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By Lynette Eason @LynetteEason

Hi everyone, this is Lynette Eason here with my photographer hat on. You might have read the title of this post, and if you know what I write (romantic suspense), then you might have been a little worried. Well, let me put your fears at ease. I’m talking photography! I’m so excited that I get to be the conference photographer this year. Yes, I’m teaching a class where I’ll talk about shooting characters, but for now, let’s talk about shooting headshots—with a camera.

[tweet_box design=”default” float=”none” inject=”#BRMCWC #Writing #WritingCommunity”]Why Writers Need A Professional Headshot by @LynetteEason on @BRMCWC[/tweet_box]

Your headshot is your first exposure to possible agents or editors, whether that’s on your website or a one sheet or a business card. It’s proof that you take yourself seriously and are willing to invest in your career. Now, I understand that most people don’t enjoy getting their picture taken, but by trusting a professional to use correct lighting, instruct on poses that flatter, etc., you can walk away with pictures you’re proud of. 

“But,” you say, “my friend takes great pictures with her iphone. Why shouldn’t I just let her do it?”

Well, read through these other reasons why you should invest in a professional headshot.

1. Because…it’s professional. I know I’ve thrown that word around quite a bit, but it’s the truth. People looking to work with you will see first-hand that you take yourself and your career seriously. A professional headshot shows you care. And if you care about looking professional for a potential employer (editor/publisher/agent) then the message you’re sending is that you’re going to care about doing a great job for whoever you work for.
2. Another thing a professional headshot can do is make sure that your picture reflects your personality.
3. When you’re in the writing community, networking and building relationships are huge factors. A professional headshot reminds people of who you are. When you meet with an editor or agent—or both— at a conference and have work requested by them, having the headshot on your social media and other avenues allows them to immediately pinpoint who you are and takes them back to that meeting—which was hopefully a good one! And most likely was if they requested to see more. ☺
4. A current headshot eliminates surprises. Your headshot needs to show people what you look like right now. If you have a headshot on your social media pages, your one sheet, or business card from five years ago and you looked completely different, then you need to update. When someone sees a picture of you—that you’re advertising as current—and then they meet you in person and you don’t look like your picture, it can be an immediate disconnect, and possibly send a message of dishonesty.
5. And finally, a headshot taken by someone who knows what they’re doing simply gives you confidence. Wear your favorite outfit, take time to fix your hair. Ladies, have someone do your makeup for you (this is not mandatory, just a suggestion—and it’s fun!) Guys, get a haircut, shave or trim your facial hair. Do whatever it takes to feel like you look your best and you will love your headshot.

Having said all that, I’d love to take that headshot for you. If you will follow the link below, you can sign up to meet me at the conference we’ll make sure you walk away with images that you love. Just for conferees, I’m offering five edited poses for $100. This also includes a print release which means you have full use of the photos. This allows you to use them however you like. Social media, book covers, blog posts, etc. We can do them indoors in a studio environment, or head outside as long as the weather cooperates, to take advantage of that beautiful natural light. All I ask is that you arrive five minutes early for your appointment to take care of all the bookkeeping things, then we will jump right into the pictures. I look forward to seeing you!

The link to sign up:

https://companyname56028.hbportal.co/schedule/6228b728ef59d6003549e8e8

Lynette Eason is an author who writes for her full time job, so you might say she’s naturally creative. However, sitting behind the computer day after day, hour after hour, was getting really old. So, she decided she needed a hobby. Lynette picked up a camera and the rest is history. For over two years now, when she hasn’t been writing or taking care of her family, she’s been focused on learning the craft. Lynette has attended workshops and conferences and learned from the best. Now, it’s time for her to step out and share with others all that she’s been learning. She is married to Jack Eason and they have two grown (mostly) children. They live in Simpsonville, SC.