Business Headshot Photography in Chicago

In today’s professional world, your headshot is your handshake before you ever speak. Whether you’re a consultant, doctor, realtor, or creative, a polished image communicates confidence and credibility. Business headshot photography in Chicago provides professionals with portraits that resonate on websites, LinkedIn profiles, marketing materials, and more.

At the heart of Chicago’s professional photography scene is John Gress, known for creating images that blend style, personality, and polish. This blog highlights recent business headshots captured in his Chicago studio, showcasing a variety of professions and personal brands.

Confidence & Character Through the Camera

The goal of a business headshot is more than just looking good—it’s about expressing who you are. From lighting to body language, every choice should reflect your unique personality and professional edge.

This image features a female professional styled in a sleeveless maroon top, her subtle smile and soft waves conveying friendliness and focus. Set against a neutral gray background, the look is timeless and effective for diverse professional fields, from marketing to healthcare.
A warm, approachable business headshot styled for maximum versatility across professional industries—from healthcare to creative services.

Executive & Leadership Portraits

Executives and corporate professionals require images that communicate both authority and approachability. These portraits are designed with clean lighting, classic styling, and expressions that project calm confidence—ideal for keynote speakers, medical professionals, and leadership teams.

Business Headshot Photography in Chicago-This vertical portrait captures a business executive exuding elegance and confidence. Dressed in a navy suit with a white shirt, the subject's crossed arms and gentle smile project authority and warmth. The monochromatic background elevates the focus on his expression, ideal for high-level corporate branding or keynote speaker bios.
A poised and elegant business headshot perfect for high-ranking professionals, keynote bios, and corporate branding campaigns.

Polished Headshots for Financial Professionals

Finance and legal professionals need portraits that convey trust and reliability. Crisp suits, clean compositions, and subtle, confident expressions work together to communicate clarity and professionalism. These are perfect for websites, LinkedIn, and business presentations.

Business Headshot Photography in Chicago-Wearing a tailored gray plaid suit and a striped blue tie, this headshot captures a composed and capable energy. The even lighting and soft gradient background lend a polished look suited for finance professionals, attorneys, and senior leadership.
Classic business styling and even lighting create a clean, credible portrait for professionals in finance, law, or senior-level leadership.

Real Estate Professionals Who Stand Out

In real estate, your image is your brand. A great headshot helps establish a welcoming and trustworthy connection with potential clients. Contemporary outfits and warm expressions are essential for this people-focused field.

This classic business headshot features a smiling professional in a light blue textured blazer layered over a patterned shirt. The medium gray background enhances the warmth of his expression and the modern styling, making it perfect for LinkedIn profiles, real estate branding, or corporate websites.
A real estate-ready headshot that blends friendly energy with sharp wardrobe styling for professional branding.

Public-Facing Brand Portraits

For professionals in consulting, coaching, and public speaking, your image must radiate confidence and charisma. With strong eye contact and strategic contrast in wardrobe, this look is ideal for anyone whose personal presence is key to their business.

Here, the subject radiates confidence and charisma, dressed in a light blue blazer over a solid black button-down. His direct eye contact and joyful smile make this headshot ideal for public-facing professionals like consultants, speakers, and corporate leaders.
A headshot with bold presence, ideal for speakers, authors, and consultants looking to connect with their audience.

Multiple Looks, One Powerful Session

Great business headshot photography in Chicago offers variety without needing multiple appointments. A skilled photographer can shift wardrobe, lighting, and background in one session to deliver a suite of versatile portraits tailored for different uses—from professional to lifestyle.

Returning to the first subject, this final image shifts to a rich brown backdrop for warmth and contrast. His blue jacket and black crew-neck shirt pop beautifully, making this variation great for anyone wanting multiple options within a single professional session.
Soft contrast and casual wardrobe create a relaxed, lifestyle-friendly portrait to complement more formal images.

Editorial Portraits for Culinary and Creative Pros

Business headshots aren’t limited to corporate offices. Creatives—like chefs, designers, and artists—benefit from portraits that tell a story. Editorial-style setups in meaningful environments can elevate a professional’s brand and express their unique voice.

In this editorial-style headshot, a female chef stands confidently in a professional kitchen. Dressed in a muted purple turtleneck and green apron with leather straps, she’s backlit by a cinematic glow. The image is strong, narrative-driven, and excellent for branding chefs, creatives, or entrepreneurs.
A cinematic kitchen portrait that blends personal branding with visual storytelling—ideal for chefs and creatives.

Balanced, Modern Branding for Multipurpose Use

A clean headshot with timeless styling is versatile across platforms—from websites to press kits and personal branding. This image uses soft waves and a simple background to convey warmth, approachability, and professionalism in one balanced look.

This image features a female professional styled in a sleeveless maroon top, her subtle smile and soft waves conveying friendliness and focus. Set against a neutral gray background, the look is timeless and effective for diverse professional fields, from marketing to healthcare.
A timeless portrait with a friendly expression and clean backdrop—perfect for consultants, marketers, or healthcare pros.

Approachable Leadership in Professional Portraits

Corporate professionals often need to strike a balance between authority and approachability. This portrait showcases just that—relaxed body language, professional attire, and clean lighting designed for executives, keynote speakers, or medical experts.

Simplicity That Commands Attention

Sometimes the most effective portraits are the most understated. A well-fitted suit, thoughtful expression, and balanced lighting create an image that’s clear, direct, and powerful. Ideal for leadership profiles, medical practices, or thought leadership articles.

Business Headshot Packages

Whether you need one clean image or a full suite of portraits, our headshot packages offer flexibility to suit your goals. Every session includes one retouched image, with options to purchase additional images. Watermarked proofs are delivered within 2–5 business days for selection.

  • 30-Min Session – $249
    1–2 looks · 1 background · 1 retouched image
  • 1-Hour Session – $499
    2–4 outfits · 2–4 backgrounds · 1 retouched image
  • 2-Hour Session – $749
    3–5 looks · 3 retouched images · most popular
  • 3-Hour Session – $1799
    4–7 backgrounds · 15 retouched images · all hi-res

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What Clients Are Saying

“John was highly professional throughout our shoot. He was prompt, prepared, and made the photo session exciting! He truly cares about his job, and I would highly recommend.”
– Amir C.

“John is very professional, personable, and patient during the shoots. I have utilized his photography service on three separate occasions… John also makes it a point to follow up with his clients to see how things have been going in their lives. This makes the experience more personable and comfortable.”
– Cameron M.

“I booked with John when I was about to quit my job… I loved the framing and lighting in his portraits. He made me feel comfortable, directed me when I was nervous, and gave me the confidence boost I needed. I’ve gotten so many compliments on these shots!”
– Erin K.

“I had been wanting to do a shoot with John for quite some time and he did not disappoint! His studio provided a very comfortable and welcoming atmosphere and my images came out exactly how I imagined.”
— D Leonard

“My photos turned out beautifully and very professional looking. John made me feel comfortable in front of the camera which for me is always a challenge.”
— Shari S

Ready to Elevate Your Professional Presence?

Your headshot is your first impression—it’s more than just a photo, it’s your handshake, your brand, and your introduction. Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder, launching a business, or expanding your personal brand, Business Headshot Photography in Chicago can make all the difference.

Let’s collaborate to create headshots that speak volumes—polished, intentional, and uniquely you. Book your session today and take the first step toward a more professional tomorrow.

Book Your Session Today!