How do I get the perfect profile image?

The perfect profile picture involves mainly two aspects: finding somebody to take it and preparing yourself for the photo shoot.

Have your profile picture professionally taken. It might be more expensive than having a friend take it, but it is a worthwhile investment. You will get a properly lit, sharp photo that will show you at your best.

You need to find a photographer that makes you feel calm and relaxed, and who you trust. Meet with your photographer before your photo shoot and discuss your expectations regarding the photos you need. Go over the whole process, so that you feel relaxed and comfortable. Most photographers will also give you some tips on how to get ready for the photo shoot.

After this meeting, start thinking about your outfit(s), hair styling and make-up.

How should you look like on your profile image?

Once you have found a photographer you like, it is time to start thinking about your look for the photos, including clothing, hair and make-up.

Your clothing should be in line with your activity or profession. If you work for a bank, you probably need formal attire, but if you work for an advertising agency, informal, creative and casual outfits are expected. Regardless of the industry or purpose of the profile picture, avoid low cuts and short skirts, since they will limit the poses and angles for the photos. Sleeveless blouses make arms look wider, avoid them if possible. Make sure clothes are the right size and have them altered if necessary. There are no limitations regarding colours and styles of clothes and jewelry. Use the colours and designs that compliment your body shape, skin and hair colour. Plain colours look best. Avoid very small or very large patterns (wider than your arm).

This is not the right time to experiment. You can ask a friend to take photos of you wearing different outfits before the official photo shoot, to give you a chance to decide what works best on you. Your outfit should make you feel confident and relaxed.

Make-up is another very important aspect to consider. You probably need more make-up than how much you wear on a daily basis. You can apply your make-up yourself or have a make-up artist help with it, but regardless, make sure it highlights your natural features, without making you look like somebody else. Regardless of what you choose, something important to keep in mind is that studio lights absorb colour and make you look pale so pay special attention to what you put on your skin and make sure you don't come out looking like a ghost! Make-up should be in line with your outfit. If this is a Glamour Photo, for example, apply a lot more make-up to give you a unique and sophisticated look that compliments your outfit.

Last but not the least, prepare your hair for the photo shoot. Hair is the frame of your face and it should enhance your natural features. Don’t experiment with a new colour or haircut before a photo shoot. Make sure you like how it looks, get used to it for a few days and learn how to manage it before the big day. This is particularly important if you live in hot and humid place like Singapore. If possible, have hair and make-up done at the photography studio, so that it looks perfect when the photo is taken.

Finally, sleep well the night before the shoot and don’t drink any alcohol. Remember not to pack the hours before the shoot with any other activity, just relax and enjoy the experience.

Grafika Photography is having a Glamour/Profile Photo Shoot in September. For only S$199, you can have two amazing profile photos, including two 5”x7”  and six passport size prints. You will also get the low resolution files of the printed images, perfect for on-line use. Bring a friend and get a discounted price of only S$150 each.

Check Grafika Photography Design for details.

Visit Grafika Photography and Design page to find out more about Helga's work.

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