by Christina Custodio

If you are a writer, a speaker, or dreaming of becoming one, a good headshot is not just a nice extra. It is a must. At the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference, you will have a chance to update your professional photo, and I want to help you make the most of it.

I know getting your picture taken is not always everyone’s favorite thing. But I promise I will make it fun. You might even walk away feeling really good about yourself. It happens more than you think.

Why does a headshot matter? Because your photo is often your first impression. Before someone reads your work or hears you speak, they see your face. A strong, professional headshot helps you build trust, show your personality, and present yourself as someone serious about what you do. Whether it is for a book cover, a speaking event flyer, your website, or your social media, you want a photo that looks like you and puts your best face forward.

Now, I know you wanted to lose a few pounds before your picture was taken. But remember this. The way you look is no accident. God knew exactly how you would look today, tomorrow, and whenever He called you. He created you on purpose, right down to the details. Your face, your smile, your presence. All of it is part of the beautiful message He called you to share. You do not need to change who you are. You just need to show up as the masterpiece He already made. Besides, people will end up seeing you in real life, and you want to look like your picture.

Trust that through the editing process, I will make sure you look like you, on your very best day. However, I would appreciate it if you could do as much as you can to make my job easier.

How to Prepare for Your Headshot at BRMCWC 2026 by Christina Custodio on @BRMCWC #Writing #Writinglife #BRMCWC Share on X

Here are a few simple ways you can prepare.

Wear solid colors or simple patterns. Solid colors photograph beautifully and keep the attention where it belongs. On you. If you want a little pattern, keep it simple and stick to no more than two colors. Busy patterns and loud prints distract and date a photo fast.

Choose outfits with sleeves. Sleeves are your friend in headshots. Sleeveless tops can draw attention away from your face and make a photo feel less balanced. Wearing sleeves, even short ones, keeps the focus on you and gives a more polished look.

Keep jewelry simple. Too much jewelry steals the show, and not in a good way. The goal is for people to focus on your face, not your accessories. Skip the long necklace, too. It will likely get cut off in the picture.

Freshen up. This sounds basic, but it matters. Brush and floss your teeth. Brush your hair. Give yourself a once-over before you step in front of the camera. The little things make a big difference.

Consider wearing makeup. Even if you are not a big makeup person, a little goes a long way under bright lights and high-resolution cameras. Light foundation, a little powder to cut the shine, mascara, and some lip color help your features stand out. You will still look like yourself.

Choose outfits that feel like you. You want your headshot to represent who you are. Pick clothes that make you feel confident and comfortable. If you feel good, it will show in your photos.

Get some rest. Easier said than done at a conference. I know. But try to get some good sleep the night before. A rested face is a vibrant face.

Your headshot should look like you. Not the version of you that feels like you have to be somebody else. Your story, your voice, and your calling are worth showing up for. Let’s make sure your photo shows the world the beautiful person behind the words.

I cannot wait to see and capture your face at Blue Ridge!

To Schedule Your Headshot Click Here!