THE HEADSHOT JOURNAL · DALLAS–FORT WORTH
The Power of Expression: What to Look for in a Headshot Photographer
A closer look at the guidance behind professional headshots—and the small differences you can explore during a studio session.
Small adjustments. Different expressions. Two portraits of Gordon photographed during a Godoy Shots studio session.
When you compare professional headshots, look closely at what changes from one photograph to the next. The lighting and clothing may stay similar while a small adjustment in expression changes which image you prefer.
Gordon’s portraits above offer an example. In one, his mouth is more neutral. In the other, the corners lift into a slightly fuller smile. His head position also shifts. Both are options we can discuss in relation to his preferences and the places the photographs might appear.
This is part of what I help clients explore at our Farmers Branch studio. Expression coaching gives you specific direction while you are being photographed, followed by an opportunity to see the results and respond. You can make decisions with photographs in front of you.
What changes when someone guides your expression?
A request to “look confident” can leave you wondering what to do with your face. During a guided headshot session, I give you something more specific to work with: a small change in head position, a shift in posture, or a different way to approach your smile.
We review the images as we work. You may like an expression immediately, or you may recognize something that feels unfamiliar. That feedback helps me adjust the direction. The process is a conversation, and your preferences help shape it.
A closed-mouth expression and a broad smile can both belong in a professional collection. We consider what you respond to and what suits the intended use. There is no single smile that every executive should wear.
For a closer explanation of the process, read how expression coaching and live image review work.
Look for consistency across different clients
If you are choosing a professional headshot photographer in Dallas, review more than one favorite photograph. Look through a range of clients and consider whether you like the treatment of expressions, lighting, and retouching throughout the portfolio.
Pay attention to whether people have room for individual expression. A photographer’s recognizable style can still accommodate different faces, clothing, and preferences. Ask yourself whether you can imagine working within that approach and using the finished photographs in your professional life.
A portfolio shows the results. Asking about the session helps you understand how the photographer works toward them.
Ask what the guidance will involve
Before booking, it is reasonable to ask who will photograph you, how you will receive direction, and when you will see the images. If being photographed makes you uncomfortable, explain what concerns you. The answer should help you picture the experience.
Useful questions include:
- How will you guide my expression and posture during the session?
- Will we review the photographs while we work?
- Can we explore different expressions, clothing, or framing?
- How will you help me select images, and what does each purchase include?
At Godoy Shots, I work directly with individual studio clients through coaching, live review, and selection. We discuss what you need the photographs for and compare the options together. You can explore our Essential and Signature session details before choosing an appointment.
Trevor’s experience with coaching
In the Google review he shared after his session, Trevor described the direction he received and the experience of working together:
“He helped me identify areas where my facial posing could be enhanced and honestly provides a service that not just "anyone with a camera" can provide; the level of service he provides is truly remarkable.”— Trevor Kavanaugh, Google review excerpt
His words describe his own experience. They also point to something useful to look for when reading reviews: specific comments about the direction, communication, and support a client received.
Choose photographs around where you will use them
During selection, we consider your LinkedIn profile, company biography, speaking materials, and other professional needs. The way a photograph is framed can matter as much as a small difference in expression. A portrait that works in a small profile circle may serve a different purpose from a wider image in a presentation.
I help you compare similar frames and identify what each selected image contributes. If you need several options, we can plan a professional visual library around those uses.
You do not need to arrive knowing how to pose or which expression you should choose. Bring your intended uses and any requirements from your organization. We will work through the photographic choices together.
About Nabor Godoy
Nabor Godoy is a professional headshot and portrait photographer at Godoy Shots Photography in Farmers Branch, serving Dallas–Fort Worth. He is a Headshot Crew Associate Photographer and works directly with clients through expression coaching, live image review, and collaborative image selection. Read what his Associate designation means for your session.
Create a portrait you feel comfortable using.
Explore guided individual sessions at our Farmers Branch studio.