Why simple headshots still need a point of view
Even clean portraits should say something about the person, not just prove they stood in front of a backdrop.

A lot of headshots fail because they stop at being presentable. Presentable is not the same thing as memorable. A useful portrait should still feel like the person in it has a point of view.
Clean does not have to mean generic
You can keep the frame simple and still make thoughtful decisions about posture, expression, lens choice, and contrast. That is usually what separates a portrait people keep from one they replace quickly.
Direction matters more than complexity
Most people do not need a bigger set. They need clear, calm direction and enough time to settle into a frame that looks like them on a good day.
That is why even minimal headshot sessions should still be treated like portrait sessions, not paperwork.
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