The Power of Expression - How Coaching Helps You Look Confident & Approachable
Why Expression Matters in Professional Headshots
Making a great first impression is critical in a city like Dallas, where professionals and businesses thrive. Your headshot isn’t just a picture—it’s a representation of your personal brand. Whether you’re an executive, entrepreneur, or job seeker, how you present yourself in your headshot impacts how others perceive you.
Many people assume that a professional headshot is just about having good lighting, a nice background, and a polished appearance. While those elements matter, your expression is the most important factor in a compelling headshot.
At Godoy Shots, we specialize in expression coaching to help clients appear confident, approachable, and authentic. Minor facial adjustments—like a slight shift in the eyebrows, the curve of a smile, or the position of the chin—can transform a standard headshot into a powerful image that attracts opportunities.
What is Expression Coaching?
Expression coaching is a guided process that helps you fine-tune your facial expressions to project the right message in your headshot. Most people are not naturally comfortable in front of a camera, and without guidance, they might look tense, unsure, or even unapproachable.
Our coaching method ensures that you:
✔ Look relaxed and natural instead of stiff and forced
✔ Project confidence through subtle posture and facial cues
✔ Avoid common mistakes like over-smiling or looking too serious
✔ Capture an expression that feels like “you” at your best
Small Adjustments That Make a Big Impact
One of the most powerful aspects of expression coaching is how small changes create a significant difference. Here are a few key techniques we use at our Dallas studio to refine expressions:
1. Mastering the “Level 2” Smile. Many people struggle to find the right balance between too serious and too smiley in their headshots. We guide clients through different smile levels, helping them achieve a “Level 2” closed-mouth smile—a look that conveys confidence and warmth without appearing forced.
2. The “Turtle Move” for a Strong Jawline. A defined jawline is a game-changer for headshots. One of our most effective tricks is the “Turtle Move”—a subtle forward extension of the neck that enhances jaw definition and prevents a double chin. This simple adjustment instantly improves posture and sharpens the overall look.
3. Using Eye Expressions to Build Connection. The eyes are the most expressive part of your face and play a crucial role in making you look trustworthy and engaging. If your eyes look too wide, you may appear startled. If they’re too close, you might seem disinterested.
We coach clients through micro-adjustments to achieve the right balance, ensuring their eyes appear engaged, confident, and natural.
4. Correcting Tension in Facial Muscles. When people are nervous in front of the camera, their foreheads, eyebrows, and mouths often tense up. We guide clients through small relaxation exercises to release tension, resulting in a calm, self-assured look.
Why This Matters for Dallas Professionals
In Dallas, where networking, business relationships, and corporate branding are highly valued, your headshot plays a key role in how you’re perceived professionally. Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn profile, launching a business, or representing a company, your expression can influence:
➤ First Impressions: People decide within seconds whether they trust someone based on their photo.
➤ Job & Business Opportunities: A confident, approachable headshot can lead to more connections and career growth.
➤ Personal Branding: Your headshot should align with the image you want to project in your industry.
The Psychology Behind Expressions in Photography
Studies show that people subconsciously interpret facial expressions as signals of confidence, warmth, and trustworthiness. In professional settings, a person with a well-balanced, natural smile is more likely to be seen as competent and likable.
Through years of experience, we’ve seen that when clients feel comfortable and guided, their true personality shines through. Expression coaching eliminates the awkwardness, helping professionals connect with their audience through their headshot.
How Our Dallas Headshot Sessions Work
At Godoy Shots, we don’t just take pictures—we coach you to bring out the best version of yourself. Our high-end, in-studio headshot sessions include:
✓ Pre-Session Consultation: Understanding your industry and how you want to be perceived.
✓ Guided Expression Coaching: Real-time adjustments to perfect your smile, eye engagement, and posture.
✓ Refined, Natural Retouching: Enhancing your best features while keeping the image authentic.
✓ Fast, High-Quality Delivery: Your polished headshots, ready to use for LinkedIn, company websites, and marketing.
Client Success Story: James’s Headshot Transformation
James came to us for a fresh headshot as he prepared to take on a new role at a new company. As a financial analyst working with high-net-worth individuals, his image must reflect trust, professionalism, and strong values.
We worked together on subtle yet powerful details:
✔ Expert guidance on head tilt and camera focus
✔ Fine-tuned smile to enhance approachability
✔ Ensured a confident, approachable, and trustworthy expression
The result? A headshot that perfectly reflects his professional persona.
If you're ready for a headshot that reflects your true professional self, we can help!
Final Thoughts: Your Expression = Your Brand
Your headshot is more than just a photo—it’s a visual handshake that introduces you to the world. With the right coaching, small adjustments in smile, posture, and eye engagement can transform your image into one that exudes confidence and approachability.
At Godoy Shots, we specialize in bringing out the best in every client through expert expression coaching. Whether you’re an executive, entrepreneur, or job seeker in Dallas, we’ll guide you to a headshot that helps you make an impact.
Ready to elevate your professional image? Book your personalized headshot session today!
