You've received your pageant application.

And you noticed that besides the paperwork you also need to submit a pageant headshot.

If you're new to the pageant world you might be wondering what is a pageant headshot supposed to look like?

Will a selfie suffice?

How should I do my hair, make-up and wardrobe?

I know that for beginner pageant girls this can be a little confusing.

But it's okay because today I'm going to show you how to nail your pageant headshot.

Pageant Headshots: Are They Really a Big Deal?

Yes!

Your pageant headshot is very important.

It helps create that first impression on the pageant staff and judges.

You want anyone who looks at your pageant headshot to see it and say, "This girl is ready to be the next titleholder.

Your pageant headshot should look like you.

So don't submit an old photo of yourself, especially if your look has changed.

And also don't use an overly touched up image.

In short, your pageant headshot look something like this:

Pageant headshots are generally taken from the shoulders up with good lighting and should be in focus.

Pageant Headshot Photographers

It's important to hire a pageant photographer.

Or at least someone with some experience in shooting pageant headshots.

If you're a serious competitor then you should not settle for just any photographer.

You will need to examine the photographer's portfolio to see if you like their work.

The photographer should have an eye for capturing those magical moments that will make you stand out.

The worst thing you can do is shell out a bunch of money only to end up with amateur looking pageant headshots.

You also want to ensure that you meet with the photographer before agreeing to hire them.

You should feel comfortable with the photographer before booking them.

When It Comes To Pageant Headshots Leave Nothing To Chance

Take the time to consult with your hair and make-up team.

Oh, did you think you were going to be able to get away with not hiring a professional hair and make-up artist?

Think again.

Trust me you don't want to add the stress of hair and make-up to your plate when you're doing a photoshoot.

Do your research and bring pictures of hairstyles and make-up looks to your consults.

A professional and experienced hair and make-up team will help you determine the best look for you.

Also, be sure that you're wearing appropriate hair and make-up for your age and your pageant.

Are you competing in a Teen or Miss pageant?

Is this a glitz or natural pageant?

Consider these questions before going in for your photoshoot.

Do Not Sleep On Your Pageant Headshot Wardrobe

Just because you won't be able to see your entire outfit does mean you get to slack off in the wardrobe department.

With headshots, you should take into consideration the colour and neckline.

Choose attire that has an interesting or elegant or fun neckline.

Don't be afraid to fancy things up by wearing an evening gown.

Evening gowns with beautiful necklines can really make your headshots pop.

No matter how many looks your photoshoot packages comes with its always best to bring more attire than you need.

Sometimes certain items don't photograph well.

Or maybe you just aren't feeling something you picked out previously.

You never want to be at your shoot wishing you had another option.

You Better Pose for That Pageant Headshot

Here's where the real work comes in.

It's a good idea to study pageant headshots so you can learn some of the poses.

A few common types of poses include:

Pageant Headshot: Straight to Camera

Pageant Headshot: Hand to Chin

Pageant Headshot: Over the Shoulder

A good tip is to practice each pose so that it comes naturally at your photoshoot.

Have a friend take some photos of you so that you can master these poses.

Even though a photographer is there to direct you, you don't want them to have to stop between poses to adjust you.

You should also know 'your best side' and practice angling that side towards the camera.

The most important aspect of taking a photo is your eyes.

"The eyes are the windows to our souls." - William Shakespeare

Your eyes are what captivate your audience.

It helps when you can think of something that makes you truly happy.

Then allow that emotion to translate through your eyes.

So like Tyra Banks always says smize, girl, smize.

Another thing contestants often struggle with is whether to smile or not to smile.

And that depends on your age division and the type of pageant you're competing in.

Ultimately you want to do what feels most natural and looks best on you.

Final Thoughts

The best way to ensure that you nail your pageant headshot is to put in the work.

If you fail to plan then you plan to fail.

And you don't want to fail at something that is completely in your control.

You want to impress the pageant organizers and judges so that they don't forget about you.

Once you put in the effort your photos are sure to come out spectacular.

You'll feel proud and confident that you're handing in a winning headshot as part of your application.