The Ultimate Guide to Headshot Photography in New Bern, NC
Professional, authentic, and relaxed headshot sessions that reflect who you really are.
You know that feeling right before a big meeting — when you double-check your collar in the mirror, shake out your nerves, and take a breath because this is your moment?
That’s what a great headshot should feel like.
It’s more than a photo. It’s your first impression. Your digital handshake. Your “this is me” moment.
But here’s the thing: not all headshots are created equal. Especially in a small town like New Bern, NC, where creativity meets coastal calm, you deserve something more than the standard gray backdrop and stiff smile.
This guide is going to walk you through everything — what makes a headshot truly powerful, how to prepare, what to wear, how the session works (spoiler: it’s not stiff or awkward), and why New Bern is the perfect place to create the kind of image that doesn’t just look professional — it looks like you.
Let’s dive in.
Relaxed professional portrait taken in studio with soft lighting
Why Headshots Matter (More Than You Think)
We live in a swipe-right, scroll-fast world. That means people are making decisions in seconds.
Your headshot isn’t just a box to check. It’s:
The reason someone pauses on your LinkedIn profile
The reason a potential client feels trust before your first call
The visual that connects your brand to your face
And here’s the kicker: if your photo feels generic, forgettable, or outdated — that’s how your audience might see you, too.
That’s why my job as a professional headshot photographer in New Bern NC isn’t just to take your photo. It’s to capture you at your best — the way you walk into a room when you’re ready to lead, pitch, or connect.
What Makes a Headshot “Authentic”?
The best compliment I ever got after delivering a gallery?
“This looks like how I feel when I’m killing it in my business.”
That’s the sweet spot.
An authentic business headshot doesn’t mean messy or casual. It means aligned. It means:
Lighting that feels clean and fresh
An expression that’s inviting, not stiff
A wardrobe that matches your profession and personality
A setting that feels purposeful, whether it's a studio backdrop or your own workspace
In short: it looks like you on your best day — not you trying to survive a photo shoot.
Studio or On-Location? The Answer is Both.
Some people shine in a studio. Others come alive in their element — at their desk, on the sidewalk, or under the sun.
That’s why I offer both studio and on-location headshots in New Bern NC.
In-Studio
Controlled lighting
Simple, clean backgrounds
Timeless and versatile
On-Location
Natural light with real-life texture
Your business, your vibe
Great for personal branding or creative fields
If you’re not sure which is right for you, we’ll figure it out together during your consultation. Some clients do both — and walk away with a full arsenal of looks for every platform.
Side by side comparison of a studio headshot with a financial advisor vs on location headshot with Nicholas Sparks
Relaxed Headshot Sessions — Yes, Really
If the words “headshot session” give you flashbacks to forced school portraits or corporate picture day... take a deep breath.
This is not that.
I specialize in relaxed headshot sessions in New Bern that feel more like a conversation than a shoot. Here’s how it works:
We chat for a few minutes before I even pick up the camera
I guide you through every pose, hand placement, and expression
You don’t have to “know how to smile” — I’ll get the real one out of you
The most common phrase I hear after the first 10 minutes?
“Oh wow, this is actually kinda fun.”
And yeah — we’ll laugh. I’ll probably roast your “photo face” a little. You’ll leave surprised at how not painful it was.
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Personal Branding Headshots: More Than a Pretty Face
For entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone building a business — your headshot is just the beginning.
That’s why I offer personal branding photography in New Bern NC. These sessions go beyond the head-and-shoulders look. You’ll get:
Lifestyle portraits that tell your story
Images of you in action — working, thinking, connecting
A bank of content for your website, social media, and marketing
Because the truth is: your audience doesn’t just want to know what you look like — they want to know who you are, what you stand for, and what it’s like to work with you.
Two professional female Entrepreneurs sipping coffee for a posed candid branding photo
What to Wear (And What Not To)
Clothing can make or break a great headshot. The goal is to wear something that supports your face, not distracts from it.
Here’s the cheat sheet: (Download the full checklist)
Solid colors over patterns
Layers are your friend (jackets, blazers, cardigans = variety)
Avoid logos or busy prints
Neutrals or rich jewel tones photograph best
Bring 2–3 options to mix and match
We’ll go over this together ahead of time, and I’ll guide you based on your style and industry. Whether you’re in real estate, tech, wellness, or the arts — your wardrobe should reflect your audience and your vibe.
👉🏼 I have a full checklist guide available to download. Get your copy here.
What to Expect Before, During, and After
BEFORE:
Easy online booking
Quick consultation call to go over goals and wardrobe
A prep guide with my best tips (no overthinking, promise)
DURING:
One-hour relaxed session
Studio or location (or both!)
Hair & makeup add-ons available
Outfit changes allowed and encouraged
AFTER:
Same-day or next-day proofing gallery
Select your favorite images
Fully retouched digital files delivered in 2–3 business days
Additional images, prints, and upgrades available
[Insert image: smiling client reviewing image previews on a laptop]
Who Needs a Headshot?
You do. But not just “because you’re supposed to.” Because you deserve to be represented — boldly and professionally — in the digital world.
A few of my most common clients:
Real estate agents
Entrepreneurs & business owners
Therapists and medical professionals
Authors, speakers, and podcasters
Students entering the job market
Creatives & performers
Corporate teams
Whether you’re climbing a ladder or building one of your own, this is your sign: get the headshot that matches the energy you’re bringing to the table.
Why New Bern, NC?
Big cities get all the press, but New Bern is low-key one of the best places to get professional photography.
Why?
Less chaos = more time and attention per client
Gorgeous mix of urban texture, waterfront charm, and historic architecture
A growing business and creative community that values storytelling
My studio is right downtown — easy to access, easy to park, and designed for calm. No rushed sessions. No high-volume churn. Just thoughtful, high-quality portrait work built around you.
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Let’s Talk About Pricing
My standard headshot package starts at $390. That includes:
A full hour of shoot time
3+ outfit changes
Two professionally retouched images
Same-day proofing
Commercial-use license
And yeah — good lighting, good energy, and a little confidence boost on the house
Have a team and need lots of people? I offer team headshots as low as $150 per person. Get in touch for detailed rates.
Need more? We’ll build you a package that fits your brand. Personal branding packages and team sessions available upon request.
Ready to Update Your Headshot?
Here’s the truth: you don’t have to lose 10 pounds. You don’t need a “better reason.” You don’t need permission.
You just need to start.
Because the real power of a headshot isn’t in the photo itself — it’s in the way it reminds you that you belong. On the website. On the team. In the room.
👉 Click here to book your headshot session in New Bern, NC
Let’s capture the real you — the one your clients, audience, and future opportunities are waiting to meet.
Up Next…
Stay tuned — this post is just the beginning. I’m working on a series of in-depth guides to help you prep for your best headshot session ever:
Top 5 Locations for Natural Light Headshots in New Bern
How to Prepare for a Relaxed Headshot Session
Personal Branding Photography: Making Your Mark in New Bern
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