15 Expert Tips for Superb Realtor Headshots

In real estate, your professional headshot stands out as your ultimate marketing tool. Your digital presence serves as the initial handshake with potential clients, offering a glimpse of your professional persona.

The key? Opt for polished photos that truly capture your spirit. Crafting the perfect real estate headshot is as simple as this: enlist a skilled professional photographer, set up a session, and flash that winning smile. But there’s more to it than meets the eye.

This piece provides valuable insights on nailing your realtor headshots with finesse.

Why Should I Get Professional Realtor Headshots?

They say a picture paints a thousand words. And, when clients come across your site or ads, a well-crafted headshot ensures a positive first impression.

In the real estate world, crafting a reliable professional marketing strategy goes hand in hand with having a compelling and magnetic headshot. Real estate is all about connecting with people, and your professional image is the first chance to make a lasting impression on your community.

Whether you’re interacting with clients through website listings or Facebook, a confident and professional realtor headshot speaks volumes. Sometimes, a truly exceptional realtor headshot can serve as the key that opens doors to successful negotiations in the real estate industry.

​What Should Real Estate Agent Headshots Look Like?

Your real estate headshot should match what you aim for in the property game. If you’re getting serious about starting your own business, go for a formal shot with a composed look. But, if you’re dealing in smaller cities, a friendly smile against an outdoor backdrop works wonders for buying or selling properties.

Choose your photo location wisely—whether it’s indoors or against a scenic backdrop, it should suit the image you want to convey and should add an authentic touch to the overall impression.

Here are some pro tips for capturing ideal professional headshots.

1. Figure Out Your Brand and Goals

Choosing a professional photographer and planning your photoshoot starts with knowing your brand and goals. If you haven’t defined your brand, now would be a good time to do it. Consider aspects like personal branding and real estate branding.

Personal branding is about showcasing your identity, while real estate branding is about creating a distinct identity for properties or real estate services.

Clearly state your goals and align them with your brand elements. This ensures the photographer captures visuals that represent your brand effectively. This plan helps make your photo shoot a success by blending your personal style and real estate identity into the visuals.

2. Take a Peek at the Headshots of Other Real Estate Agents

Check out the headshots of other real estate agents. It can give you ideas on how to present yourself professionally. Look for styles and poses that catch your eye, and see how agents in your industry express their personality through their headshots.

It’s not about copying but finding inspiration to make your headshot stand out in the real estate scene. So, go ahead, explore what others are doing, and use it as a starting point to capture a headshot that reflects your unique style and approach.

3. ​Find the Right Photographer for Professional Realtor Headshots

For the best realtor headshots, turn to professional photographers who specialize in portrait photography and capturing professional-looking headshots. Ask if your photographer has experience with realtor headshots and be sure to check their portfolio. Discuss your desired appearance in the photograph to ensure you get a great headshot that meets your expectations.

4. Choose Your Shoot Location

Pick the perfect shoot location for your headshot—consider studios or outdoor locations. When choosing, think about how the background can make you stand out. White backdrops for a photo shoot are proven to be powerful and work well on online profiles. They’re bright, clean, and draw attention to you.

When you’re shooting in a specific location, consider the properties you sell and make that part of your background. You’re in the real estate industry, and a slightly blurred street or a brick wall can add a nice touch to your sales strategy.

5. Dress Like A Boss

When preparing for your realtor headshot, think “boss mode” with your outfit. Wear professional business clothes that make you feel confident but keep them comfortable so you’re not feeling all stiff during the shoot.

There’s no need to go too casual – we’re aiming for that sweet spot where you look professional and polished yet approachable. You want professionals from the corporate world and commercial real estate to think, “This person means business.” 

Make sure your headshot outfit matches your company’s image, and choose a headshot that blends well with the overall corporate tone. 

6. Wear Your Most Inviting Smile

According to research done by the Journal of Personality Psychology Bulletin, people with happy pictures tend to appear more trustworthy than those who are unhappy.

Shootmensow.co.uk says “A genuine smile in your headshot can convey warmth and openness, making you more relatable to potential clients or employers.”

A genuine and warm smile has the power to reach beyond the lips and radiate through the eyes, creating a positive and approachable aura. The magic lies in conveying sincerity and friendliness without the need to showcase your teeth. Let your smile be a reflection of warmth and openness that shines through your eyes, leaving a lasting impression that goes beyond mere facial expressions.

7. Bring in a Professional Makeup Artist

Sure, you might be skilled at doing your makeup, but tapping into the expertise of a professional makeup artist can ensure you look your absolute best. Keep it minimal for professional realtor headshots, and let your true self shine through in the photo.

Heavy makeup can overshadow your natural look, so ask your makeup artist for a more natural appearance to convey your genuine image effectively. Consider consulting with your headshot photographer when selecting makeup before scheduling your shoot.

8. Get Several Headshots for Multiple Purposes

Talk to your professional photographer about getting a bunch of realtor headshots for your real estate business. A professional-looking headshot can fit into any promotional strategies and marketing materials you’re creating, making your business look professional.

Some headshots work better on certain platforms, so having a variety makes sense. It lets you stay fresh with the seasons, and connect with different prospective clients. Remember to avoid using low-resolution photos for the best results.

9. Check Your Eyes for Redness Before Your Photo Shoot

Before your headshot photography session, take a moment to check your eyes for any redness. Clear and bright eyes can significantly enhance the impact of your headshots.

Red eyes may distract from your professional image, so it’s essential to ensure they look their best before stepping in front of the camera.

10. Consider Adding a Video Shoot with Your Photo Shoot

To make your professional headshots stand out, try adding videos for that extra touch. When talking to your photographer, ask about combining headshot photos with video footage—it’s a game-changer.

Some photographers do both photos and videos or team up with videographers. Doing a headshot and video combo saves time and keeps your branded content looking good.

Share the videos on Instagram or Facebook, keeping them versatile. You can even make a video of your photo shoot for your website, showing folks you’re a serious realtor putting in the effort for pro headshots.

11. Let Your Photographer Edit Your Realtor Headshot

Light editing is okay with your final headshots. However, it is best to leave the editing with the professional photographers.

They have the know-how to use the proper editing tools. Have confidence that they’ll deliver a great realtor headshot. Over-editing photos may appear unnatural.

12. Tone Down the Accessories

When it comes to headshots, less is more when picking out your accessories. Skip the scarves, hats, and any bulky add-ons that might steal the spotlight from your face. Keep it simple and elegant.

Generally speaking, small, subtle jewelry is fine, as long as it doesn’t overshadow your facial features. Remember, the goal is to highlight your face, not distract from it. If you can go without eyeglasses for the shoot, it’s a good idea. This allows the focus to remain on your eyes and expression without any potential glare or reflections.

When capturing your headshot, remember to keep the focus on you. Avoid posing with family or other individuals. A headshot is a personal representation of yourself. So, keep it clean, keep it classy, and let your natural charm shine through in your headshots!

13. Ask People You Don’t Know to Pick Your Best Headshot

When you’re deciding on your professional headshot, it’s a smart move to ask people you don’t know well for their thoughts. Why? Well, they can give you an honest and unbiased take.

Sometimes we all have our ideas about how we come across, and it can get tricky to clearly see ourselves. Maybe you’ve got a certain image in mind, but it might not work out for various reasons.

And let’s be real, your friends or colleagues might be a bit biased or not want to hurt your feelings. So, talking to strangers about your professional headshot can help you get a clear and unbiased view, making sure your photo clicks with everyone.

14. Acquire the Complete Usage Rights and Copyright for Your Headshots

It’s important to consider the rights associated with your headshots. Photographers usually keep the copyright of the pictures they take. However, you can buy the usage rights.

It’s a good idea to have a chat with your photographer about copyrights and how you intend to use the photos. If you want to post your pictures, you’ll need permission. To use them commercially, you must secure the appropriate permissions.

When you have control over the copyrights of your headshot, you can decide how to use the images. Discuss and choose whether to purchase full use rights and copyright for your headshots. Ensure you have the freedom to use them as you wish.

15. Do Test Shots

Before the big day, it’s important to do some test shots to nail that perfect photo. Try on your chosen outfit and enlist your coworkers for a quick shoot.

While these shots may not reach pro-level perfection, they allow you to experiment with different expressions and poses. Think of it as a practice round to make sure you’re comfortable and confident in front of the camera.

To Sum It Up

In the real estate game, your headshot is your first handshake with potential clients. It’s not just about a pretty picture; it’s about showing who you are as a realtor. By hiring a good photographer, picking the right spot, and looking sharp, you can make sure your headshot tells your story. And don’t forget to update it every year to keep things fresh!

FAQs on Real Estate Headshots

Here are some frequently asked questions about realtor headshots that we’ll address.