Portrait vs Headshot
We realize we’ve been throwing around the words Headshot and Portrait a lot recently, without defining either of them. While some people believe the names to be interchangeable, they are actually two very different forms of photography. Today we’ll give you a quick overview of some of the distinctions.
Photo Composition
As we talk about photo composition, we are talking about how we place the subjects of the photo. Basically, how all of the visual elements are coming together.
Headshots are close-ups on one subject. These photos tend to show one’s head and shoulders, along with a white, or neutral, background and not much more. Usually shot in either a studio or onsite (ie. a business office), the purpose of the neutral background is to avoid any distraction in order make the subject stand out with an air of professionalism and confidence.
Portraits on the other hand are usually further back, showing ¾ or full body images. The background tends to be more colorful and add to the story the photo is telling rather than just provide a neutral background. Portraits contain one subject, or many, such as a family portrait. They can be a little more complex to arrange, but as a Pittsburgh portrait photographer I am trained and have been doing them for years. I will help you create the perfect photo to tell your story.
Facial Expressions
Facial expressions show different emotions, adding different tones, based on the goals of the photo.
In headshots, you want the subject to look approachable yet confident. Our headshot photographers will help you find the facial expression that works for you in order to achieve this look.
When it comes to portraits, your facial expression might really be anything. Your goal would be to match the story you are telling with the photo.
Photo Purpose
The goals of the two photos are the biggest distinction. Here is where you will determine which type of photo is right for you.
Headshots are created and used mainly for the use of business, to create an image for yourself. Where might you use them? Anywhere you are representing yourself, either as a brand, or your career.
Company Website
Social Media Marketing platforms (Instagram, Facebook, twitter)
Business Cards
Professional profile pictures (Facebook, LinkedIn)
Certain professions, such as i.e. actors, will use them as a part of a resume.
Portraits are more so used as a storytelling method. They tend to get used in more creative environments, such as magazines. Portraits get used more frequently on a personal level as well. You might have them hanging in your house, or in a family album in your living room.
Jen Barker Worley Photography
555 Grant Street, Suite 337 Offices at the William Penn Pittsburgh, PA 15219
https://jenworley.com
412-370-4520
What perfect summer outfits! I know most of us haven’t been dressing up as we probably should. But maybe it’s time to take an alfresco break with family, and embrace a little fashion excursion, like this family team!Models and Fashion consultant: @elisabethleach31 @sammileachh#womenentrepreneurs #Smallbusiness #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghheadshots #headshots #headshotcrew #downtownpittsburgh #pittsburghcreative #412project #steelcity #capturedpgh #Lovepgh #burghsnap #headshotphotographer #pghcreative #fashion #pittsburghfashion #womenowned
Aug 3
What perfect summer outfits! I know most of us haven’t been dressing up as we probably should. But maybe it’s time to take an alfresco break with family, and embrace a little fashion excursion, like this family team! Models and Fashion consultant: @elisabethleach31 @sammileachh #womenentrepreneurs #Smallbusiness #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghheadshots #headshots #headshotcrew #downtownpittsburgh #pittsburghcreative #412project #steelcity #capturedpgh #Lovepgh #burghsnap #headshotphotographer #pghcreative #fashion #pittsburghfashion #womenowned
I never truly appreciated how cool the front doors to the William Penn are. I appreciate my studio being located inside, and how awesome the guys in OmniWP security have been to support our business during this weird time.Since things are pretty quiet downtown, I can slow down and enjoy simple things that I barely noticed before.Like the awesome front doors. And the embossed profile under each window, which I’m assuming is Mr. William Penn. But it could be George Washington for all I know.Model: @sammileachh Fashion consultant: @elisabethleach31#womenentrepreneurs #Smallbusiness #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghheadshots #headshots #headshotcrew #downtownpittsburgh #pittsburghcreative #412project #steelcity #capturedpgh #Lovepgh #burghsnap #headshotphotographer #pghcreative #fashion #pittsburghfashion #womenowned
Jul 31
I never truly appreciated how cool the front doors to the William Penn are. I appreciate my studio being located inside, and how awesome the guys in OmniWP security have been to support our business during this weird time. Since things are pretty quiet downtown, I can slow down and enjoy simple things that I barely noticed before. Like the awesome front doors. And the embossed profile under each window, which I’m assuming is Mr. William Penn. But it could be George Washington for all I know. Model: @sammileachh Fashion consultant: @elisabethleach31 #womenentrepreneurs #Smallbusiness #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghheadshots #headshots #headshotcrew #downtownpittsburgh #pittsburghcreative #412project #steelcity #capturedpgh #Lovepgh #burghsnap #headshotphotographer #pghcreative #fashion #pittsburghfashion #womenowned
If you were to ask me about fashion... come on, if you’ve seen any photos of me on here you would know not to ask me about fashion. 🤣However, I was able to do a fun little personal project/networking promotional shoot recently.Lifestyle fashion is not something I’ve delved into before. But when I was approached about this project, I was all about the professional urban feel. Model: Fashion consultant and entrepreneur @elisabethleach31 #womenentrepreneurs #Smallbusiness #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghheadshots #headshots #headshotcrew #downtownpittsburgh #pittsburghcreative #412project #steelcity #capturedpgh #Lovepgh #burghsnap #headshotphotographer #pghcreative #fashion #pittsburghfashion #womenowned
Jul 30
If you were to ask me about fashion... come on, if you’ve seen any photos of me on here you would know not to ask me about fashion. 🤣 However, I was able to do a fun little personal project/networking promotional shoot recently. Lifestyle fashion is not something I’ve delved into before. But when I was approached about this project, I was all about the professional urban feel. Model: Fashion consultant and entrepreneur @elisabethleach31 #womenentrepreneurs #Smallbusiness #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghheadshots #headshots #headshotcrew #downtownpittsburgh #pittsburghcreative #412project #steelcity #capturedpgh #Lovepgh #burghsnap #headshotphotographer #pghcreative #fashion #pittsburghfashion #womenowned
So I’m totally cheating on this by re-posting my profile pic, but hey, I’m going to claim that counts as “Challenge Accepted.”I’m usually not on the challenges bandwagon, but when @elisabethleach31 DM’d me, the beautiful B&W photos of all different women on the hashtags were inspiring.So, woman to women, you’ve all been challenged by me to do the same. Tag me when you do. 😉 Or not. Or whatever. 🤣#womensupportingwomen #womeninspiringwomen
Jul 28
So I’m totally cheating on this by re-posting my profile pic, but hey, I’m going to claim that counts as “Challenge Accepted.” I’m usually not on the challenges bandwagon, but when @elisabethleach31 DM’d me, the beautiful B&W photos of all different women on the hashtags were inspiring. So, woman to women, you’ve all been challenged by me to do the same. Tag me when you do. 😉 Or not. Or whatever. 🤣 #womensupportingwomen #womeninspiringwomen
Our women entrepreneurs. Whether an international corporation, or a micro company, I love working with these professionals. But yeah I’m partial. (Just kidding. Of course I’m here for the guys too.)It was a pleasure working with you Kim @themodernsteward#womenentrepreneurs #Smallbusiness #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghheadshots #headshots #headshotcrew #downtownpittsburgh #pittsburghcreative #412project #steelcity #capturedpgh #Lovepgh #burghsnap #headshotphotographer #pghcreative #pittsburghhealth #microbusinesses #womenowned
Jul 23
Our women entrepreneurs. Whether an international corporation, or a micro company, I love working with these professionals. But yeah I’m partial. (Just kidding. Of course I’m here for the guys too.) It was a pleasure working with you Kim @themodernsteward #womenentrepreneurs #Smallbusiness #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghheadshots #headshots #headshotcrew #downtownpittsburgh #pittsburghcreative #412project #steelcity #capturedpgh #Lovepgh #burghsnap #headshotphotographer #pghcreative #pittsburghhealth #microbusinesses #womenowned
Adaptability. My second of seven pillars of happiness.We can’t think that the fallout from Covid won’t alter many aspects of our life for years to come.So if you can’t change that fact, what can you do? One cannot fight the wind. We must adapt to stride confidently forward.You can’t change people who judge you on your appearance. As a woman, I have learned to adapt. And adapting doesn’t mean “giving in”, or resigning yourself to people’s perceptions of you. It means learning how to use seemingly unfavorable situations thrust upon you to your benefit. And thriving.#pillarsofhappiness #corporateleader #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghheadshots #headshots #headshotcrew #downtownpittsburgh #pittsburghcreative #adaptable #412project #steelcity #capturedpgh #identity #headshotphotographer #pghcreative #entrepreneur #corporate #executive #execs
Jul 21
Adaptability. My second of seven pillars of happiness. We can’t think that the fallout from Covid won’t alter many aspects of our life for years to come. So if you can’t change that fact, what can you do? One cannot fight the wind. We must adapt to stride confidently forward. You can’t change people who judge you on your appearance. As a woman, I have learned to adapt. And adapting doesn’t mean “giving in”, or resigning yourself to people’s perceptions of you. It means learning how to use seemingly unfavorable situations thrust upon you to your benefit. And thriving. #pillarsofhappiness #corporateleader #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghheadshots #headshots #headshotcrew #downtownpittsburgh #pittsburghcreative #adaptable #412project #steelcity #capturedpgh #identity #headshotphotographer #pghcreative #entrepreneur #corporate #executive #execs
What a team! I love taking group photos, and the challenge that comes from working within parameters, and especially during the time of Covid.But mostly, my goal is to make each individual shine as unique in the group. And to make the whole look like the capable, confident and cool people that they truly are.I appreciate working with Myah and her team on this, especially with them being patient with my months of shutdown, and as we figured out how we could take a socially-distanced cool group photo. Which meant keeping all them distanced, even though they needed a photo all together. Mission accomplished.#Finance #wealth #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghheadshots #headshots #headshotcrew #downtownpittsburgh #pittsburghcreative #412project #steelcity #capturedpgh #burghsnap #headshotphotographer #pghcreative #pittsburghhealth #corporate #executives
Jul 15
What a team! I love taking group photos, and the challenge that comes from working within parameters, and especially during the time of Covid. But mostly, my goal is to make each individual shine as unique in the group. And to make the whole look like the capable, confident and cool people that they truly are. I appreciate working with Myah and her team on this, especially with them being patient with my months of shutdown, and as we figured out how we could take a socially-distanced cool group photo. Which meant keeping all them distanced, even though they needed a photo all together. Mission accomplished. #Finance #wealth #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghheadshots #headshots #headshotcrew #downtownpittsburgh #pittsburghcreative #412project #steelcity #capturedpgh #burghsnap #headshotphotographer #pghcreative #pittsburghhealth #corporate #executives
Being comfortable with who you are is one of the seven pillars of happiness.You caught me: I have no idea what the seven pillars of happinesses are. Sorry if it looked like I was headed somewhere profound. Was that something that the Lawrence of Arabia guy wrote? Buddhist maybe? I could Google it, but think I’d rather come up with my own 7.So maybe I’ll do this thing then. Jen’s 7 Pillars of Happiness. Pillar #1, in no particular order: Be Comfortable with Who you Are.#pillarsofhappiness #corporateleader #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghheadshots #headshots #headshotcrew #downtownpittsburgh #pittsburghcreative #comfortable #412project #steelcity #capturedpgh #identity #headshotphotographer #pghcreative #Chiefqualityofficer #regulatorofficer #corporate #executive #execs
Jul 7
Being comfortable with who you are is one of the seven pillars of happiness. You caught me: I have no idea what the seven pillars of happinesses are. Sorry if it looked like I was headed somewhere profound. Was that something that the Lawrence of Arabia guy wrote? Buddhist maybe? I could Google it, but think I’d rather come up with my own 7. So maybe I’ll do this thing then. Jen’s 7 Pillars of Happiness. Pillar #1, in no particular order: Be Comfortable with Who you Are. #pillarsofhappiness #corporateleader #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghheadshots #headshots #headshotcrew #downtownpittsburgh #pittsburghcreative #comfortable #412project #steelcity #capturedpgh #identity #headshotphotographer #pghcreative #Chiefqualityofficer #regulatorofficer #corporate #executive #execs
Many people still need a traditional suit and tie photo. It’s a classic look! And a well fitting suit is always sharp.I find it more interesting to do these in more of a portrait format, that gives the appearance of movement, even if it’s a simple lean-in.#suits #corporateleader #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghportraits #portraits #downtownpittsburgh #pittsburghcreative #pittsburghmostdope #412project #steelcity #capturedpgh #burghsnap #headshotphotographer #pghcreative #Chiefqualityofficer #regulatorofficer #corporate #executive #execs
Jul 1
Many people still need a traditional suit and tie photo. It’s a classic look! And a well fitting suit is always sharp. I find it more interesting to do these in more of a portrait format, that gives the appearance of movement, even if it’s a simple lean-in. #suits #corporateleader #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghportraits #portraits #downtownpittsburgh #pittsburghcreative #pittsburghmostdope #412project #steelcity #capturedpgh #burghsnap #headshotphotographer #pghcreative #Chiefqualityofficer #regulatorofficer #corporate #executive #execs
I love execs who aren’t afraid of color and a little creativity. Yes, many executives still need your traditional suit-and-tie photo (see that one in our following post tomorrow), but the fact is, most corporate leaders aren’t wearing traditional corporate garb on a day to day basis. There are so many great choices out there when it comes to blazers, sports coats, or whatever you want to call the suit jacket alternative. Don’t be afraid of a cool color and striking texture. You don’t need to go full-pattern to stand out. #Sportsjacket #blazer #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghheadshots #headshots #headshotcrew #downtownpittsburgh #pittsburghcreative #pittsburghmostdope #412project #steelcity #capturedpgh #burghsnap #headshotphotographer #pghcreative #Chiefqualityofficer #regulatorofficer #corporate #executive #execs
Jun 29
I love execs who aren’t afraid of color and a little creativity. Yes, many executives still need your traditional suit-and-tie photo (see that one in our following post tomorrow), but the fact is, most corporate leaders aren’t wearing traditional corporate garb on a day to day basis. There are so many great choices out there when it comes to blazers, sports coats, or whatever you want to call the suit jacket alternative. Don’t be afraid of a cool color and striking texture. You don’t need to go full-pattern to stand out. #Sportsjacket #blazer #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghheadshots #headshots #headshotcrew #downtownpittsburgh #pittsburghcreative #pittsburghmostdope #412project #steelcity #capturedpgh #burghsnap #headshotphotographer #pghcreative #Chiefqualityofficer #regulatorofficer #corporate #executive #execs
Composure. Discernment. Competence. Dignity. When I think of those who choose the legal profession, those are the adjectives that come to my mind. And this photo represents that to me. Perhaps it’s because I was drawn to that profession when I was in high school... although let’s be honest, if you went to an upper-suburbia school in the northeast in the 90s and had good grades, that’s what your were gently influenced to become. Well, that or a doctor. Needless to say, I chose neither. Although it was important for me to choose a direction in life that involved helping others. Through the years I have seen how much lawyers accomplish in helping people, in so many different situations of life. So give your lawyer a hug today, because they spend a lot of time buried in a ton of papers looking at rambling words to help you get the best deal you can from life. Ok, I was kidding a little bit about the “hug your lawyer” thing.... but hey, all of us need a little appreciation. Maybe just text them a 😃👍 instead. 😉#pittsburgh #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghheadshots #headshots #headshotcrew #downtownpittsburgh #pittsburghcreative #pittsburghmostdope #412project #steelcity #capturedpgh #burghsnap #headshotphotographer #pghcreative #lawyers #superlawyer #legal
Jun 26
Composure. Discernment. Competence. Dignity. When I think of those who choose the legal profession, those are the adjectives that come to my mind. And this photo represents that to me. Perhaps it’s because I was drawn to that profession when I was in high school... although let’s be honest, if you went to an upper-suburbia school in the northeast in the 90s and had good grades, that’s what your were gently influenced to become. Well, that or a doctor. Needless to say, I chose neither. Although it was important for me to choose a direction in life that involved helping others. Through the years I have seen how much lawyers accomplish in helping people, in so many different situations of life. So give your lawyer a hug today, because they spend a lot of time buried in a ton of papers looking at rambling words to help you get the best deal you can from life. Ok, I was kidding a little bit about the “hug your lawyer” thing.... but hey, all of us need a little appreciation. Maybe just text them a 😃👍 instead. 😉 #pittsburgh #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghheadshots #headshots #headshotcrew #downtownpittsburgh #pittsburghcreative #pittsburghmostdope #412project #steelcity #capturedpgh #burghsnap #headshotphotographer #pghcreative #lawyers #superlawyer #legal
So you saw the other photo like this that I took of Dan, that was pretty much straight out of camera... other than the fact that I took the @cubcadet_usa logo off his hat. 😂So what makes this photo different? 4 levels of @infinitecolorpanel grading, gradient shadow to make the subject stand out more, freq sep on face, curves adjustment, @joelgrimesworkshops cloud kit brushes on sky. All that work done by my postproduction dude, @dan_jenworleyphotography #colorado #pghcreeative #bestinpgh #headshotcrew #headshotcrew364 #pittsburghphotographer
Jun 23
So you saw the other photo like this that I took of Dan, that was pretty much straight out of camera... other than the fact that I took the @cubcadet_usa logo off his hat. 😂 So what makes this photo different? 4 levels of @infinitecolorpanel grading, gradient shadow to make the subject stand out more, freq sep on face, curves adjustment, @joelgrimesworkshops cloud kit brushes on sky. All that work done by my postproduction dude, @dan_jenworleyphotography #colorado #pghcreeative #bestinpgh #headshotcrew #headshotcrew364 #pittsburghphotographer
From our social-distancing-wilderness trip to Colorado a few weeks ago. Awesome trip. Definitely see why everyone wants to live there. #colorado #portraitphotographer #headshotcrew #socialdistancing
Jun 19
From our social-distancing-wilderness trip to Colorado a few weeks ago. Awesome trip. Definitely see why everyone wants to live there. #colorado #portraitphotographer #headshotcrew #socialdistancing
Wanted to add one more photo from my first week back last week! Loved Jackie’s new photo. I really appreciate everyone last week, this week, and forever into the future for remembering us and coming in after restrictions were lifted. And we are committed to keeping your experience safe from germs and that pesky Corona. 😉#shopsmallbusiness #pittsburghphotographer #williampenn #
Jun 18
Wanted to add one more photo from my first week back last week! Loved Jackie’s new photo. I really appreciate everyone last week, this week, and forever into the future for remembering us and coming in after restrictions were lifted. And we are committed to keeping your experience safe from germs and that pesky Corona. 😉#shopsmallbusiness #pittsburghphotographer #williampenn #
Another favorite from my first week back, last week. And my fav from Jessica’s session. Thanks for supporting #smallbusiness #pittsburghphotographer #headshotphotographer #smile
Jun 15
Another favorite from my first week back, last week. And my fav from Jessica’s session. Thanks for supporting #smallbusiness #pittsburghphotographer #headshotphotographer #smile
It’s been a good first week back to work: Thanks, Louis, for coming in on my first day back! I’m really appreciative that many of my clients whose appointments were cancelled back in March/April, didn’t forget about me. 😁#smallbusiness #openforbusiness It’s probably going to be a slower month for photographers, since many clients need to get their long-overdue hair appointment completed first. My good friend @georgeoushairatcapretti I know is working ridiculously hard, while observing all the new protocols, to get everyone in. #pittsburghhairstylist #pittsburghphotographer
Jun 11
It’s been a good first week back to work: Thanks, Louis, for coming in on my first day back! I’m really appreciative that many of my clients whose appointments were cancelled back in March/April, didn’t forget about me. 😁#smallbusiness #openforbusiness It’s probably going to be a slower month for photographers, since many clients need to get their long-overdue hair appointment completed first. My good friend @georgeoushairatcapretti I know is working ridiculously hard, while observing all the new protocols, to get everyone in. #pittsburghhairstylist #pittsburghphotographer
First day back to work! Modified, of course. Looking forward to it! #startingback #goinggreen #pa #pittsburghphotographer
Jun 8
First day back to work! Modified, of course. Looking forward to it! #startingback #goinggreen #pa #pittsburghphotographer
Green Day for Pittsburgh is finally here. Not the band. So glad people are able to get back to work! I’ll be returning to work Monday after everyone has time to get a haircut today and over the weekend! @caprettriandco And I feel for small businesses who won’t be reopening, like I just saw a headline about @union_standard Right across the street and I never got there! And the wood always smelled amazing! 😢 #reopening #pittsburghgoinggreen #photography
Jun 5
Green Day for Pittsburgh is finally here. Not the band. So glad people are able to get back to work! I’ll be returning to work Monday after everyone has time to get a haircut today and over the weekend! @caprettriandco And I feel for small businesses who won’t be reopening, like I just saw a headline about @union_standard Right across the street and I never got there! And the wood always smelled amazing! 😢 #reopening #pittsburghgoinggreen #photography
We’re going green, my friends! As our county goes into “green phase”, we’ll be back to work to take your Headshot and Portrait photos starting June 8th! Thank you to @breakofda_wn for my four awesome masks! And thanks to @peter_hurley for this great gif idea! #headshotcrew #pittsburghphotographer #headshotphotos #goinggreen #coronacantkeepmedown
Jun 1
We’re going green, my friends! As our county goes into “green phase”, we’ll be back to work to take your Headshot and Portrait photos starting June 8th! Thank you to @breakofda_wn for my four awesome masks! And thanks to @peter_hurley for this great gif idea! #headshotcrew #pittsburghphotographer #headshotphotos #goinggreen #coronacantkeepmedown
“Worry-Sadness-Gratitude-Hope” Completes my #Rainbow Trilogy and sums up where I am. Worry, as many are, about forging ahead. Sadness, for those we have lost in death. Gratitude, for all those who have worked to keep us safe and sane. And Hope, for what the future holds. #chasetherainbow #healthcare #headshotcrew #gratitude #hope
May 28
“Worry-Sadness-Gratitude-Hope” Completes my #Rainbow Trilogy and sums up where I am. Worry, as many are, about forging ahead. Sadness, for those we have lost in death. Gratitude, for all those who have worked to keep us safe and sane. And Hope, for what the future holds. #chasetherainbow #healthcare #headshotcrew #gratitude #hope
The waterfall of hope springs eternal. Thanks to you all, once again, who are putting your life on the line every day, to help our families and friends. #gratitude #chasetherainbow #rainbow #healthcareheros #rainbowsofhope @yumi #godoxhomestudio #godoxad200 @godox_photo_equipment #pghcreative
May 7
The waterfall of hope springs eternal. Thanks to you all, once again, who are putting your life on the line every day, to help our families and friends. #gratitude #chasetherainbow #rainbow #healthcareheros #rainbowsofhope @yumi #godoxhomestudio #godoxad200 @godox_photo_equipment #pghcreative
I’d rather be in the action ... but I’m not an editorial photographer. So my next series-of-3 is inspired by the healthcare workers and other essential workers who have been assuming risk while I am #stayathome BTS “home studio” photo included. #gratitude #chasetherainbow #rainbow #healthcareheros #rainbowsofhope @yumi #godoxhomestudio #godoxad200 @godox_photo_equipment
May 1
I’d rather be in the action ... but I’m not an editorial photographer. So my next series-of-3 is inspired by the healthcare workers and other essential workers who have been assuming risk while I am #stayathome BTS “home studio” photo included. #gratitude #chasetherainbow #rainbow #healthcareheros #rainbowsofhope @yumi #godoxhomestudio #godoxad200 @godox_photo_equipment
Serenity. #6 Not ready to go back to work yet (although I’m still not sure when that will happen anyway) - I like playing! Although money would be nice. Enjoyed doing this project with @dan_jenworleyphotography #blackandwhite #pittsburghphotographer #peterhapak #stayhome
Apr 30
Serenity. #6 Not ready to go back to work yet (although I’m still not sure when that will happen anyway) - I like playing! Although money would be nice. Enjoyed doing this project with @dan_jenworleyphotography #blackandwhite #pittsburghphotographer #peterhapak #stayhome
“Not too sure about that.” #5, on to the right side (of the face). @dan_jenworleyphotography #blackandwhite #headshotcrew #pittsburghpa
Apr 29
“Not too sure about that.” #5, on to the right side (of the face). @dan_jenworleyphotography #blackandwhite #headshotcrew #pittsburghpa