One Session, Many Looks: Get More From Your Headshot Shoot

A headshot session doesn’t have to be a one-look, one-purpose experience. In fact, with proper planning, guidance, and the right photographer, one shoot can give you a library of images for everything—from LinkedIn to casting calls to personal branding.

Whether you're a corporate professional, actor, entrepreneur, or creative, your image is your currency. So why settle for just one look when a single session can provide the visual versatility you need across different platforms?

In this guide, we’ll explore how to maximize your headshot shoot with multiple looks and styles, the importance of wardrobe changes, lighting variations, and what to expect when working with a professional headshots photographer in New York City.

Why Multiple Looks Matter

Your headshot tells a story—of who you are, what you do, and how you present yourself to the world. But you’re not just one thing. You might be a lawyer by day and a podcast host by night, or an actor who needs both commercial and theatrical shots. Multiple looks allow you to speak to each facet of your identity.

Here’s why multiple looks are valuable:

• Professional branding: Use a formal look for your company website and a relaxed one for networking or conferences.

• Casting range: For actors, different outfits and expressions highlight your range for commercial, theatrical, and character roles.

• Social platforms: Your LinkedIn photo may differ from your Instagram profile, where a more casual or creative image is suitable.

• Business materials: Use various shots for bios, press kits, proposals, speaking engagements, or book covers.

A versatile set of headshots helps you stay consistent while tailoring your image to specific audiences.

Planning for Variety: Things Every Headshot Photographer Should Know

Before stepping into the studio, having a clear plan for your session makes all the difference. Communicate with your photographer about your goals. Are you looking for actors headshots, a LinkedIn headshot, or a mix of both?

Here are a few tips to ensure a diverse outcome:

1. Wardrobe Variety

Bring 4–6 outfit options. Think layers, textures, and colors that complement your skin tone. Include both formal and casual looks—like a blazer for business and a t-shirt or sweater for something more relaxed. Neutral colors often work best, but a pop of color can also add personality.

2. Hairstyle and Grooming Adjustments

Small changes in hair—such as pulling it back or letting it down—can make a huge difference in your final photos. Touch-ups with makeup, facial hair grooming, or simple restyling between looks add polish and variety.

3. Expression and Energy

A warm smile may be perfect for your LinkedIn profile, but a serious or intense expression might better suit a dramatic acting role. Think of each look as a different character or version of yourself.

4. Background and Lighting

Professional photographers often shift backgrounds or lighting setups to give a completely different feel. From bright and clean for corporate use to moody and artistic for actors or creatives, lighting plays a key role in crafting diverse portraits.

A great professional headshots photographer in New York City will guide you through all these variables, so you come away with a rich variety of images in one efficient session.

LinkedIn, Acting, and More: One Session, Many Purposes

LinkedIn Headshot Photographer Needs

LinkedIn is where first impressions often begin. Your photo should feel confident, approachable, and polished. That doesn’t mean stiff—it just means professional. A LinkedIn headshot photographer understands how to highlight your strengths with posture, lighting, and clean backgrounds that align with your industry.

For a business-focused look:

• Use minimalistic backgrounds (grays, whites, blurred office settings).

• Dress professionally—blazers, collared shirts, or business dresses.

• Keep expressions calm, confident, and open.

Actors Headshots for Range and Casting

When it comes to actors' headshots, versatility is even more important. Your images should reflect a wide casting range. That might mean:

• A friendly smile in one image for a commercial audition.

• A serious expression and darker wardrobe for a dramatic role.

• Hair styled differently across images to show adaptability.

Make sure to label each file when delivering headshots to agents or casting directors so they know which is which.

Portraits in Photography: A Closer Look

Portraits in photography go beyond just head and shoulders. They’re about presence, personality, and storytelling. A skilled photographer will use lighting, angles, and expression to draw out different aspects of who you are.

Let’s break down how this applies in a multi-look session:

• Close-crop portraits create intimacy and are great for profile photos.

• Three-quarter shots provide a broader view of posture, clothing, and mood—ideal for press kits or creative bios.

• Environmental portraits place you in a context—like a studio, cafe, or city street—giving editorial or lifestyle vibes.

Using different crops and compositions is another way to get more from your shoot. Each format speaks to a different audience and purpose.

Film vs. Digital Photography in Headshots

This is a question many clients don’t think to ask—but it matters: Should your headshots be shot on film or digital?

Film vs. Digital Photography each offers unique aesthetic benefits:

Digital Photography:

• Instant feedback on images

• Easier retouching and faster delivery

• High resolution for cropping

• Perfect for corporate or web use

Film Photography:

• Rich tones and textures

• A more organic, timeless look

• Less retouching gives a raw and authentic finish

• Ideal for creatives, actors, and editorial use

Some photographers offer hybrid sessions or film add-ons. If you're a visual storyteller, having both styles in your portfolio adds serious depth.

A Real Example: What a Multi-Look Session Looks Like

Let’s say you book a 90-minute session with a professional headshots photographer in New York City. Here’s how it could unfold:

1. Look 1 – Corporate LinkedIn
   Wardrobe: Navy blazer, button-down shirt
   Lighting: Bright, natural
   Backdrop: Soft gray
   Expression: Confident smile
   Use: LinkedIn, company website
   
   

2. Look 2 – Business Casual
   Wardrobe: Sweater or dress shirt, no jacket
   Lighting: Warm and directional
   Backdrop: Lifestyle office setting
   Expression: Relaxed, approachable
   Use: Speaking engagements, email signature
   
   

3. Look 3 – Actor Commercial
   Wardrobe: Solid tee, minimal makeup
   Lighting: Even and flat
   Backdrop: White seamless
   Expression: Friendly and bright
   Use: Commercial casting submission
   
   

4. Look 4 – Actor Theatrical
   Wardrobe: Dark shirt or jacket
   Lighting: Moody and contrasty
   Backdrop: Charcoal gray
   Expression: Neutral or intense
   Use: Drama or film auditions
   
   

5. Look 5 – Personal Brand
   Wardrobe: Your favorite look
   Lighting: Creative—maybe backlighting or rim light
   Backdrop: Cityscape or outdoor
   Expression: Natural and candid
   Use: Instagram, portfolio, press

By the end, you’ll walk away with a complete toolkit of images that speak to the different sides of your personal and professional life.

Tips for Getting the Most From Your Headshot Session

If you want to leave with multiple usable headshots in one session, keep these tips in mind:

• Prepare outfits ahead of time and bring accessories to switch up looks.

• Stay hydrated and rested so your eyes look bright and your energy stays high.

• Trust your photographer—they know how to guide you.

• Ask for variety in expressions—don’t be afraid to show emotion or personality.

• Plan how you'll use the images so you can prioritize which looks to capture.

Choosing the Right Photographer

Look for someone who:

• Specializes in the type of headshots you need

• Has a strong portfolio with varied looks

• Offers guidance on wardrobe and posing

• Understands both corporate and creative needs
  
  

The best professional headshots photographer in New York City will help you feel comfortable, seen, and confident throughout the process. They’ll know how to adjust on the fly and deliver images that exceed your expectations.

Final Thoughts: One Session, Many Results

A headshot session isn’t just about checking off a to-do list—it’s an investment in your image, career, and future. Don’t settle for a single expression, outfit, or background. With smart planning and a trusted photographer, you can walk away with headshots that meet every need you have today—and a few you haven’t thought of yet.

So the next time you book a session, think beyond the standard one-look shoot. Go in with intention, variety, and a bit of creativity—and you’ll leave with a powerful set of portraits that truly represent all the dimensions of who you are.