How can I make non-model headshot subjects look their best without heavy Photoshop?
Asked 5/13/2019
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2 answers
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I photograph headshots for everyday people, not professional models, and I want to flatter subjects with lighting, posing, lens choice, clothing, makeup, and framing rather than relying on Photoshop. Some subjects may have wrinkles, scars, birthmarks, or features they feel self-conscious about. Are there practical techniques to make headshots more appealing while still looking natural, and how much does the intended purpose of the headshot affect those choices?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
7y ago
2 Answers
21
There are not "ugly" people. There is bad lighting.
Well, there are several things to consider. I am just making a list, but you need to take a dive into each of them.
1. Location
You can make an interesting portrait giving some context. I do not mind a scar at all, probably it is due to a hazardous environment... what if you take a photo on that environment.
2. Light
Arguably the most important thing on a portrait. Most likely diffuser size angle and contrast, to mention some elements.
3. Makeup and clothing
Help your client look the way they are meant to look.
4. Lens and framing
Choose the best option for the occasion.
5. Posing
Here we are on the major leagues. This is not a theoretical situation, it is about people. You are the one making decisions on the portrait... so MAKE decisions and communicate them.
6. ATTITUDE!
The attitude is beyond posing, it is a fantasy land where the interaction between you, your model, the imagination and all the previous elements fuse together...
You are not a photographer... you are the director.
I want to add that this attitude is given by the confidence and trust you inspire on your subject. They are relying upon you are taking the best possible shot.
- And some photoshop will not hurt.
You need to go way deeper. For example, my basic search terms can be "portrait photography light" but if you type "sports portrait photography light" you get a new world of configurations. You need to explore and practice.
Originally by user37321. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user37321
7y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes—good headshots are usually more about flattering choices than about “fixing” a person. Start with the purpose of the portrait, because what looks appealing depends on whether it’s for business, acting, editorial, or something more personal.
The biggest factors are lighting and posing. Soft, diffused light generally reduces the appearance of wrinkles, scars, and skin texture. Lens choice and framing also matter: use a flattering portrait focal length and avoid angles that exaggerate features. Guide expression and posture carefully; for example, if someone is self-conscious about their teeth, a closed-mouth expression may work better.
Makeup, hair, and clothing can help the subject look like their best self, and the location/background can add context that makes a portrait more interesting rather than focusing only on facial features. Features like scars or wrinkles are not always problems—they can add character depending on the portrait’s goal.
In short: use soft light, thoughtful posing, flattering framing, and styling first. Retouching can be a last step, but strong portrait technique should do most of the work.
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