Organizing company headshots for an entire team doesn't have to feel like herding cats. When it's done right, you can get consistent, high-quality corporate headshots with zero stress and maybe even have your team enjoy picture day!
Here's my five step guide for pulling it off:
1. Communicate the Plan
Company headshots that always turn out great start with great planning rather than adding it onto the end of a stressful day.
- Choose the right date: all-hands meetings, leadership retreats or in-office days are the best.
- Give plenty of notice: 3-4 weeks is ideal so everyone can schedule a hair appointment.
- Send style guidelines: if you want your team to look consistent, give them a guideline of what you expect.
I always send my corporate clients a custom headshot preparation guide so no one's wondering if shorts and a crumpled shirt are okay for their headshot (unless that's their thing, then let's just roll with it!)
2. Make it Stupidly Simple for Employees on Headshot Day
When employees don't know where to go, what time they're being photographed or if they have to wait, it shows in their final photos. Here's the best ways to make it a seamless process for everyone:
- Online scheduling links: allow employees to schedule around their meetings.
- Clear signage: if you're at an off-site, make sure there's clear instructions and signage to the photographer.
- Instant image review: this is our for employees select their favorite images right after the session in case they need a reshoot.
At Chad Isaiah Studios, we offer instant image review right on-site with the SpotMyPhotos platform. We can do assisted image selection with each employee and acting as quality control for you, or we can deliver the images right to your employees' emails. No more back-and-forth for you!
3. Plan for Remote Employees
If your team is spread across offices or states, there's no reason to settle for mismatched headshots.
- In-office days: the simplest solution is to schedule headshots for large on-site gatherings.
- Photographer networks: work with a photographer who has colleagues around the country who can recreate your headshots.
- Style guidelines: work with your photographer to design a photography guideline for the most remote employees to search for a local photographer.
4. Hire a Photographer who Specializes in Headshots
A good headshot isn't just about standing in front of a camera. It's about looking comfortable, confident, and approachable. You need a photographer who can:
- Expression coaching: headshots aren't just about lighting – it's about putting employees at ease to get authentic expressions.
- Make your life easy: online scheduling, instant image selection and delivery, minimal emails – zero admin work for the organizer!
Employee Headshots should be Easy
Organizing company headshots is an investment in how your team shows up online.
If you want a photographer who travels, matches your brand style, and makes the process stress-free for you and your team, let's talk about your next company headshot session.
Frequently Asked Questions about Company Headshots
Will you take care of scheduling and emailing everyone?
Yes. Oftentimes the most work you have to do is send out a scheduling link. We take care of all scheduling, reminders, image selection and gallery delivery. You can sit back and relax.
How long does a session take per person?
Most people are in and out in under 5 minutes, including image selection.
How often should we update our company headshots?
Every 2-3 years, or whenever there's a major team change, rebrand, or website redesign.
Do you travel for corporate headshots?
Yes - we travel across the United States to photograph corporate teams. If you have an annual off-site coming up, this is the perfect opportunity to capture geographically dispersed teams.
