The Realtor’s Guide to the Perfect Headshot

There is no way around it: a good headshot is essential to being a successful real estate agent. Whether you’re new to the industry or are still using a headshot from 5-10 years ago, the answer is yes. Yes, it’s time to invest in better headshots. 

Why do you need a headshot?

Your personality should be enough, right? Wrong. In real estate, you are your business’s brand and you want that brand to be recognizable. Consider this: over 65% of the population are visual learners, meaning they comprehend images faster than words. Thus, it’s in your best interest for your headshot to represent you well, and for you to display it as often as possible. 

Where should you use your headshot?

Your headshot isn’t just for your website or social media profile (although it absolutely should go in both of those places). You’ll also want to use your headshot across any and all marketing collateral you produce. That starts with your business card and email signature — both of which you should be setting up in week-one of starting your business. 

Although you may see business cards and email signatures without headshots, SellWell agents report incredible success when they are included. Imagine if a client went to 5+ open houses in a day and came home with a pocket full of business cards. Your card is the only one with a headshot and they immediately remember your face. Who do you think they call first?

You can also use your headshot on open house signs, listing flyers, buyer and seller guides, your pre-listing packets, and so much more.

Should you hire a professional photographer? 

The answer to this question depends a lot on your budget and where you are in your career. If you are just starting out and have a top-of-the-line smartphone, you may be able to go the DIY route. Smartphone cameras have come a long way and it is a lot easier to snap high quality photos. Of course, you’ll want to have someone you trust take the photos, and put time and care into the background you use. You’ll also want to be confident in your editing skills so you can add finishing touches.

Since you will be investing in printing your headshots on all the above-mentioned collateral, it’s likely worth hiring a professional in 99% of situations. Not only will the photos look better, but you will save the time and energy it takes to do it yourself.

With a professional, you’ll benefit from their expertise and guidance when it comes to landing the poses and angles that show you in your best light. You’ll also benefit from their professional equipment and editing software. That’s a lot of value for your dollar beyond just the person behind the camera.

Where do I find a photographer?

Start by asking your fellow Realtors for a referral. Hiring someone who has photographed Realtors before is always beneficial as they’ll have a good idea of what you want. Check out the websites of any potential hires and make sure you connect with their style. If all else fails, you can always do a Yelp search in your area.

What kind of photos should you get taken? 

It never hurts to take a range of headshot-style and lifestyle photos that you may be able to use for your marketing collateral. However, you’ll want to be sure you walk away with some excellent half or quarter headshot options to use for listing photos and your email signature. These will likely be your main headshots moving forward. Be sure to ask the photographer how many photos you’ll receive, and how many edited photos you’ll receive, so you use your time to its fullest.

How do I prepare for a photoshoot? 

Of course, the photographer is only half the equation when it comes to a successful photoshoot. You’ll want to prepare yourself mentally and physically to show up strong. That means getting a great night’s sleep and staying hydrated, as well as taking care in choosing your wardrobe. Make sure your shirt won’t blend with the background and isn’t too busy that it distracts from your face.

Don’t be afraid to add a little more makeup than usual (that goes for everyone!) and use a touch of hair spray to withstand any weather you might experience on your way to the photoshoot.

Above all, it’s essential that you’re confident in yourself and your brand. Arrive feeling good — having given yourself time to drink a coffee and collect your thoughts. Make sure you are happy with the way you are represented and ask to see photos throughout. Remember: you are the most important part of your business and you want your headshot to show you at your best!