Picture backgrounds are significant to portray the object or person in the picture. It also plays a huge role in the viewer’s perception of the picture. And when you are editing a headshot picture, proper background brings out the model’s skin, colour, emotion, and mood. Thus, a headshot background is important yet critical for any photographer.
If you’re new in the headshot photography market, there are quite a few things you need to start getting your head around. You will need to know photo background removal, the proper styling, strategic and technical approach, and the powerful headshot display.
Thus, this article will work as a professional headshot background guide to kickstart your career in the industry. We will look into different types of professional photo backgrounds and talk about some tips for a successful outcome.
Why Are Headshot Backgrounds Important?
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Even if you’re more concerned with how you appear, the background of your headshot is just as crucial.
A good headshot background should be unnoticeable while still drawing the viewer’s attention to you. In certain circumstances, your photo’s background might perfectly express your company’s style and attitude. If you had a cupcake business, for example, a vibrant and colorful mural in the backdrop would be ideal.
Your company’s joyful and effervescent spirit is reflected in the mural’s vivid hues.
A well-lit and well-organized tool bench in the background may speak to your professionalism if you were a mechanic.
You’re not just a shabby mechanic; you take pride in your job and your customers!
Consider your headshot to be more than a portrait of yourself.
Consider it an opportunity to show off your individuality as well as the distinctiveness of your work. The background you use contributes to the development of your identity.
That is why it is so crucial.
6 Types of Professional Headshot Background
There are several headshot backgrounds that you will notice in a professional headshot background. Currently, the trend sets for 6 total professional headshot backgrounds.
These are as follows:
White background
One of the most common choices for a headshot background is a solid white backdrop. High key backgrounds are another name for white backgrounds.
A solid white gives a clean, uncluttered background for your subject. It’s also the most versatile for digital and printed pictures.
Read Also: Get Rid of White Background in Photoshop
Black background
Although black backdrops are less prevalent than white backgrounds, you’ll almost certainly need them at some time throughout your journey. Because many professionals are using white backgrounds, this one sticks out. So, if you want to stand out, this is a good choice.
Grey background
Grey backgrounds are neutral, making them ideal for most people. Particularly tan or brown face complexion tones prefer grey backgrounds for a headshot. The perfect compromise between white and black is a grey headshot background.
Neutral headshot background
For more relaxed headshots, a natural background is ideal. A natural background might elicit more attention and originality than a monochrome background. You would not want to establish any background distractions because your main emphasis is on your subject.
Wall background
This is a fantastic way to make use of outdoor lighting. Although wall backgrounds are not ideal for business clients, they are ideal for less traditional and more artistic headshots. Plain, layered, and brick walls are some of the wall options.
Coloured background
Coloured backgrounds are now the ideal technique if your customer wants a headshot with a lot of colour and movement. Coloured backdrops are most commonly used in school portraits, but they aren’t restricted to that.
For a headshot background, you can use any colour you want. That includes red, blue, orange, green, and others.
Also Read: How to Change Image Background Color?
5 Factors to Consider in Selecting a Professional Headshot Background
Professional headshots can make a strong first impression on those who see your photo. But what precisely you want to express depends on the following 5 factors:
Background for studio shots
The most versatile and classic method is to use a studio backdrop. There’s no need to be concerned about the wind, the sun, or distracting background objects. They exude professionalism and demonstrate that you invested the effort to obtain a professional photo.
Outdoor headshot backgrounds
The outdoor atmosphere is more relaxed and welcoming. Although you may have to contend with elements such as breeze, weather, and time of the day, an urban (for business), rough (for artists), or neutral (for writers & campaigners) background can all be useful.
These are also more distinct backdrops. Environmentalists, authors, and business executives who operate in outdoor-type fields might consider this option.
In-office headshot backgrounds
Friendly and professional backgrounds exist in the office. For a headshot, a high-end office might be an excellent backdrop. However, if you don’t have entry to a well-lit office, you’re better off shooting outside or in studios.
Headshot background lighting
Studio headshots are the most common use of backdrop lighting. Background light in a studio helps the headshot appear more “professional” and “complete,” which is a common choice for most professionals.
The headshot becomes more “artistic” or “quirky” by removing the backdrop light. This is a beautiful alternative for authors, performers, and business executives who wish to appear forward-thinking.
Face lighting
There are 2 ways to photoshoot a face. One is full-face photography and the other one is half-face photography. Full-face lighting looks more professional and attractive. On the other hand, half-face lighting is useful for making your photo more “edgy” and manly.
5 Quick Tips on Professional Headshot Background
Social networking, company websites, and personal use will benefit from headshots. Your client’s headshots will be used in a variety of ways, so here are some pointers to help you get great photos.
Click photos closer
You can click photos closer by zooming in, utilizing a longer focal distance, or physically approaching your subject. There is natural compression when zooming in and using a larger lens length. Your subject’s face will not be deformed, and the background will be somewhat blurry.
Keep the camera away from the face
A photograph or headshot with shoulders squared to the camera is unattractive. Turn your subject’s shoulder away from the camera instead. This will slim down your subject, and give the headshot more dimension.
Put the focus on the subject’s eyes
A headshot can be brought to life with a minor tilt and catchlight. Because of how close the spectator is to the subject’s eyes in a headshot, eyes are significant.
Dress your model properly
It is important to dress properly even though your model is shooting for their face. A good attire can provide a lot of momentum to the picture. You can ask your clients to wear professional clothes and make them feel comfortable.
Be simple and precise
Lastly, a simple and precise approach can keep the focus on the model of the picture. A busy background might shift attention away from the main object of the picture. Thus, it is crucial to keep things simple when maintaining a professional headshot background.
Read More: How to Take Pictures of an Object
Conclusion
People require headshots for various purposes. They can be professional or personal needs. Keep these pointers in mind when capturing headshots so that your subject appears their best.
Also, ask your client if they have any unique requirements for the background for a professional headshot, such as a particular background or lighting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Read the below answers to the questions you might have on your mind.
What background should I use for headshots?
The most popular headshot background you can use is the white background. This type of headshot background is simple to execute. And the focus remains on the model of the picture as well.
How do you put a professional background on a headshot?
A professional background can have white or black backgrounds. But the main thing to remember is that quirky background ideas may not suit headshot backgrounds for professional purposes.
How do you change the background colour of a professional headshot?
Changing the background colour of a professional headshot largely depends on client requirements and your abilities. Follow the 5-step approach in successfully changing the headshot background colour.
What is the best colour for headshots?
Among several types of background headshot colours, dark ones could possibly be the best. A dark background may not be able to focus on the model. Yet, it adds more life to the picture compared to white backgrounds.
Do headshots need a white background?
There is no direct answer to this question. It all depends on the client’s needs. Some clients might like dark and blurry backgrounds. On the other hand, others might want any other mentioned color background.
