In a world where so many first impressions happen online, your headshot becomes your digital handshake—and it deserves to feel like you. As a professional photographer based in beautiful Victoria BC, I specialize in natural light, authentic portraits that help you feel confident, relaxed, and seen. Whether you’re a business owner, creative, or professional updating your online presence, your headshot should reflect the real you—approachable, professional, and full of personality.

If you’re wondering how to prep, what to wear, or what it’s actually like to have your photo taken by someone who gets how awkward it can feel—I’ve got you! I direct A LOT during my sessions (so you’re never left wondering what to do with your hands! 🙌), and I’ll guide you every step of the way. You don’t have to be “photogenic” or love being in front of the camera to get photos you love.

Here’s everything you need to know to feel fully prepped and excited about your headshots in Victoria!


📌 Table of Contents

  • Why Professional Headshots Matter
  • What Sets My Headshots Apart
  • Choosing the Right Photographer in Victoria, BC
  • How to Prepare for Your Headshot Session
  • What to Wear (and What to Skip)
  • The Magic of Natural Light & Backgrounds
  • Avoiding Common Mistakes
  • What It’s Like to Shoot with Me
  • Editing, Retouching & Keeping It Real

Why Professional Headshots Matter

If you’re building a personal brand, applying for certain jobs, or launching a new business, a great headshot is no longer optional—it’s your first impression. In many cases, it’s the first thing people see on your website, LinkedIn, or even in your email signature.

A professional headshot shows that you value your work, you take yourself seriously, and you’re ready to connect. It communicates trust, personality, and warmthespecially when it looks and feels genuine. That’s why so many professionals are looking fo customized headshots in Victoria BC to help tell their story.


What Sets My Headshots Apart

I create natural light headshots in outdoor locations around Victoria BC that are authentic and true to you. You won’t find stiff poses or forced smiles here—just connection, gentle direction, and lots of encouragement.

During your session, I’ll guide you through every step. I know that most people don’t love being in front of the camera (you’re not alone!), so I use a mix of gentle prompts, conversation, and specific direction to help you feel relaxed and confident. We’ll laugh, move, and maybe even forget you’re being photographed for a moment—and that’s usually when the magic happens ✨


Choosing the Right Headshot Photographer in Victoria BC

Victoria is full of talented photographers, but choosing the right one for your headshots comes down to personality and style. Look through portfolios to see what resonates with you—do the images feel natural and relaxed? Do the people look like themselves?

If you’re drawn to light-filled photos that feel warm, candid, and a little bit playful, you might love working with me! I care deeply about making the experience feel easy and empowering—not stiff or stressful.

When choosing your photographer, consider:

  • How much direction they give
  • Whether they work with natural light or studio light
  • What’s included in the package
  • Their vibe—because if you connect well, your photos will be better for it

How to Prepare for Your Headshots

Here are a few ways to set yourself up for success:

  • Drink lots of water and get a good night’s rest the night before.
  • Avoid anything stressful right before—give yourself time to breathe.
  • If you’re getting your hair cut, aim for a few days before so it has time to settle.
  • Professional makeup is lovely but optional. I recommend a natural look that still feels like you.

And if you’re not sure how to pose or what expression to use—don’t worry! I’ve got you. I’ll guide you the whole way so you’re never left guessing.


What to Wear (and What to Skip)

You don’t need a whole new wardrobe—just something that makes you feel good. Here are my go-to tips:

  • Choose solid colours that complement your skin tone (jewel tones, earth tones, light colours and neutrals photograph beautifully).
  • Skip busy patterns and logos—they can distract from your face.
  • Bring a couple of options if you’re unsure: maybe one that’s a bit more professional and one that’s casual but still polished.
  • Layer up: blazers, cardigans, or light jackets add interest and versatility.
  • Keep jewelry minimal unless it’s part of your personal brand.

Unsure of what type of headshot you’re aiming for? I recommend browsing on Pinterest and saving the pictures that stand out to you. You can share those with me and I’ll be happy to offer insights and advice!


The Magic of Natural Light & Backgrounds for Headshots in Victoria BC

As a natural light photographer, I’ll plan our session around the best light of the day—often morning or golden hour in the afternoon/evening. That soft, glowy light helps your skin look amazing and creates the relaxed, airy vibe you see in my work.

We’ll shoot in a location that suits the look you want—whether that’s a clean urban backdrop, a neutral wall with great light, or a leafy park setting. I love choosing backgrounds that don’t distract but still add a sense of place and warmth to your headshots in Victoria BC.


Avoiding Common Mistakes

Here’s what you don’t need to worry about:

  • Looking awkward (I’ll guide you)
  • Not knowing what to do with your hands (I’ll tell you)
  • Having the “perfect” outfit or smile (looking approachable and human is awesome)

Instead, focus on:

  • Feeling good in your clothes
  • Staying hydrated and rested
  • Trusting the process (and me!)

What It’s Like to Shoot with Me

Most of my clients start the session saying, “I’m super awkward in front of the camera,” and end it saying, “That was actually really fun!”

I keep things light and easy. I’ll chat with you, give you little prompts, and help you relax into natural expressions and poses. If you’re unsure of what you want, we can try a mix of poses, a few different backgrounds, and I’ll show you previews along the way so you know we’re getting photos you love.

This isn’t about creating a version of you that’s overly polished or posed. It’s about capturing the real you—with warmth, confidence, and heart.


Editing, Retouching & Keeping It Real

After your session, I carefully edit your chosen images to make small refinements—think colour balance, light skin smoothing, or removing the occasional blemish or flyaway hair. I want you to look like your best self on your best day, but never overly retouched or artificial.

If you have preferences or concerns, I’m always happy to chat about editing and make adjustments that feel right to you.


Some Final Thoughts

Your headshot isn’t just a photo—it’s a reflection of who you are and what personality you bring to the table. When it feels like you, people notice. You stand out. You connect. You attract the right clients, employers, or collaborators.

If you’re ready for updated headshots in Victoria BC that feel joyful, natural, and truly reflect who you are, I’d love to work with you!


Interested in booking your headshot session in Victoria BC?
Reach out here! I’d love to hear what you’re working on and help you show up in the best possible light 💕

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I respectfully acknowledge that my place of business is within the ancestral, unsurrendered and unceded Coast Salish Territory of the Lekwungen and W̱SÁNEĆ Nations.

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