by Mary Denman @MaryDenman

As writers, we think about having the right tools for our craft. But we also need to do certain things to hone that craft.

• We need to spend time in the chair, writing.
• We need fellow writers for critiques.
• We need to learn the rules of writing.
• We need to learn the marketing and social media sides of writing.

Attending a writing conference can help us in all these areas.

But in addition to these, we also need one other tool. A quality headshot.

Why a Headshot

It speaks to our professionalism. A grainy, cropped picture doesn’t send the right message to editors and agents. We need a professional shot to emphasize the fact that we’re serious about our writing.

We need it for social media. Times have changed and publishing houses look for us online. They want to see the size and quality of our platform. We need a good headshot for Twitter, Facebook and the like.

We need a quality headshot for our business cards and one sheets. And hopefully, one day, we’ll need it for the back of our book covers!

One of the great things about Blue Ridge Christian Writers Conference is that you have an opportunity to get an affordable headshot.

Get Prepared

1.Consider what you’re trying to convey through your headshot.  The answer isn’t just to look nice. Yes, that’s important. But think about who you are as an author. Your writing and your “voice” reflect who you are. Let your headshot do the same. Are you a mystery writer? Maybe your photo should be black and white with shadows. That would add intrigue. But if you’re a children’s author, a brighter, colorful picture might serve you better.

2.Think through your clothing choice. Unless you want to say you’re from the islands, leave the busy Hawaiian shirt in your closet. Pick simple clothing. Solid colors are usually a great choice but I would avoid bright red or pink which saturates the shot. And plaids, paisleys and patterns can distract from the subject.  Namely you. Remember the KISS principle.  Keep it simply simple. No, I am not going to call you stupid.

3.Ladies, think about your makeup. You don’t want to go all out and wear tons of makeup if you normally like the natural look. But make sure you have what you need in your purse when the time comes. Stop by the ladies room, freshen up and then head to your shoot with confidence!

4.Talk to your photographer.  Ask questions.  Listen to suggestions.  We will then come up with a simple game plan for your shoot. So even if you don’t get a headshot with me at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference, learn to communicate with your photographer.

5. RELAX! I know. I know. Going to a photo shoot may be up there with filling cavities, but it doesn’t have to be that bad. What’s the worst that can happen? You don’t like your shot and it gets deleted. What’s the best that can happen?  You’re discovered to be a movie star? Oh, that’s for actors. How about your readers see your photo and decide you might have something interesting to say?  For a few dollars and a few minutes of time – that’s worth relaxing for.

Package Options

I’ll be back this year doing headshots and I’m offering packages of different levels.

• Package 1: $50 for 3 shots, lightly edited
• Package 2: $100 for 15 shots, including full length shots, lightly edited
• Add on: $10 for a header shot that you can use on Facebook, Twitter, or your blog.

You may sign up for your appointment starting Sunday night at the conference. Each appointment is 30 minutes.

Click here for examples of headshots taken at Blue Ridge.

I look forward to seeing you there!

Mary Denman is a writer who loves photography. Or a photographer who loves writing. As a freelance writer, Mary has had articles published in various forms ranging from Focus on the Family publications to magazines to devotions to op-ed pieces. She’s a member of several professional writing organizations including ACFW, My Book Therapy, and Word Weavers. 

As a professional photographer, Mary has had photos published in both print literature and online. Her shots have been used by businesses and by fellow authors alike. Her philosophy is to catch a moment that reflects God’s beauty and creativity, whether in nature, in life or in the face of her subjects.

Mary blends the two mediums of writing and photography on her blog. www.marydenman.blogspot.com.