In today’s digital-first business world, your image matters. Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn profile, shooting for your company’s website, or prepping for a team photo, the right pose can say a lot before you even speak.
Not a model? No worries. These 5 easy corporate headshot poses are designed to be simple, professional, and universally flattering, even for people who say, “I’m awkward in front of a camera.”
Let’s break them down.
1. Seated with Hands on Lap or Desk
This classic pose is a go-to for professionals looking to convey calm confidence and approachability. Sitting down instantly relaxes the body, making it easier to maintain good posture without stiffness. Placing hands gently on your lap or resting them naturally on a desk in front of you creates a grounded, composed look that feels both professional and personable.
Whether you’re in a blazer or business-casual attire, this pose complements most wardrobe choices and backgrounds, making it incredibly versatile.
Perfect for: Bio pages, interviews, and corporate website headshots.
2. Hand on Chin (The Thinker)
This thoughtful pose is a subtle yet powerful way to communicate intelligence, strategy, and depth. By placing one hand gently near or under the chin, you immediately draw focus to the face, particularly the eyes, while adding a sense of intention to the image.
The key to making this pose work is to keep it light and natural. Paired with direct eye contact or a slight smile, this pose can exude quiet confidence without feeling staged.
Perfect for professionals who want to appear both approachable and thoughtful, this pose is a great choice when you’re looking to stand out with subtle sophistication.
Perfect for: Consultants, strategists, or creatives.
3. Leaning on a Surface (Relaxed Authority)
Looking to strike the perfect balance between confidence and approachability? The “Leaning on a Surface” pose is your answer. Whether it’s leaning on a wall or the edge of a desk, this pose gives a sense of grounded authority while keeping the vibe casual and relatable.
This pose also adds a dynamic element to your photo, the angles created by your body and the surface you’re leaning on bring visual interest, which helps your headshot stand out. Depending on your outfit and expression, it can range from cool and confident to warm and welcoming.
Perfect for: Lifestyle shoots, business casual brands, and creative industries.
4. Hands in Pockets (Casual Confidence)
The timeless Hands in Pockets look. It’s effortlessly stylish, laid-back, and subtly self-assured, perfect for professionals who want to convey confidence without feeling too posed or stiff.
This pose works so well because it naturally relaxes the body. The moment your hands are in your pockets, your shoulders drop, your posture eases up, and your expression tends to follow suit. The result? A photo that feels genuine, confident, and approachable all at once.
Perfect for: Business casual teams, tech startups, or anyone looking to soften the “suit-and-tie” vibe.
5. Using Props (Laptop, Book, Coffee Mug)
Incorporating props into your corporate headshots can add storytelling and personality without sacrificing professionalism. Whether it’s a laptop, a favorite book, or a simple coffee mug, these items give your photo a lifestyle feel, making it more relatable and authentic.
The key is to keep it natural. Don’t overdo the interaction, a light hold, a casual sip, or having the item just within frame can do the trick. It’s not about showcasing the prop, it’s about using it to support the message you’re trying to send: that you’re confident, competent, and approachable.
Perfect for: Candid shots, coworking environments, or brand photography.
Let’s Make It Happen
When it comes to corporate headshots, the right pose can make all the difference, from seated confidence and thoughtful expressions to relaxed stances and purposeful props. These simple yet powerful positions help convey who you are as a professional, without saying a word.
And if you’re not sure what works best for you, that’s perfectly okay.
At White Room Studio, we believe great headshots come from a mix of expert guidance and helping you feel at ease. Our photographers are not only skilled with lighting and composition, but also experienced in gently directing you through each pose so nothing feels forced or awkward.
Whether it’s your first shoot or you’re simply updating your portfolio, we’ll be there to support you every step of the way, making sure you look and feel your best.
Just come as you are, we’ll take care of the rest.
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This November, we’re running an exclusive Instagram giveaway and you could win a free corporate photoshoot with White Room Studio.
Follow us on Instagram to stay updated and join the giveaway when it drops! Don’t miss your chance to elevate your professional image for free.
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“I had a really enjoyable time doing the photo shoot at White Room Studio. Justin was my photographer. He was friendly and easy going, yet very professional. He encouraged me to try different poses but also gave me directions on how I could make slight tweaks to improve my shot. I really appreciated how he took the time to understand my professional and personal journey, pivoting from a corporate warrior to a mumprenuer. Thank you Justin and the White Room Studio team for making me feel really comfortable in front of the camera! Most importantly, the pictures from the shoot really captured the essence of what I wanted in my portraits.”
– Yvonne Low
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