What makes a good headshot/portrait?

I was chatting with someone today and that person had happened to have a look at some of my work. He said something quite simple that resonated with me and the way I think about my work. Perhaps even gave me an insight into what people may be looking for in a headshot (or portrait) photographer.

He said, and I paraphrase, “Your photos give me a sense that you make it more about the person you are photographing rather than trying to showcase your technique or style.”

Since I started doing headshots and portraiture, I have been looking at the work of several photographers and following some who’s work I like.

The one’s I truly relate to have that in common. The subject is clearly the star. The photos are uncluttered, generally quite minimalistic and without distractions. The power is always with the person being photographed.

Ankur Sabharwal is an Oxford based actor and photographer. All the images featured have been taken by him.