Executive presence isn’t something you can fake. But your headshot can either support it or undermine it completely.

I’ve photographed hundreds of executives, from startup CEOs to Fortune 500 leaders, and the difference between a standard headshot and one that communicates real leadership is subtle but powerful.

The Leadership Paradox

Great executive headshots balance two seemingly opposite qualities:

Authority - You look like someone who makes important decisions and commands respect.

Approachability - You look like someone people want to work with, not someone they’re afraid of.

Get the balance wrong and you either look intimidating and unapproachable, or friendly but not serious. Neither serves you well.

What Executive Presence Looks Like

Confident Eye Contact: Not aggressive, not soft. Direct and steady. This alone communicates more leadership than any power pose.

Genuine Expression: The slight smile that says “I’m confident in my expertise and comfortable in my position.” Not forced, not overly casual.

Polished but Authentic: You look put-together without looking like you’re trying too hard. The clothing, grooming, and overall image reflect your level of success.

Appropriate Context: The background, lighting, and overall aesthetic match your industry and position. A startup CEO and a law firm partner need different visual approaches.

Common Executive Headshot Mistakes

The Overly Casual Shot: You’re approachable, but you don’t look like you’re in charge of anything important.

The Power Pose Cliché: Arms crossed, serious face. You look defensive, not confident.

The Outdated Photo: Using a headshot from 5+ years ago signals you’re not current or you’re hiding something.

The Inconsistent Brand: Your headshot doesn’t match the level of your position or the sophistication of your organization.

Strategic Considerations for Leaders

Your headshot needs to work in multiple contexts:

  • Board presentations: Projects authority and credibility
  • Conference speaking: Approachable and engaging
  • Media and PR: Professional and quotable
  • Internal communications: Accessible leadership
  • LinkedIn and industry platforms: Thought leadership positioning

One generic headshot can’t optimize for all of these. This is why many executives invest in a portfolio of images for different uses.

The Posing and Expression Strategy

What I coach my executive clients on:

Body Position: Slight angle to the camera (not straight-on), shoulders back but relaxed. Creates dimension and confidence without stiffness.

Facial Expression: Start neutral, then gradually soften into a subtle smile. We capture the range, because different contexts need different energy levels.

Energy: Calm, centered, present. Not performing, not “on.” Just comfortable being yourself at your best.

Why This Matters More Than Ever

In our digital-first world, your headshot often introduces you before you enter the room. It’s on your LinkedIn, your company website, your conference bio, your media mentions.

People are making judgments about your competence, trustworthiness, and leadership ability based on that image. It either reinforces your position or creates doubt.

For executives and senior professionals, your headshot isn’t vanity. It’s strategic communication of your professional brand.

Ready for executive headshots that communicate the leadership presence you’ve earned? I specialize in photography for senior professionals who understand the strategic value of their image. Book your session today.