FEEL AT EASE AND CONFIDENT IN EVERY PHOTO

HEADSHOTS CHICAGO

GETTING YOUR PHOTO TAKEN CAN BE NERVE WRACKING

Your fake smile is nothing like the real thing. Your hair is a disaster. You don’t know what to do with your hands or where to stand. You’re a mess in front of the camera, and it shows in the results.

What if I told you that none of those issues are your fault, but instead, it’s on the photographer?

While a great headshot photographer can’t give you a new haircut, they can certainly guide you on adjusting it to look the best in photos. They will tell you exactly where to stand, how to turn, and if your hands go by your side or crossed in front of you. Most importantly, they’ll be able to draw out genuine expressions. Even if you’re not going for that big cheesy smile, looking genuine, confident, and at least somewhat friendly are fairly universal.

Professional looking person in a clean studio setting

Executive Headshots

I’m able to put people at ease within minutes, so even the first few frames feel relaxed and genuine. That comfort is especially valuable for executives who rarely have time to think about being in front of a camera.

Throughout your session, we explore different expressions, refine the lighting, and adjust every detail. We’re not rushing to get it over with, we’re taking the time to create corporate headshots and professional portraits that reflect the confidence, approachability, and professionalism you want to project.

By the end, you’ll have a large, thoughtfully curated selection to choose from, ensuring the final image feels authentic and represents you at the highest level.
Actor headshot with strong eye contact

Acting Headshots

Whether you’re preparing for auditions, updating your portfolio, or working with a new agent, your headshot is often the first impression you make. I create a relaxed, collaborative environment so you can focus on showing range and authenticity without feeling rushed or over-directed.

We’ll work through a variety of expressions, angles, and lighting styles to capture both your personality and the specific looks casting directors expect to see. By the end, you’ll have a diverse set of professional actor headshots in Chicago that feel true to you and give you flexibility in how you present yourself across roles and opportunities.
LinkedIn headshot, approachable and professional

Headshots for LinkedIn

Your LinkedIn profile photo is often the first thing people notice and it shapes how they view your professionalism. Most people I work with aren’t professional models, and they shouldn’t have to be.

During your LinkedIn headshot session in Chicago, I guide you through the entire process, from posing to expression, so you never feel unsure about what to do in front of the camera.

We’ll capture polished, approachable professional headshots that align with your personal brand and work just as well on LinkedIn as they do on your company website, speaking bios, and other platforms. The result is an image that feels natural, represents you authentically, and helps you make a strong first impression before the conversation even begins.
Branding photography set showing on-brand color and styling

Branding Images

I create cohesive branding images, for companies and individuals, that show variety while staying true to your brand guidelines. We plan around palette, tone, and use cases (website, social, press, and internal materials) so every photo feels consistent and on-brand.

Sessions are collaborative from start to finish. We build a library that covers portraits, details, environment, and lifestyle moments, giving you a flexible set of branding photographs you can use across platforms without repeating the same look.

The result is variety with purpose: a unified visual story that supports your brand everywhere it needs to live.

Corporate Headshots

When your team needs new headshots, every minute counts. I connect with each person quickly, help them relax, and guide them so those first few clicks already capture genuine, natural expressions. No long sessions. No endless retakes.

By setting up right at your office, you save time, reduce scheduling headaches, and keep productivity high. It’s an efficient way to get consistent, high-quality images while your business keeps moving.

Corporate headshots taken at an office

Trusted By

  • Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago
  • Stripe
  • Revive Health
  • Decennial
  • Challenger
  • FCB
  • Telesto Strategy
  • Gatorade Sports Science Institute

What Clients Say

Portrait of Michael S.
Michael S.
Professional Headshot
“My time with Cam was nothing but a pleasure. Quick, painless, and he made me feel very welcomed and comfortable. Would definitely recommend!”
Rated 5 out of 5
Portrait of Sandy E.
Sandy E.
Executive Team Session
“Cameron made everyone feel comfortable in front of the camera, even those of us who are usually a bit camera-shy. He took the time to guide each team member through the process, offering helpful direction while still allowing for natural expression and personality to shine through.”
Rated 5 out of 5
Portrait of Andrew T.
Andrew T.
Corporate Portraits
“Cameron was incredibly friendly and professional! His passion for photography is clear and his method for getting natural, flattering shots is so approachable and calming. Highly recommend!”
Rated 5 out of 5

3 SIMPLE STEPS TO
GREAT HEADSHOTS

BOOK YOUR
SESSION

Do your research first. Make sure you connect with the photographer and you're confident they can pull out genuine expressions from you.

ENJOY THE
PHOTOSHOOT

Whether you're getting corporate headshots taken, or portraits for an acting portfolio, have some fun with it! You likely don't do this often, so enjoy the process!

POST YOUR
PHOTOS

You finally have professional headshots that you're happy with, get them out there for the world to see!

About me

I'm Cameron. I capture genuine expressions.

I run Second City Headshots here in Chicago. I have the ability to connect fast, keep things relaxed, and coach expression so you look confident without feeling posed.

Most clients use their photos on LinkedIn, team pages, speaking bios, and press. I care about clean light, natural color, and a look that fits your brand and your next step.

Cameron Southwood. Headshot Photographer
From sports to photos

I learned timing and anticipation from sports.

I started with sports. Playing and photographing. Being close to the action taught me to read moments, anticipate, and stay calm when it counts.

In headshots I use the same instincts. I watch for micro expressions, give clear direction, and wait for the frame that clicks. Simple setup. Honest expression.

Photographer who plays hockey

Looking for something else?

Beyond headshots, I also create portraits that capture personality, branding imagery that builds trust, and product photos that highlight every detail. Whatever you need, my goal is to make you feel natural in front of the camera so your visuals stand out.

  • Portraits that feel like you
  • Brand imagery that matches your voice
  • Clean, sharp product photography
  • 2147 S Lumber St
    Chicago, IL, 60616

    It’s in the U-haul Artist Loft building

  • Easy answer: Anywhere!

    I’m generally hanging around Chicagoland, but I do travel around the country when needed.

  • The length of the session is really up to you. If you need to be in and out in 15 minutes, no problem. If you want to hang out, take our time, change outfits, that’s cool too. On average I’d say it’s about an hour for individuals.

    For groups, we generally block 10 minutes per person. That can be adjusted which is why every group is customized.

  • Your favorite outfits! Whatever you feel most comfortable in.

    Generally I’d avoid super bright colors, crazy patterns, etc. But sometimes those work too. So bring what you like, and we’ll see what we can do!

    PDF: What to Wear Guide

  • As many as you can comfortably carry, or just the one you’re wearing. Again, totally up to you here. I’d suggest bringing extra, rather have them and not need them versus the other way around.

AREAS SERVICED

CHICAGOLAND

GRAND RAPIDS, MI

EVANSTON, IL

MERRILLVILLE, IN

NAPERVILLE, IL

SCHAUMBURG, IL

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