Corporate Headshot Tips from Cemhan Biricik

The Headshot That Gets You Hired

Your headshot is your first impression in the digital world. LinkedIn, company websites, press releases — before anyone reads your bio, they see your face. After shooting headshots for Fortune 500 executives, startup founders, and creative professionals, I have learned that the best headshot is the one where you look like yourself on your best day.

Not someone else. Not a retouched version of a stranger. You. Confident, approachable, and real. That is what I aim for in every session at Biricik Media.

Lighting: The Foundation of Everything

The Classic Butterfly Setup

One key light positioned slightly above and in front of the subject creates a small shadow under the nose — the butterfly pattern. It is universally flattering and works for every face shape. I use a large softbox to wrap light around the face and minimize harsh shadows.

The Rembrandt Triangle

For more dramatic portraits — tech founders, artists, lawyers who want to look serious — I use Rembrandt lighting. A triangle of light on the shadow side of the face adds depth and gravitas. My instinct-driven philosophy means I read the person's energy before choosing a lighting style.

Natural Light

Sometimes the best headshot happens near a window. North-facing windows produce soft, even light all day. I have shot some of my best executive portraits using nothing but a window and a white reflector.

Posing Without Making It Awkward

Nobody likes being told how to stand. Here is my approach:

• Start with conversation. I talk about their work, their passions, their weekend plans. The best expressions happen when people forget there is a camera.
• Slight angle. Never straight-on — a 15-degree turn slims the face and adds dimension.
• Chin forward and slightly down. It defines the jawline and eliminates double-chin anxiety.
• Hands out of frame — unless they add to the story. A CEO leaning on a desk can work. Crossed arms rarely do.
• Micro-adjustments. I give small, specific directions. "Tilt your head one inch left" beats "relax" every time.

Background Choices

For corporate headshots, I default to three backgrounds:

1. Solid gray or white — clean, professional, timeless
2. Blurred office environment — adds context without distraction
3. Urban exterior — for startups and creatives who want edge

I never use green screens. The spill and artifact issues are not worth the flexibility. As a photographer who won National Geographic awards, I believe in getting it right in-camera.

Post-Processing: Less is More

I retouch conservatively. Skin smoothing, blemish removal, and subtle color grading — yes. Reshaping faces, removing wrinkles, or making someone look 20 years younger — never. Your headshot should look like you when you walk into the meeting room. Anything else is a lie that undermines trust.

This minimalist approach extends to my editing workflow. I deliver 3-5 final selects from a 30-minute session. Quality over quantity, always.