have great cameras, but choosing the right settings is important. Make sure you’re using portrait mode (or a similar option) for a shallow depth of field, which blurs the background and makes you stand out more.
Example: Using the regular camera without Portrait mode can result in a flat image, with the background and foreground both in focus, which doesn’t look as professional. Portrait mode on newer iPhones automatically blurs the background, creating a more polished effect.
Final Thoughts
A professional image or headshot is important in this digital age, and if mastered, it is possible to take a good picture using your iPhone. Paying attention to lighting, composition as well as angles, and you are guaranteed a quality headshot that is as good as any that would have been taken with a sophisticated camera. The other important thing is to avoid excessiveness and artificial looks. There are no tricks, and very soon you’ll learn how to take a headshot with an iPhone that stands out from the ordinary.
In a world where first impressions are often made online, your headshot is more important than ever. With your iPhone in hand, you have everything you need to capture a professional image that leaves a lasting impact.