When a headshot is used publicly, on LinkedIn, your company’s website, speaker bios, press features, or even just an email footer, it becomes more than just a photo. It becomes your first impression.
That’s exactly why I approach professional headshots with care and intention. I recently had the pleasure of working with Andzelika Kurek, an exceptional makeup artist and someone I’ve collaborated with on numerous creative shoots. This time, she stepped in front of the camera for a personal branding session at the studio.
The Importance of Expression
A strong headshot needs to convey something meaningful in just a second or two, often at a tiny size. In those fleeting moments, we form instinctive judgements. Does this person seem approachable? Confident? Trustworthy?
A neutral or disengaged expression can unintentionally signal discomfort or disinterest. That’s not what most professionals want to communicate, especially in industries where personal connection and trust matter. A well-lit, well-composed image only works if the expression feels present.
Andzelika understood this intuitively. Her expressions had energy and poise without ever feeling forced. Her subtle smile, confident posture, and engaged eyes all came together to make the image feel genuine.
Working with Energy and Intention
The best headshots happen when a client brings a bit of energy and curiosity into the session. It’s not about overacting, it’s about being present.
When clients arrive relaxed and willing to play along, it transforms everything. Posture improves, eye contact sharpens, and expressions come alive. The camera catches all those micro-movements, and it’s those small shifts that elevate a shot from acceptable to excellent.
That was exactly the case with Andzelika. We had a great rhythm, with space for adjustment and feedback between shots. It’s always a bonus when someone understands how light interacts with makeup, and how subtle changes in head position affect the image.
A Polished, Modern Look
The brief for this session was straightforward: create clean, professional imagery that could be used across platforms, from websites to social media. Andzelika’s branding leans modern, with a clear, confident aesthetic. The lighting setup prioritised flattering skin tones, natural texture, and clean shadow control.
We built the session around neutral backdrops and a wardrobe palette that worked seamlessly with her makeup and skin tone. Subtle changes in pose and expression gave us variety across the set without losing visual coherence.
Behind the Scenes and Professional Insight
As a creative who regularly works behind the scenes, Andzelika also had a lot to say about what makes a photography experience feel supportive and effective. Here’s a section from her testimonial:
“I recently had the pleasure of stepping out from behind the brushes and in front of the lens for a professional branding photoshoot with Bob Foyers. Having collaborated with Bob many times as a Makeup Artist (Andzelika Kurek Makeup) on various projects, I already knew his technical skills were top-notch, but experiencing his process as a client was a fantastic experience.
The final images are absolutely stunning. They are polished, modern, and perfectly represent my brand. I will be using these photos across my official website and social media platforms to launch my new branding.”
Andzelika also highlighted the importance of having a relaxed, confident environment, something I prioritise with every client, whether it’s their first shoot or their fiftieth.
What Clients Often Want from a Headshot Session
From years of working with professionals across industries, I’ve found that most clients want:
- Clear direction and a calm, unrushed pace
- Practical guidance on posing and expression
- Lighting that flatters without feeling artificial
- A background that supports their personal brand
- Help selecting wardrobe that looks right on camera
- Accurate colour handling and natural skin tone
- Someone to catch stray hairs, creases, or shine
- Enough variety to use the images in different contexts
- A straightforward selection process
- Retouching that respects their natural features
These aren’t extravagant demands, they’re reasonable expectations that make a noticeable difference in the final images.
Final Thoughts
This session with Andzelika was a reminder of what makes a great headshot shoot: trust, collaboration, and clarity of purpose. We created a focused, professional set of images that reflect not just how she looks, but how she works, calm, skilled, and modern.
If you’re looking for more details on what to expect from a session like this, take a look at my Headshot Photographyand Personal Branding Photography
And if you’re a makeup artist or creative stepping in front of the camera for your own shoot, it’s well worth investing a little time in crafting an image that works as hard as you do.
See more about my professional headshots in Suffolk.
See more about my personal branding photography in Suffolk.