Some of my clients feel hesitant about using bright colours for a headshot or a Personal Branding photo shooting, as they can be difficult to work with and may not always be appropriate for the intended purpose of the image. However, it's important to keep in mind that the use of bright colours can also create a unique and eye-catching image that stands out from more traditional headshots. As example how to use the bright colour in a good way let me introduce you my client Cecile.
We met in Tokyo to discuss her professional project including her new podcast. Cecile had recently moved to Japan and she wanted to update her image to better reflect her current situation and life changes.
LET'S SPEAK ABOUT
BRIGHT COLOuRS FOR
A PHOTO SHOOTing
and how to pop out
your image with
a colour
Cecile wanted to be photographed in a traditional Japanese environment. She wanted to make clear for her followers that she moved to Japan and that her life has dramatically changed!
That is why for her photoshoot we chose a red
color as a bright accent which is here to deliver
an important message.
We also chose the Torii gate for the background because ⛩️ is considered to be one of the most recognisable symbol of Japan.
Last but not least - red Torii is a spiritual gate to a sacred territory. Which can deliver another message about Cecile because she is a coach of the coaches and somehow provide the access to the inner world of the person.
As you can see, the bright red colour works perfectly here. However, it is important to coordinate with the background and ensure that the colour of clothes and accessories match.
Here we use neutral white clothes to balance the active red.
It is also important to keep all the images of the photo series in harmony.
That is why I found another location with red background as a second spot for this photoshoot. That is why all the photo series look in one style and one colour accent - red.
OVERALL, THE USE OF BRIGHT COLOuRS IN A PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOT CAN BE APPROPRIATE AS LONG AS IT IS DONE TASTEFULLY AND IN LINE WITH THE INTENDED PURPOSE OF THE IMAGE.
So if you are still thinking, I have decided for my Personal Branding photoshoots bright colours can be used! To add a pop of colour and personality to the image. However, it is important to use them appropriately and in moderation to avoid appearing too distracting or unprofessional.
If you are planning to use bright colours in a professional headshot, consider the following tips:
Use bright colours sparingly:
If you are planning to use bright colours in a headshot/Personal Branding shot, it is best to use them sparingly.
For example, you can incorporate a bright accessory or a colourful blouse into an otherwise neutral outfit.
Consider the industry:
The use of bright colours can be more appropriate in certain industries than others. For example, a creative industry like advertising or fashion may be more accepting of bright colours, while a more conservative industry like law or finance may prefer a more classic and subdued look.
Coordinate with the background:
When using bright colours, it is important to ensure that they complement the background and do not clash with it.
For example, if the background is a neutral gray, you may want to avoid wearing a bright green top as it could clash with the background.
do not loose the subject:
The colours and other accents are good and important to use but the main subject for the business photography is a person. So it is important to keep an accent on the personality and not to loose the person in the symphony of colours.
