New Realtor Headshots: Is It Time For An Update?

Getting an update to your Real Estate headshot can be super helpful to keep your look fresh and current. However, there are many factors to consider. What suits your personality? Who is your audience? How do you market yourself? How often should I update my photo?

This post will hopefully help you figure that out and decide when and if it’s time to refresh your look.

Location, Location, Location!

The old adage for home-buying is just as true for your Realtor portrait. The first question I always ask is: Do you want to shoot in studio or on location? If you’re paying attention, you may notice a pretty even split between studio headshots and outdoor photos. And you’d be right! Back in the day, I think a professional studio portrait was more common, but nowadays, it’s very common to see greenery and natural light as the background rather than studio lighting. When trying to decide which is right for you, consider the following:

• Studio backgrounds tend to give your portrait a more formal look. It shows you mean business, but without environmental context it’s not as easy to convey personality. Thus, if you are in commercial real estate, or have more business-minded buyers, this may be the choice for you.
• Outdoor photos tend to have a more casual, relaxed vibe. Outdoor light is tricker to work with, so I will help you you choose the right time of day and select a spot that fits your image.
• In-home headshots can be a good option too! If you have access to a classy property with good light, this can really drive home the idea that you are an agent and this is a place you can sell.

What should I wear?

Similar to the notes about location, the goal is to come off professional, knowledgeable, and friendly. So again – depending on your audience, you may wish to dress more formally or more casually. A full business suit is usually a little ‘much’, but I’ve definitely seen people pull it off very well, especially if the photo is for commercial real estate. At the other end of the spectrum, you don’t want to go too casual or your buyers may not take you seriously. However — all of this is dependent on your personality and your market… and some rules are made to be broken! 

So… is it time to update my photo?

I’ve heard from agents about the ‘5 year rule’, which I think is solid. If it’s been over 5 years since your last professional portrait, it’s almost certainly time for an update. I have some clients who shoot like clockwork once a year. If you can afford this, and don’t despise having your picture taken, I would recommend, as it keeps your look fresh and gives you options when promoting yourself. If you’re posting regularly on social media, or use your image frequently in marketing materials, it keeps things from getting stale. Today’s world moves quickly, and this is one way to keep up!

Another reason to update would be if you need more branding content for marketing materials. I’ve been seeing a lot more Realtors who need a midrange or full body shot for flyers, banners, websites and brochures.

How can I help?

If you’re still undecided, I’m here to help! Luckily, my studio is in an amazing location where I can get both in-studio photos as well as outdoor environmental photos, often even in a half-hour shoot! So if you come to me, we can get a combination of looks quite easily. And I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that I can come to you, too. In fact, I frequently will photograph an entire Real Estate team at their office, at my studio, or outdoors – all at once. This is always a great idea because not only will everyone on the team have a new photo to work with; you can also get a team photo together!

PS: If you’ve read this far, you may have realized… the info in this post is not just for Real Estate agents. These headshot tips apply to many other industries, including, insurance, mortgage brokers, attorneys and consultants. Reach out to us today if you would like more info or to book a session!