What Your Body Language Is Saying in Your Headshot

Guest post by Photographer Corey Narsted

Before anyone reads your bio, your headshot is already talking. Here’s what your body language says and how to fix it.

Visibility & Showing Up

What Your Body Language Is Saying in Your Headshot (And How to Fix It)

Guest post by Corey Narsted · On the Bridge

When someone sees your headshot, they’re not just seeing what you look like. They’re making decisions. Before they know anything about your experience, they’ve already formed an impression of who you are. Confident or unsure. Approachable or distant. Professional or not quite.

That judgment is coming from your body language.

Photography by Corey Narsted — cmimagesmedia.ca

“A headshot is your first impression, one you don’t get to explain. What do you want yours to say?”

Your headshot is communicating more than you think

Most people assume a good headshot is about looking “nice” or “professional.” But that’s only part of it. A strong headshot communicates. It answers unspoken questions like:

Can I trust this person?

Do they seem confident?

Do they feel approachable?

Would I want to work with them?

The challenge is that these signals are subtle, and they’re often controlled by small things you’re not even aware you’re doing.

Why most people look awkward in photos

If you’ve ever thought “I’m just not photogenic,” you’re not alone. But here’s the truth: it’s not that you aren’t photogenic, you just don’t look photogenic in photos yet. And that’s not your fault, that’s the photographer’s job to fix.

A good photographer will guide you through the whole process, adjusting your posture, helping you relax, and making sure your body language matches the impression you want to give.

The real issue is what happens when you step in front of a camera. You feel uncertain. Uncertain is rooted in fear. And your body, trying to protect you, reacts in ways you don’t even notice. You unconsciously tighten your shoulders, close off your posture, lift your chin, widen your eyes, and fall into positions that feel safe but photograph as stiff or guarded.

Common body language mistakes (and what they actually say)

Crossing your arms It feels natural and comfortable, but in a professional photo it often reads as closed off, guarded, and less approachable. Think about it: what’s the first thing you do when someone says something you disagree with? You cross your arms. Your audience feels that, even in a still image.

Lifting your chin too high A lot of people associate a raised chin with confidence. In reality, it often communicates detachment, superiority, and a lack of connection. It’s actually a fear-based reaction, your brain trying to make you look bigger when you feel threatened. A slightly lowered, natural chin position feels far more grounded and far more confident.

Slouching Slouching feels relaxed, but in a photo it can come across as lethargic or intimidated. Neither of those inspires confidence in the person looking at your headshot.

The deer-in-the-headlights look Wide eyes are a sign of fear. When you’re scared, your eyes go wide instinctively to expand your peripheral vision and spot a threat. Great survival instinct, not so great in a professional headshot.

The mafia goon pose If given no instruction, most people naturally hold their hands over their midsection. It’s a protective reflex. A good photographer will redirect you before you even realize you’re doing it.

Photography by Corey Narsted — cmimagesmedia.ca

What strong, professional body language actually looks like

Good body language in a headshot isn’t dramatic. It’s subtle. It looks like an open, relaxed posture, shoulders that aren’t raised or tight, a natural head position, a slight angle instead of rigid symmetry, and an expression that feels present, not forced.

These aren’t poses. They’re small adjustments that change how you’re perceived. And those small adjustments make a big difference.

You don’t need to know how to pose

This is where a lot of people get stuck. They feel like they need to prepare, practice, or figure out what to do before their session. You don’t. In fact, trying to control everything usually makes things worse.

Your job is simple: show up.

A headshot is about how you’re perceived. The difference between a photo that works and one that doesn’t often comes down to small details that might not be noticed but are certainly felt. With the right guidance, those small adjustments happen naturally, and the result is a photo that actually feels like you on your best day.

Photography by Corey Narsted — cmimagesmedia.ca

Frequently asked questions

What is the best body language for a professional headshot? The goal is to look confident and approachable. You want to look like you know what you’re doing and you enjoy doing it.

Why do I look awkward in photos? The simple answer is uncertainty. You don’t know what to do, which makes you feel uncomfortable. Certain defensive instincts take over that lead to awkward expressions and closed-off posture.

How can I look natural in photos instead of stiff? Shoulder position has a lot to do with looking stiff. Push your shoulders back and down a bit to look less stiff and more natural and relaxed.

Should I look directly at the camera? For most shots, yes. You want to appear to have a direct line of sight with whoever will be looking at the photo to establish connection.

About the author Corey Narsted - Professional Photographer

Corey Narsted is a professional photographer in Montreal who specializes in commercial photography and weddings.

Explore his work: Commercial Photography · Wedding Photography · LinkedIn

If you’re looking for 1:1 support for your business

Check out the different ways we can work together here:

90-MINUTE STRATEGY CALL

SIGNATURE 4-WEEK OFFER

Ready to start?

You aren’t a beginner in your gifts—it’s time your brand reflected the expert you already are. Stop overthinking and start leading.

I’m Ready For Clarity