Headshots: Background or No Background?

Brad I · **Headshots: Background or No Background? -** 03-06-2007, 11:53 AM

I've seen a lot of different landing pages lately with a headshot of the publisher/developer where the background is simply white. I was wondering if the white background pulls better or what's the rationale?

I removed the background from my photo (on my landing page) to see what happens but I am still curious why remove the background?

Prouddad · **Re: Headshots: Background or No Background? -** 03-07-2007, 02:03 AM

As a rule, the less background, the better. There are of course, exceptions, like for instance, you may see a photo of a lawyer with a background of books or a ballplayer with the field or stadium in the background.

But the focus should almost always be on the person/main subject, with background subjects remaining just that.....in the background.

Rob

Brad I · **Re: Headshots: Background or No Background? -** 03-07-2007, 10:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Prouddad

But the focus should almost always be on the person/main subject, with background subjects remaining just that.....in the background.

Ahh..I see, thanks Rob

Mr. Subtle · **Re: Headshots: Background or No Background? -** 03-07-2007, 11:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Brad I

I've seen a lot of different landing pages lately with a headshot of the publisher/developer where the background is simply white. I was wondering if the white background pulls better or what's the rationale?

I removed the background from my photo (on my landing page) to see what happens but I am still curious why remove the background?

I've always PIKED white backgrounds on pics of people, but not for any picture you may have. Your pic with the white background is OK, but it looks weird because one of your shoulders is cut off.

Vin's (tvwriterguy) website has a framed pic where he added a shade of green to the background. If I were Vin and the product I'm selling is me, I'd have a bunch of studio shots taken. If I were on a budget I'd take some "ghetto" (Ricky's term) studio shots by hanging some white sheets outside...using the sun for "lights" and filling in some of the shadows by using my digital camera's flash. It's easy to PhotoChop the person from a white (or neutral) background.

The sample below is how I'd set up my pic if I were Vin. I used my Vinnie "stand in" and inserted him full figure next to his body copy. I dropped a shadow behind him to give the site a 3-D effect. The same pic could be cropped for a head-to-waist shot and a head-to-shoulders shot.

Remember to take a bunch of shots in POWER poses...hands on hips...hands in pockets...arms crossed...hand/arm pointing...arm reaching out as if to shake hands...an OK with fingers...a thumbs up...writing a note on your palm pilot...talking on your cell, etc.

Prouddad · **Re: Headshots: Background or No Background? -** 03-07-2007, 01:25 PM

I am a photography buff, and I agree with everything that Mr. Subtle wrote, Brad. Mr. Subtle's example was terrific from a photographic/design standpoint.

In fact, both your photo and mine should have more neutral backgrounds, to accentuate us.

Rob

Montello Marketing · **Re: Headshots: Background or No Background? -** 03-07-2007, 01:28 PM

Subtle,

First... I plan on new shots. Just been too busy. Probably after I move and settle in.

And I love your layout although I will probably never do a full body shot.

I'm always on a diet and will probably never feel comfortable enough for the full body shot. At least no time soon.

That said... LOL... if that guy is stock, I'll just use him!

Okay now for the big question... why don't we get to see a picture of you, Subtle?

Vin

Mr. Subtle · **Re: Headshots: Background or No Background? -** 03-07-2007, 03:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tvwriterguy

And I love your layout although I will probably never do a full body shot.

I'm always on a diet and will probably never feel comfortable enough for the full body shot. At least no time soon.

That's why I said a head-to-waist or head-to-shoulders shot works fine too. I just like how dynamic and eye catching a full length shot can be on a web page since few use them.

Montello Marketing · **Re: Headshots: Background or No Background? -** 03-07-2007, 03:39 PM

Aaah, but you never answered the "big question."

Mr. Subtle · **Re: Headshots: Background or No Background? -** 03-07-2007, 06:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tvwriterguy

Aaah, but you never answered the "big question."

I leave the "big question" to those with rep powers that are 2 and above.

Montello Marketing · **Re: Headshots: Background or No Background? -** 03-07-2007, 07:10 PM

LOL... damn... right in the heart with that arrow!