If you’ve been searching for a Vancouver headshot photographer who creates images that feel modern, natural, and confident—not stiff or overly corporate—you’re in the right place. Headshots have changed dramatically over the last few years. Today, people want portraits that feel professional and approachable, elevated but still true to who they are.

Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn profile, refreshing your website, or stepping into a new season in your career, this guide will help you understand what to expect, how to prepare, and how to get headshots that genuinely represent you.

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1. What Makes a Modern Headshot? (A Vancouver Headshot Photographer Explains)

Headshots used to feel stiff, posed, and overly formal. Modern headshots are different—they’re warm, natural, and focused on authenticity.

A modern headshot should feel:

• confident but not rigid

• warm but still professional

• clean and minimal

• true to your personality

• polished but not overly retouched

As a Vancouver headshot photographer, my goal is always to create portraits that reflect your unique personality and the message you want to share professionally. Whether you’re a business owner, creative, corporate professional, or entrepreneur, the feel of your headshot matters.

Internal link suggestion: link “modern headshots” to your Portraits/Headshots Portfolio.

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2. Choosing Between Studio Headshots & Outdoor Headshots

One of the first decisions you’ll make is whether to choose a Vancouver photo studio or an outdoor location for your session. Both create beautiful results, but they communicate different things.

Studio Headshots (Clean, Timeless, Professional)

Studio-based headshots offer:

• consistent lighting

• a polished, editorial feel

• a clean, neutral background

• no weather risk

• a timeless look that suits any industry

These sessions are ideal if you want something elevated, minimalistic, or aligned with traditional corporate expectations.

Outdoor Headshots (Approachable, Natural, Lifestyle-Driven)

Outdoor sessions offer:

• natural, softer light

• a relaxed, approachable feel

• environmental elements that reflect your brand

• movement and variation

These are great for creatives, entrepreneurs, and people who want a more lifestyle-oriented look.

Both options work beautifully—it just depends on what you want your headshot to communicate.

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3. What to Wear for Your Headshot Session (Advice From a Vancouver Headshot Photographer)

Your wardrobe has a huge impact on the final feel of your portraits. The goal is to choose clothing that feels like you, photographs well, and supports the impression you want to create.

Wear:

• solid colours

• soft neutrals or rich tones

• simple silhouettes

• minimal patterns

• clean, well-fitting pieces

• layers or textures

Avoid:

• busy prints

• overly bright colours

• clothing that doesn’t feel comfortable

• logos

• overly trendy items that date quickly

For women, subtle jewellery can elevate the look. For men, a fitted shirt or layered look works beautifully.

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4. How to Pose Naturally (You Don’t Have to Know What to Do)

If posing makes you nervous, you’re not alone. Most clients tell me, “I never know what to do with my hands,” or, “I always look awkward in photos.”

My job is to guide you through:

• flattering angles

• natural posture

• placement of hands

• genuine expressions

• subtle movement

• relaxed shoulders

• poses that feel confident, not forced

As a Vancouver headshot photographer, I use gentle direction and micro-prompts to help you look natural and at ease. You never have to figure it out on your own.

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5. Expressions That Photograph Well (Hint: It’s Not Just

 One Smile)

You don’t need to smile in every photo. In fact, a strong headshot gallery usually includes:

• soft smiles

• warm, natural expressions

• confident, neutral expressions

• slightly serious/introspective looks

• more energetic smiling portraits

This gives you options for different platforms—LinkedIn, your website, speaking engagements, media features, and personal branding.

Every expression communicates something different, and as your photographer, I guide you through each one.

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6. Retouching Should Be Subtle (Never Overdone)

Retouching isn’t about changing how you look—it’s about refining the final image so you feel confident using it everywhere.

My retouching style includes:

• softening under-eye shadows

• evening skin tone

• reducing temporary blemishes

• refining stray hairs

• removing lint or distractions

What I don’t do:

• drastically alter facial features

• blur skin

• make you look like a different person

Your headshots should look like you on your best day—polished, natural, and professional.

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7. How to Choose the Right Vancouver Headshot Photographer

Not all headshot photographers shoot the same way, and your choice will influence how you feel during the session and the final result.

Look for a photographer who:

• understands how to pose a variety of body types

• uses soft, flattering light

• creates modern, natural images

• communicates clearly

• offers both studio and outdoor options

• provides guidance throughout

Most importantly, choose someone whose work feels natural and timeless—images you’ll still love years from now.

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8. What Happens After Your Session?

After your session, you’ll receive:

• a beautifully edited gallery

• a curated selection of your strongest images

• consistent tones and professional retouching

• digital files ready for LinkedIn, websites, print, and social media

Your headshots should support your career, your confidence, and your next big step—whatever that may be.

Book your headshot session here.

About Kelly

Kelly Warkentin is a Vancouver portrait photographer specializing in timeless family imagery, modern headshots, and connection-led storytelling. With a warm, editorial-inspired style and a gentle, guided approach, Kelly creates portraits that feel effortless, authentic, and beautifully refined. She photographs families and professionals throughout Vancouver and the Fraser Valley.