It may surprise you to learn that some of the Best Executive Headshots were captured by today’s smartphones. Of course, there are some things that you can do to ensure that you capture a professional image.

Master Your Technology

You’ll want to make sure your smartphone is set to HDR (High Dynamic Range a.k.a. “Rich tone”) so that you get great images that really pop. This is a feature that can be turned on in your camera setting. Otherwise, you’ll need to get an app.

Turn Off Auto Zoom

When you use the zoom feature you’ll capture a lower resolution photo. This is why you should use the portrait setting instead. If your smartphone doesn’t have this option try having the photographer move closer to you.

Choose the Right Location

You’ll want to choose a simple background that doesn’t have something that appears to be sticking out of your head. You also don’t want any cars or people in your photograph. Instead, opt for a solid-colored backdrop or one that only has simple textures.

Choose the Right Lighting

The ideal lighting will be outdoors in nature with the sun positioned behind you so you’re not squinting and don’t have any shadows on your face. You don’t want office lighting because fluorescent bulbs are known to create a green cast as well as unflattering shadows. Most offices are also dark and this will result in a grainy image since you’re not using flash (doing so can result in red eyes and a washed-out face). If you really must take a photo inside use a ring light to simulate daytime lighting and get rid of undesirable shadows.

Strike a Pose

Make sure you’re standing up straight with your shoulders back, your chin lifted and your body slightly leaned towards your phone. Place your upper body at a slight diagonal while your head remains turned to the camera and your arms are either crossed or down at your side. With this posture, you’ll be standing at a nice angle while avoiding the squared-off look. This is why you never want to face the camera head-on. Doing so will also make your shoulders look wide and your head look small.

The Bottom Line

While it can be somewhat daunting to try to capture the Best Executive Headshots with your smartphone it isn’t impossible. Following some of these tips will make this process much easier for you.