The DOs and DON’Ts of a real estate agent headshot

A distinctive headshot is vital to create an advantageous first impression to your clients and to make you stand out from your rivals. It is something that carries your professional image and brand, which triggers your potential clients to make the first initial call.

Great headshots can be effortless if you have all the right elements, meanwhile, overlooking certain things might ruin your headshot completely. There are several dos and don’ts to make your headshot favourable to your profession.

Headshot plays a vital role in attracting clients to work with you. Some agents tend to use pictures taken ages ago, which result in clients unable to recognise them in person. Hence, updating the headshot regularly is a must!

Always choose a backdrop that is not distracting and has a contrast which separates you from the background. Agents can choose either to snap a picture under natural light or studio light, depending on their needs. A casual office setting or a classic solid background can be considered a good backdrop selection.

Your discomfort can be obvious in the picture if the attire you are wearing is uncomfortable. Wear something appropriate and professional at the same time. Avoid revealing clothing since no one wants to be seen topless in their professional headshot, not in this profession anyway. A sleeved top is highly recommended.

Your smile is the most important accessory on your face and make sure to use it wisely. Smiling displays a positive side of you, as most people would not want to work with a grumpy real estate agent in any case. Portray a gentle and gracious smile for the headshot, and anything more might end up looking creepy. Smiling the right amount will do.

In addition, the eyes play an important role in revealing expressions. A single glance can show how genuine a person is. Thus, having eye contact with your photographer and the camera lens will guarantee a more successful headshot.

Using a selfie as the headshot clearly portrays the lack of maturity and professionalism. Always hire a professional photographer to do the job, since it is vital to add a professional touch and gain worthy advice from the experts. Taking a selfie for the headshot should be hindered at any cost.

One thing that can cause more damage than a selfie is using props in the headshot. This displays the lack of confidence, in which props are used as adds-on to get attention. Using props should be avoided since it is unnecessary and it steals the limelight away from you. You and only you should be the centre of attraction in your headshot.

Photoshop is a great tool to touch up and it helps to make your headshot more pleasing. However, overusing it can ruin your headshot entirely, unless you want to post a picture taken with your friends in social media. For this business, maintain a moderate use of Photoshop.

Striking a pose is acceptable, but avoid posing excessively. Overposing can be as distracting as oversmiling. Give a decent and professional pose which encourages clients to look for you. A comfortable sitting or standing position will do.

Keep the focus on yourself and do not include unnecessary things or people in your headshot. Again, professional headshot is different from pictures taken for social media and it is a must to avoid pets and family members included in it. Unless you can get your headshot taken with Donald Trump.

Make sure to follow all the tips above when taking or updating your agent headshot. PropertyGuru.my offers a great platform for agents to triumph with the newly revamped ‘Agent Directory’. It works as a platform for agents to promote themselves by uploading their agent profile and headshot, so that clients are able find the suitable agents for their needs. For more information, please visit http://www.propertyguru.com.my/property-agents.