Many things go into a great headshot: the right clothes, perfect location, good rest the night before, right time of day, a skilled photographer. Even a good shot can be improved after the fact, however, with editing.

There are many potential layers and or work flow paths to the editing of any single photo. First, will the picture be color or black and white? In the example below, we began with a color photo as shot in camera.

Unedited Headshot

The client, a professional musician, had a goal to convey artistry and professionalism. Black and white is a great vehicle for this message, so we converted the image to grayscale.

Headshot Edited by Conversion to Grayscale

Next, we decided to further enhance the image by cropping it to pull more focus to the face and the hand on the guitar. We also altered the tilt by a few degrees. This image is otherwise relatively untouched. Bags under the eyes and other skin blemishes were left as they initially appeared to lend a feel of deeper character. These are other aspects of editing a client may request to taste.

Final Headshot Prior to Blemish Retouch

Each of these images is basically the same, and yet they are radically different.

To view the final edited version after slight retouch for blemish removals click here.