We live in a current state of mind that everything has to be instantaneous … but sometimes you need to stop and think – scary huh? One of these instances is also the image you want to put forth to the world.

The first thing you are going to want to consider is personal versus professional. If you are a business owner, it’s even more granular it’s personal versus business.

I hear you, your social media is separate – my business and personal pages are separate … Sorry, it’s not that way anymore.

Here’s a dose of reality, people see it ALL. They see every image you post, every status you post and every comment you make. People then make decisions about you based on those factors. They make hiring and buying decisions based on those posts/images/comments so how about you do your best to limit how people will see you.

If you are a business owner, you should have headshot images taken in your work space, full stop. This is how and where your clients are going to see you. You have only one chance to make a first impression.

Remember what it was like seeing your teacher at the grocery store? Admit it, it was weird – so don’t do that to your customers.

But it’s trendy to have coffee shop photos … I know the ones you are talking about — you sipping coffee in front of your computer at your favorite caffeine provider that are all over Pinterest.

Neat idea, but how does that relate to your business? Do you engage your clients in a coffee shop? No? Then why are you having your photos taken there? But that’s what everyone is doing … but are you everyone? No, you need to do you, set yourself apart from the masses.

If you are a grief counselor, having your headshot be posed with your motorcycle in parking lot is probably a big disconnect. A business casual business in studio or in the space where your counseling sessions will occur is will be a better fit.

There is a fine line between sharing your personal preferences and what will confuse your customer. Having a properly posed, lit and styled headshot is key.

If you want just use your headshot for your personal profile, by all means, go stand in a field. However, if you want to use it to market your business, let’s consider using your space where you will welcome your clients.