If you’re an attorney looking to improve the legitimacy and reach of your online legal services presence, then one of the baseline considerations you have to get a handle on is shooting the best lawyer headshots for your firm.

Curious about what you need to do to maximize the quality of your law firm headshots?  Keep reading to learn more.

Why should you get professional lawyer headshots done?

Headshots for lawyers are important and should not be taken lightly. They are crucial to building a “winning” professional image that will give prospective clients a sense that they can count on you to represent them competently. To that end, it’s important that you do not shoot lawyer headshots on your own — unless you have a high-level photographer at the ready, it’s worth hiring one to shoot and edit the headshot photos. There are many nuances (such as color grading, lighting, and subtle blur effects) that can be difficult for an amateur photographer to execute well.

At both a conscious and subconscious level, a lawyer’s headshot speaks volumes about your values, professionalism, and competency. That’s why it’s so important to not only get headshots for lawyers at your firm but to ensure that those headshots are done in such a way as to gain the audience’s favor.

Planning a Headshots Session

Planning a photo shoot for headshots is crucial to ensure that you get the best possible results. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

• Define Your Goals: Before the session, think about what you want to achieve with your headshots. Are you looking to update your professional image, or do you need headshots for a specific marketing campaign? Having clear goals will guide the entire process.
• Choose a Location: Decide on a location for the session. This could be a studio, your office, or an outdoor setting. Make sure the location is convenient and comfortable for you, as this will help you feel more relaxed during the shoot.
• Select a Photographer: Research and select a photographer who specializes in lawyer headshots. Look at their portfolio and read reviews to ensure they have the experience and style you’re looking for. A skilled photographer will know how to capture your best angles and convey your professional image effectively.
• Prepare Your Attire: Plan your outfit in advance. Stick to neutral colors and avoid busy patterns. Make sure your clothes are clean and pressed. Your attire should reflect the professional image you want to project to potential clients.
• Plan Your Schedule: Schedule the session at a time that works best for you. Make sure you have enough time to get ready and relax before the session. Being rushed can affect your mood and, consequently, the quality of your headshots.

Considerations when getting attorney headshots

Not every headshot is made equal. Good headshots can amplify positive impressions of your professional strengths, while poor-quality headshots can give the audience a sense that you are not quite competitive when it comes to legal representation. To maximize the good and minimize the bad, keep in mind the following considerations: To ensure you get the best attorney headshots, focus on preparation and professionalism, including attire, poses, and suitable backgrounds that align with your legal practice.

Dress professionally to enhance your professional image — formalwear and solid colors work best

The general public still associates “competency” and “professionalism” in the legal profession with suits and formal blouses, which are essential for great lawyer headshots. For instance, a personal injury attorney should project a serious and assertive demeanor through their attire. Though you may prefer to dress more casually in-office, make the effort to dress formally for your headshots. Solid colors are also a good choice. Avoid dramatic, unconventional colors — not only do they appear unprofessional, but they might also cause visibility issues for the camera.

These styles are more appropriate for satisfying the psychological needs of the audience and convincing them that you are capable (as frustrating as it may be that your attire is perceived as a representation of your competency!).

Pose naturally and confidently — you have options, but avoid exaggerated positions

When posing for a lawyer headshot, your photographer will generally provide ample guidance on how to stand and express yourself. A family lawyer, on the other hand, should aim for a warm and approachable demeanor in their pose.

That being said if they do not do so, then you’ll want to know a few things: 1) don’t look emotionless with your expressions (i.e., smile or look reflective, even if you are subtle about it), as it can make you seem much less warm and friendly to prospective clients; 2) maintain eye contact with the camera lens; and 3) pose naturally, and avoid exaggerated positions that can seem forced and inauthentic. A natural and confident pose is key to achieving the perfect lawyer headshot.

Be careful to ensure that the backgrounds do not clash with the attorney-subject

Generally speaking, your headshots will result in blurred backgrounds. As such, specific locational details will not appear in your photos, so you don’t have to use your firm as a backdrop if the lighting isn’t ideal.

That being said, maintain neutral colors in your background, and keep the background as simple as possible so as not to disrupt the visual hierarchy (in other words, avoid distracting the viewer from your face). Incorporate your law firm’s colors where relevant, but keep it subtle!

Understanding Color Theory for Headshots

Color theory plays a crucial role in headshots. The colors you wear can affect the mood and tone of the photo. Here are some tips to help you choose the right colors:

• Neutral Colors: Stick to neutral colors such as black, white, gray, navy blue, and beige. These colors are timeless and will not distract from your face, ensuring that the focus remains on you.
• Earth Tones: Earth tones such as brown, green, and tan can add warmth to your photo. However, be careful not to overdo it, as these colors can also make you look tired if not chosen carefully.
• Avoid Bright Colors: Bright colors such as red, orange, and yellow can be distracting and may not be suitable for a professional headshot. They can draw attention away from your face and may not convey the professional image you want.
• Consider Your Skin Tone: If you have a cool skin tone, look for colors that have a blue or pink undertone. If you have a warm skin tone, look for colors that have a yellow or golden undertone. Choosing colors that complement your skin tone will enhance your overall appearance in the headshot.

Lawyer Headshots Cost and Value

The cost of lawyer headshots can vary depending on the photographer, location, and package. Hiring a professional makeup artist can also enhance your appearance and ensure you look polished and well-groomed. Here are some tips to help you understand the cost and value of lawyer headshots:

• Professional Photographers: A professional photographer who specializes in lawyer headshots can charge anywhere from $200 to $1,000 or more per session. The investment is often worth it for the quality and expertise they bring.
• Package Deals: Many photographers offer package deals that include a certain number of photos, editing, and retouching. These packages can range from $500 to $2,000 or more. Consider what is included in the package to determine the best value for your needs.
• DIY Headshots: If you’re on a tight budget, you can try taking your own headshots. However, keep in mind that the quality may not be the same as a professional photographer. Investing in professional headshots can significantly enhance your professional image and attract potential clients.
• Value: Lawyer headshots are an investment in your professional image. A good headshot can help you stand out in a competitive market and attract potential clients. The return on investment can be substantial, as a great headshot can convey trustworthiness and competence, key factors in attracting new business.

Law Firm Branding in the Digital Age

In today’s digital age, law firm branding is more important than ever. Here are some tips to help you create a consistent visual identity:

• Define Your Brand: Start by defining your law firm’s brand. What values do you want to convey? What sets you apart from other law firms? Having a clear brand identity will guide all your marketing efforts.
• Use Consistent Colors: Choose a color scheme that reflects your brand and use it consistently across all your marketing materials, including your website, social media, and headshots. Consistent use of colors helps reinforce your brand identity.
• Invest in Professional Headshots: Professional headshots are essential for creating a consistent visual identity. Make sure all your legal professionals have high-quality headshots that reflect your brand. This consistency helps build trust and recognition among potential clients.
• Use Consistent Typography: Choose a typography that reflects your brand and use it consistently across all your marketing materials. Consistent typography, along with colors and professional headshots, contributes to a cohesive and professional brand image.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your law firm presents a strong, cohesive brand that resonates with potential clients in the digital age.

Contact Walker Advertising for Helping Growing Your Firm’s Client Base

Whether you’re a solo or small firm lawyer or are part of a larger firm with plans for expanding your client base, it’s important to invest in your marketing efforts in order to hit your revenue and client growth goals.  Here at Walker Advertising, we can help.  We operate a number of popular attorney networks — including our Los Defensores and 1-800-THE-LAW2 brands — through which firms are able to access leads for various legal claims.

The leads we acquire through our various online marketing efforts — from social media marketing to targeted web ads — have been pre-qualified by our team so that you aren’t hassled by a flood of leads that are simply not relevant or actionable for your purposes.  By accessing these quality leads, you’ll be well-equipped to select the best ones to grow your firm business.

Contact Walker Advertising today to connect to a member of our team who can explain how our legal networks can help your firm business thrive in this ever-changing digital marketing landscape.

We look forward to assisting you.