How to choose the best headshot photographer in maryland
Choosing the right headshot photographer is one of the most important decisions you can make for your brand and even your career. Whether you're an executive, a small business owner, a transitioning military professional, or someone simply ready to upgrade your LinkedIn presence, your headshot becomes your digital first impression.
Maryland is a competitive market, and not all photographers will deliver the same level of quality, direction, or professionalism.
In this guide will show you exactly what to look for, what to avoid, and how to choose the Maryland headshot photographer who will help you look confident, credible, and like a leader.
Why Your choice of Photographer Matters
A professional headshot isn’t just a nice photo — it should communicate:
Confidence
Leadership
Approachability
Credibility
Professional polish
A great photographer doesn’t just take your picture.
They coach you on your expression, posture, bring out your best features, understand the message you want your audience to see and help you communicate that.
1. Look for a Photographer Who Specializes in Headshots
Many photographers offer headshots along with a dozen other services, but not all of them specialize it.
A true headshot specialist knows:
How to shape your expression
How to guide posture and angles
How to light faces for clarity and confidence
How different professions need to appear (executive, consultant, real estate agent, etc.)
At Armato Headshots, headshots are the core of the business — not an add-on service.
Learn more about our approach on our Headshots Page.
2. Review Their Portfolio Carefully
A strong portfolio needs to show:
✔ Consistent lighting
You want to know exactly what you’re going to get
✔ Natural expressions
No awkward smiles. No stiff postures.
✔ Range of industries
Executives, business owners, real estate agents, medical professionals, veterans, creatives, and more.
✔ Clear and consistent photographic style
Professional, clean, modern, and confident — not trendy or overly filtered.
View our gallery here:
View Business Headshot Portfolio
3. Look for facial Expression Coaching
This is where 90% of photographers fall short.
The average person doesn’t feel comfortable in front of the camera. That’s why it’s essential to choose a photographer who coaches you through:
Micro-expressions
Natural smiles, no “say cheese” or Smile!”
Confident neutral expressions
Subtle posture corrections
Charismatic body language
If the photographer doesn’t guide you, you’re left guessing — and the photos show it.
At Armato Headshots, expression coaching is built into every session.
4. Ask About Retouching Quality
Professional retouching should look:
Clean
Natural
Polished
Not filtered or airbrushed
Good retouching removes distractions. I keep retouching very simple, I don’t want my images to look retouched.
Your headshot should still look like you, but on your best day.
5. Check Their Reviews!
We live and die by our Google reviews.
Look for reviews from:
Executives
Business owners
Job seekers
Veterans transitioning to civilian careers
Creative professionals
Corporate teams
These reviews reveal what matters most:
Were the sessions comfortable?
Did the client feel confident?
Did the results help them get noticed?
Was the photographer professional and efficient?
Read Armato Headshots reviews here:
Client Testimonials
9. Pricing Should Be Clear and Simple
Avoid photographers with:
Hidden fees
Complicated licensing rules
Confusing packages
Pricing should be simple. I avoid complicated licensing and convoluted packages. Buy what you love, nothing more.
So, if you’re ready to book your session with me, I’d be happy to help you level up your image. Click below to get started.
Book Your Professional Headshot in Maryland
Look like a leader. Feel like yourself.