At Kirvan Photography + Film, one of the most common questions we receive is whether headshots can include shadow. The answer is absolutely yes, but it depends on your style and the message you want to convey. For example, we recently worked with Josh, a music artist based in Thunder Bay. Josh wanted headshots to promote his work on Spotify and other online platforms. As soon as he explained his vision, we got excited because artist headshots allow a very different vibe than business headshots. Unlike lawyers or real estate agents, artists have the freedom and often the need to explore expressive, edgy, and visually interesting approaches. That includes incorporating shadow, a tool usually avoided in traditional headshots.
For many people, shadows can feel intimidating because they highlight wrinkles or create a more serious expression. However, that effect might not suit a corporate headshot, but for a music artist, it tells a different story. Shadows can add mood, depth, and intrigue, which are perfect qualities when your image is one of the first things people see.
For Josh’s shoot, we explored two distinct types of shadow, starting with Rembrandt lighting. This classic style leaves part of the face in shadow, except for a small triangle of light under the eye. Many photographers call this the “Rembrandt look.” We especially love shooting from the shadow side because it creates a dramatic, cinematic vibe. For artists like Josh, who may never meet their audience in person, a strong visual identity is essential. As a result, Rembrandt lighting helps create bold, engaging images that immediately capture attention.
The second look we tried used hard light to cast strong shadows behind Josh. To achieve this, we removed the softbox and used direct flash, creating bold, defined shadows on the background. This technique produces a raw, gritty, film noir-inspired look that is very popular in music and fashion photography. However, this style isn’t for the faint of heart. It requires commitment from the subject because hard flash is intense, but it results in striking, memorable images.
Yes, headshots can include shadow, and more importantly, they should if it fits your style. Every person is unique, and no two headshots should ever look the same. A great headshot tells your story, conveys your vibe, and leaves a lasting impression. Therefore, if you are a moody, artistic type who wants a more serious or stylized look, we say: embrace the shadow.