Best Poses for Headshots: Photographer-Approved Tips to Look Natural
In this blog, we’ll dive into the best poses for headshots that feel natural, confident, and professional—so you can walk into your session feeling fully prepared.
Best For: Business headshots, LinkedIn profiles, corporate branding.
This is the go-to pose for a reason. Facing the camera straight on with a relaxed, closed-mouth smile exudes confidence and professionalism. Make sure your shoulders are back, your chin is slightly down, and your posture is upright but not stiff. Greg Mulvey, a seasoned headshot photographer in Naperville, ensures proper posture while making clients feel comfortable during the shoot.
2. The Slight Angle Pose
Best For: Personal branding, creative industries, authors, and speakers.
Turning your body about 10–20 degrees to the side while keeping your face toward the camera creates a more relaxed, approachable vibe. It gives the image some dimension and helps slim the body visually. This pose is especially useful for people who want to soften their appearance without losing authority.
Photographer Tip: Greg often directs clients gently to adjust their shoulder and chin angle to find their most flattering side, especially during on-location shoots in Naperville and surrounding cities.
3. The Over-the-Shoulder Look
Best For: Actors, models, lifestyle brands.
This playful yet confident pose adds personality. Turn your back slightly to the camera and look back over your shoulder. It’s less formal and works well for portfolios or creative professions.
Pro Tip: Avoid straining your neck. Keep the motion light and natural.
4. The Seated Confidence Pose
Best For: Entrepreneurs, coaches, consultants.
Sitting in a chair slightly turned with one elbow resting on the knee or armrest gives you a grounded and strong presence. Keep your spine straight, shoulders relaxed, and avoid crossing arms directly over the chest (as it can appear closed-off). This pose adds an element of storytelling to your photo.
Did You Know? Many clients visiting Greg’s Naperville studio opt for seated shots to feel more relaxed during the session.
5. The Laughing or Mid-Smile Pose
Best For: Lifestyle headshots, personal branding, team bios.
Capturing a mid-laugh or spontaneous smile creates warmth and approachability. These are usually taken between more posed shots, but often end up being client favorites. They work well when you’re promoting a service-oriented business or personal brand.
Greg Mulvey specializes in getting these “in-between” moments—those genuine expressions that reflect who you really are.
6. Hands-In-Frame Shots
Best For: Artists, creators, speakers, business owners.
Including your hands (crossed arms, one hand gently under chin, or holding an object like glasses) adds a narrative element to your headshot. It makes the photo feel candid and editorial.
Bonus Tips for Natural-Looking Headshots
- Relax your jaw and tongue: Let your tongue rest on the roof of your mouth to define your jawline.
- Don’t force a smile: Think of something that genuinely makes you happy.
- Blink-reset: Close your eyes for a second and open them gently before the shot to avoid stiffness.
- Dress simply: Solid colors, minimal patterns, and avoid pure white unless layered.
- Work with a pro: An experienced headshot photographer like Greg Mulvey knows how to direct your poses and keep the session stress-free.
Why Choose a Headshot Photographer in Naperville Like Greg Mulvey?
Greg Mulvey is not just a photographer; he’s a visual storyteller with an eye for authenticity. Whether you’re in Naperville, Downers Grove, Wheaton, or nearby cities like Hinsdale or Glen Ellyn, Greg brings out the best in every subject with natural light, expert posing guidance, and a calm approach.
From family portraits to executive headshots, Greg ensures each image tells a story—your story.
Final Thoughts
Posing doesn’t have to feel awkward. With a little preparation and the right guidance, you can look and feel like the best version of yourself in front of the camera. Whether you’re updating your professional image or building your personal brand, a professional headshot is an investment worth making.
Looking for a trusted headshot photographer in Naperville? Contact Greg Mulvey Photography today and let’s capture your most authentic self.