Most men don't enjoy having their photo taken. That's the most common thing heard before a session and it's exactly why the coaching and direction matter as much as the camera and lighting. Nina Pomeroy has been photographing male executives, business owners and professionals across the Tri-Valley for 26 years. Sessions are low-key, efficient and produce images that look natural not stiff, not forced and nothing like a DMV photo.

What Makes a Strong Men's Headshot

The best professional headshots for men share a few consistent qualities: they look current, they look approachable and they look like the person on a confident day. Not a version of them in a costume, actually them, at their best.

That balance comes from three things: good lighting, proper direction and a session where you're comfortable enough to relax. Direction is provided throughout every session specific guidance on posture, expression and angles so the result looks natural rather than posed.

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What to Wear

Wardrobe is one of the biggest variables in how a men's headshot turns out. A few things that consistently work well:

• Navy, charcoal or dark gray - the most reliable choices across all skin tones and backgrounds

• A well-fitted blazer or sport coat - adds structure and professionalism without requiring a full suit

• Solid colors over patterns - stripes, checks and busy prints draw attention away from your face and date quickly

• A dress shirt with or without a tie - depending on your industry and how formal you want the image to feel

• Avoid large logos and anything that dates quickly

Bring 2 to 3 options. Different looks give you flexibility across different uses a more formal image for your company website, a slightly more relaxed look for LinkedIn.

Grooming Tips

A few small things make a visible difference on camera:

• Schedule a haircut 5 to 7 days before your session, fresh enough to look clean, settled enough to look natural

• If you have facial hair, trim it within a day or two of the session

• A fresh shave the morning of the session for clean-shaven looks

• Avoid trying a new product or style the day of, stick with what you know works

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What to Expect

Before Your Session A detailed prep guide covering wardrobe and grooming is sent with your booking confirmation. Before the camera comes out, Nina takes time to understand where your images will be used and what impression you want to make that shapes the entire session.

During Your Session Sessions run approximately 30-60 minutes with time for wardrobe changes. Direction is provided throughout you don't need to know what to do. Most clients are surprised by how comfortable and efficient the session actually is.

After Your Session Your fully retouched images are delivered through a private online gallery. All purchased images include professional retouching and full-resolution files for both print and web.

View session options and investment

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Why Choose a Headshot Specialist

A search for headshot photographers returns a long list of options, many of whom offer headshots alongside weddings, family portraits and events. A generalist and a specialist produce very different results.

Nina photographs headshots and portraits exclusively. That focus means 26 years of experience specifically in lighting, directing expressions and producing images that hold up across every professional platform. With 500+ five-star reviews from professionals across the Tri-Valley and East Bay, the results speak for themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to wear a suit? Not necessarily. A well-fitted blazer or sport coat works well for most industries and reads as professional without being overly formal. If your industry or role calls for a full suit, bring one, but it's not required.

Should I shave for my headshot? If you're clean-shaven, shave the morning of the session. If you have a beard or stubble, trim it within a day or two beforehand. Whatever your normal grooming routine is, do a polished version of that.

What if I'm not comfortable in front of the camera? That's the most common thing men say before a session. Direction and coaching are provided throughout so you don't have to figure out what to do. Most clients are surprised by how natural the results look.

How long does a session take? Individual sessions run approximately 60 minutes with time for wardrobe changes.

Where is the studio? The studio is at 4725 1st Street in downtown Pleasanton, centrally located in the Tri-Valley. Parking is available in three lots surrounding the building.

When will I receive my photos? Your retouched images are delivered through a private online gallery within a few business days. Rush delivery is available.