Why Your ERAS Headshot Matters
Applying for medical residencies is a nerve-wracking time in your medical career. One key element of your application that can help boost your confidence is a strong, professional headshot to upload in ERAS (Electronic Residency Application Service) This headshot isn’t just any photo; it’s the first impression you’ll give the decision-makers at residency programs, and it should represent both your personality and your professionalism. The work you’ve done and the knowledge you’ve gained so far are your most important qualifications, but don’t let an unprofessional or rushed headshot keep you from presenting yourself at your best.
Investing in a professional headshot ensures you look polished and ready
for the next step in your medical career.
Why Choose My Studio for Your ERAS Headshot?
Since St. Louis is home to some of the country’s best medical programs, I’ve been working with medical students for years to create strong, professional headshots that help them stand out in their residency applications.
My experience means I know exactly what residency programs are looking for in an ERAS headshot. I work closely with each client to ensure they get the best poses and expressions, so you look your professional best, even if you’ve never had professional headshots before. By working with me, you will be working with someone who understands the specific needs of medical students (and who cares how you look in your final ERAS shot.)
I want to help you put your best face forward in your residency application. Whether you’re from Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, or any other of the programs in the area, I am here to help you succeed with a standout ERAS headshot.
What to Expect at an ERAS Headshot Session
An ERAS-style shoot falls within our Standard Headshot package, and we will plan your shoot to meet the requirements of the ERAS system. Here’s what you can expect:
- Time-Efficient Sessions: This session lasts between 60 to 90 minutes, providing plenty of time to capture the perfect shots without overwhelming your schedule.
- Versatile Backgrounds and Lighting: We use several neutral backdrops and different lighting styles to ensure your headshots meet the ERAS requirements and present you in the best light.
- High-Resolution Images: The package includes three retouched, high-resolution digital images ready for download. These images are perfect for ERAS, LinkedIn, and other professional platforms.
Preparing for Your ERAS Headshot
Choosing the right outfit is important. ERAS asks you to wear charcoal, navy, and black bl
azers, and solid-color shirts, blouses, and ties. Aim for something professional yet comfortable, that reflects your personality without distracting from your face. Think classic blazers, no patterns, and colors that complement your skin tone. Jewelry should be classic and minimal. You’re going to look your best if you feel comfortable, so pick an outfit that makes you feel confident and at ease. (Do double-check that it still fits and is clean, before the session.)
Once you’ve booked a date and time, I’ll send you an email with more prep tips to help you get the best out of your session. These tips cover everything from clothing choices to grooming, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your headshot.
A Personal Touch
Capturing your personality is essential, even for your professional and business shots. Then, I also encourage my ERAS clients to bring one extra outfit, something casual like your favorite jeans and a sweater, or a favorite formal dress or suit. After we’ve taken the professional shots, we’ll also capture a more casual portrait. This casual photo is perfect for social media, dating profiles, or just as a memento of this time in your life.
It’s a great opportunity to mark the end of your medical school journey. Sometimes I even work with students on the same day they took their last exam of medical school—what a great milestone to capture! This is a period of your life that is definitely worth preserving in a professional portrait, celebrating your hard work and dedication. (Plus, your parents will love it.)
Technical Requirements
We keep all the ERAS headshot parameters in mind as we shoot. The final photo must meet specific technical criteria to ensure it uploads correctly and looks professional:
- Dimensions: 2.5 x 3.5 inches
- Resolution: 150 dpi
- File Size: Less than 100KB
- Background: Light, neutral background preferred
- Frame: Face centered, front-view, with head and shoulders visible
Booking Your Session
Ready to put your best face forward? Book your ERAS headshot session today and let us help you create a standout image that captures your professionalism and personality. Reach out to schedule your session and get ready to impress with your polished, professional (and successful!) residency application.
Your journey to becoming a medical professional is a momentous one, and your ERAS headshot is a big part of that process. Let’s make sure you look your best, feel confident, and leave a lasting impression on residency programs. I look forward to working with you and capturing this exciting time in your life!
Note: Every session with me is designed to be a safe space for persons of different backgrounds, identities, and experiences. I believe in creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable and respected. Whether you’re a person of color, LGBTQ+, have an alternate gender presentation, or have any other unique attributes, you can be assured that your individuality will be celebrated and honored in your headshots. My goal is to capture the true essence of who you are, ensuring that your photos reflect not just your professionalism, but also your authentic self.
