9 BEST TIPS FOR GREAT REALTOR HEADSHOTS EVERY AGENT SHOULD KNOW
REALTOR HEADSHOTS ARE AN ESSENTIAL PART OF ANY REAL ESTATE AGENT’S MARKETING TOOL KIT. FIND OUT THE BEST TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL REALTOR HEADSHOT SESSION.
Realtor headshots are more than just another picture of your face. They are your marketing tool. They are your first impression. They are your brand. In short, they matter.
You can’t use just any picture as your headshot. Real estate is a business of trust. Your real estate headshots are your first step in building trust with potential clients — so it has to count!
Your real estate headshots will be displayed on business cards, billboards, benches, and social media, so it makes sense to hire a professional.
Here are nine research-tested ways to create a stunning headshot.
1. HIRE A PROFESSIONAL
When it comes to getting realtor photos taken, you have to hire a professional. Professional photographers can provide tips for the perfect headshot poses, proper lighting, and image editing.
Not only that, but also a professional photographer can be worth their weight in gold. Building a partnership with a photographer has been proven to increase a real estate agent’s profits.
A recent study showed that real estate agents who hired a third-party professional photographer make twice as much as commission as real estate agents who don’t.
Hire a professional photographer who can improve your branding and increase profits.
2. IT’S ALL ABOUT THE EYES
According to a study conducted by Photofeeler, a social media tool that ranks headshots by certain characteristics, eyes are an important feature in headshots.
The study was based on three characteristics: competence, likability, and influence. According to the statistics of 60,000 people polled, here’s what they found.
DON’T COVER YOUR EYES
Some people love the way they look in sunglasses, but if you’re using sunglasses in your headshot, you may be coming off the wrong.
According to Photofeeler, wearing sunglasses that obstruct your eyes makes come across less likable. It’s not just glasses either.
Headshots that obstructed the eyes due to camera glare, hair, or a shadow made people seem less competent.
THE POWER OF “SQUINCHING”
If you are looking to come across as more likable, competent, and influential to your customers, perfect the art of squinching. What is squinching you ask?
Squinching is a term used for slightly squinting during a picture. People who use squinching come across more confident and self-assured. How much?
People who squinch in their picture are considered to be:
33% more competent
22% more likable
37% more influential
People who take photos with wide-open eyes tend to come across as scared, so get in front of that mirror and practice your squinch!
3. SHOW OFF THAT JAWLINE
You got a sharp chin? You’re a lucky dog! According to research, using headshot poses that showcase your jawline makes you appear more competent, likable, and influential.
The report indicates that a chiseled jawline in your picture makes you:
24% more competent
18% more likable
18% more influential
Have your photographer take multiple poses that show off your flattering jawline, and you’ll be on your way to commissions.
4. FLASH THOSE PEARLY WHITES
Sometimes it’s better to be seen as more approachable than serious, that’s why we suggest you show off that smile.
According to research conducted by the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Biology, smiling builds trust. Real estate is all about connecting and selling yourself, and trust is a major way to get there.
A closed-mouth smile also has half the effect than a smile that shows teeth, so give the camera a nice big smile!
5. DRESS FOR SUCCESS
It’s important to wear clothes in your headshot that promote a successful persona. This can really do wonders for making you look more confident, competent, and influential.
We recommend solid colors as they can promote strength.
You’ll want to bring a few outfits so that you can see what works for you. The point is to wear something that makes you feel confident as this will shine through in your headshot.
Make sure to speak with your photographer about colors, patterns, or prints before your session.
6. CONSIDER GOING OUTSIDE
Depending on your real estate market, it may make sense to go outside for your picture. This could coincide with your branding if you are selling in a particular market, like near the beach.
Another thing to consider is that natural lighting can help the camera, and the setting can make your headshot look more interesting.
While setting doesn’t seem to play a huge role in factors like likability or competence, it may just influence some of your target customers to call.
7. GET MULTIPLE SHOTS FOR BRANDING
It’s no surprise that when you work as a real estate agent you will deal with different demographics. Certain demographics prefer someone who looks professional, while other demographics may prefer someone who looks casual.
You’ll want headshots that speak to your different target audiences, but don’t clash with your brand.
Bring multiple outfits that reflect different styles for specific target audiences.
8. USE POWER POSES TO BUILD CONFIDENCE
Studies have shown that even if you are having a bad day, holding a power pose for a few minutes tricks your brain into feeling more confident. No one wants to see a headshot of an unconfident person, so use this trick as a mind hack to get prepared for your shot.
For more information on power poses and their effect on the mind, check out Amy Cuddy’s powerful TED Talk on the link between power poses and confidence.
9. TEST YOUR HEADSHOTS ON PHOTOFEELER
Once you have taken our advice, hired a professional photographer, and have nailed your realtor pictures, it’s time to get social proof, and Photofeeler will help you find your best headshot to put out in the market.
Simply upload your headshots, then wait for people to vote on them. Use the ones that rank best, and you’ve got social proof of which headshot will work for your market. No more guessing.
FIND A PHOTOGRAPHER FOR YOUR REALTOR HEADSHOTS
There you have it, your nine research-tested ways to take the best realtor headshots to build your brand in any market.
If you’re looking for a photographer who has the experience to help you make your headshot stand out from the rest, contact us to schedule a photo shoot.