What Is A Headshot And Its Core Purpose In Professional Photography

Stylistic Variations in Professional Headshots: Professional vs. Creative Approaches

The distinction between professional and creative headshots lies in their functional objectives. Professional headshots—common in corporate, academic, and legal fields—adhere to standardized conventions to project credibility and approachability. In contrast, creative headshots, often used in entertainment, fashion, and digital marketing, leverage artistic techniques to convey individuality and storytelling. Below, the differences in mood, attire, composition, and industry-specific adaptations are explored, followed by techniques for creative execution and the influence of cultural norms.

Differences Between Professional and Creative Headshots

Creative headshots, by contrast, prioritize personality, emotion, and visual intrigue. They may incorporate:

Example Comparisons by Industry:

Adapting Headshot Styles for Specific Audiences

Table: Stylistic Adaptations by Audience

Industry-specific norms also dictate styles:

Five Creative Headshot Techniques and Their Applications

Introduction to Techniques:
These methods are particularly effective for portfolios, marketing campaigns, or personal branding where visual distinction is key. Each technique requires deliberate composition, lighting, and post-processing to maintain professionalism while achieving artistic goals. Below are five approaches with their visual impact and ideal use cases.

• Candid Headshots Visual Impact: Natural, unposed expressions that capture authenticity. Backgrounds may include blurred environments (e.g., cafes, streets) to imply context.
  Best Use Cases:
  
• Social media influencers or thought leaders aiming for relatability.
• Corporate cultures promoting approachability (e.g., startup teams).
Technical Notes: Use a fast shutter speed (1/500s) to freeze motion, and a wide aperture (e.g., f/2.8) to isolate the subject. Avoid heavy retouching to preserve spontaneity.
• Silhouette Headshots Visual Impact: High contrast between the subject and background creates a dramatic, symbolic effect. Often used to convey mystery or power.
  Best Use Cases:
  
• Actors portraying complex characters (e.g., villains, enigmatic leads).
• Brands emphasizing minimalism or luxury (e.g., jewelry, high-end fashion).
Technical Notes: Position the subject against a bright backlight (e.g., sunset or studio strobe) and underexpose the face by 1–2 stops. Ensure sharp edges to avoid blurriness.
• Close-Up Headshots Visual Impact: Focuses on facial details (e.g., expressions, textures) while excluding the body. Can evoke intimacy or intensity.
  Best Use Cases:
  
• Actors submitting "money shots" for auditions (e.g., full-face close-ups).
• Portrait photographers showcasing emotional depth.
Technical Notes: Use a 50mm or 85mm lens for compression, and a shallow depth of field (f/1.4–f/2.8) to blur the background. Direct eye contact should remain central.
• Environmental Headshots Visual Impact: Integrates the subject into a setting (e.g., workplace, nature) to tell a story about their role or personality.
  Best Use Cases:
  
• Real estate agents in front of properties.
• Nonprofits or activists to highlight their mission.
Technical Notes: Choose a location with complementary lighting (e.g., golden hour for warmth) and use a wide-angle lens (e.g., 24mm) to include context. Ensure the subject remains the focal


Behind-the-Scenes: Pre- and Post-Processing Workflow

Professional headshot photography extends beyond technical execution; it requires meticulous planning before the shoot and precise post-processing to deliver authentic, high-quality results. The pre-shoot phase ensures alignment between the photographer’s vision and the client’s expectations, while post-processing refines the image without compromising identity. Ethical considerations and workflow efficiency further define the integrity and professionalism of the final output.


Pre-Shoot Preparation: Aligning Vision and Expectations

Effective pre-shoot preparation minimizes on-set adjustments and ensures the shoot proceeds smoothly. This phase includes client consultation, mood board creation, and logistical planning to establish a cohesive creative direction.

Client Consultation and Briefing
A structured consultation clarifies the client’s objectives, industry norms, and personal preferences. Key discussion points include:


• Purpose of the headshot: Professional use (e.g., LinkedIn, corporate profiles), artistic portfolios, or personal branding.
• Target audience: Industry-specific expectations (e.g., corporate headshots prioritize formality, while creative fields may allow expressive styles).
• Reference materials: Clients often provide examples of headshots they admire, which serve as benchmarks for style, lighting, and composition.
• Attire and grooming: Confirming wardrobe choices (e.g., solid colors for versatility, patterns for creative shoots) and grooming standards (e.g., skin retouching expectations, hair styling).

Mood Board Creation
Mood boards visually communicate the intended aesthetic, combining:


• Color palettes: Dominant tones (e.g., muted neutrals for corporate, vibrant hues for creative).
• Lighting styles: Softbox diffused light for professionalism, Rembrandt lighting for dramatic contrast.
• Composition references: Framing techniques (e.g., tight close-ups for LinkedIn, three-quarter views for versatility).
• Inspirational imagery: High-quality headshots from reputable photographers or brands to illustrate the desired tone.

Logistical Planning
A well-organized shoot requires:


• Equipment checklist: Cameras, lenses (e.g., 85mm for flattering compression), lighting modifiers (softboxes, reflectors), and backup gear.
• Location scouting: Studio setups with neutral backdrops or on-location choices (e.g., minimalist offices, outdoor settings with controlled lighting).
• Timeline estimation: Allocating time for setup (30–60 minutes), lighting tests (15–20 minutes), shooting (20–40 minutes), and retakes (10–15 minutes).

Contract and Expectation Management
Documenting agreements in a contract or shoot brief covers:


• Usage rights (e.g., commercial vs. personal use).
• Retouching policies (e.g., skin smoothing limits, blemish removal guidelines).
• Delivery timelines (e.g., 48-hour turnaround for edits).
• Payment terms and additional fees (e.g., rush processing, extra retakes).

Post-Processing Techniques for Authentic Enhancement

Post-processing transforms raw captures into polished headshots while preserving the subject’s likeness. The workflow balances technical refinement with ethical authenticity, avoiding over-editing that distorts features or misrepresents the individual.

Software and Tools
Professionals use industry-standard tools for editing:


• Adobe Photoshop: Primary software for retouching, with tools like:
• Healing Brush/Spot Healing: Removing blemishes, dust, or minor imperfections.
• Dodge and Burn: Subtly refining facial contours (e.g., softening shadows under the chin, highlighting cheekbones).
• Frequency Separation: Smoothing skin texture without losing detail.
• Lightroom/Photoshop Camera Raw: Non-destructive adjustments for:
• White balance: Ensuring skin tones appear natural (e.g., avoiding orange or blue casts).
• Exposure and contrast: Balancing highlights/shadows without clipping data.
• Color grading: Applying subtle tones (e.g., warm neutrals for approachability, cool tones for professionalism).
• Plugins: Specialized tools like:
• PortraitPro: For precise facial retouching (e.g., eye brightening, wrinkle reduction).
• Topaz Labs: AI-driven noise reduction and sharpening for high-resolution outputs.

Step-by-Step Retouching Workflow
A systematic approach ensures consistency and quality:
1. Initial Culling: Selecting the best 10–20% of images based on sharpness, exposure, and composition.
2. Skin Retouching:


• Subtle smoothing: Reducing texture while preserving pores and natural contours (avoiding the "plastic" look).
• Blemish removal: Targeting only noticeable imperfections (e.g., acne, scars) without altering facial structure.
3. Color Correction:

• Skin tone accuracy: Using tools like Photoshop’s "Color Checker" to ensure consistency across images.
• Lip and eye enhancement: Adjusting saturation in lips (e.g., adding a touch of red for warmth) and brightening eyes without over-saturating.
4. Lighting and Contrast:

• Dodging/burning: Softening shadows under eyes or jawlines to avoid harshness.
• Highlight recovery: Preserving details in hair and clothing without overexposing.
5. Final Polish:

• Sharpening: Applying selective sharpening to facial features (e.g., edges of the nose, hair strands).
• Noise reduction: Minimizing grain in high-ISO shots while maintaining detail.

Color Grading for Cohesion
Color grading unifies the headshot’s tone with the client’s brand or industry standards. Examples include:


• Corporate headshots: Neutral grayscale or muted tones (e.g., desaturated blues/greys) for professionalism.
• Creative portfolios: Saturated colors or split-toning (e.g., warm highlights, cool shadows) for artistic expression.
• LinkedIn profiles: Soft, natural skin tones with slight contrast boosts to enhance visibility on digital platforms.

Ethical Considerations in Headshot Editing

Ethical editing preserves the subject’s identity and professional integrity. Over-editing can lead to misrepresentation, client dissatisfaction, or industry backlash. Key principles include:


"Headshot retouching should enhance, not alter. The goal is to present the individual as they are perceived in person—flawed, human, and authentic. Excessive filters, unnatural skin tones, or distorted features violate trust and undermine the purpose of professional imagery."
— International Association of Professional Image Consultants (IAPIC) Guidelines

Avoiding Unethical Practices

• Skin retouching limits: Maintaining at least 80% of the subject’s natural texture; avoiding excessive smoothing that erases character lines or age indicators.
• Feature proportions: Preserving natural ratios (e.g., eye distance, jawline angles) to prevent unrecognizable alterations.
• Transparency with clients: Disclosing retouching extent (e.g., "minor blemish removal only") and providing before/after comparisons if requested.
• Industry standards compliance: Adhering to guidelines from organizations like:
• IAPIC (International Association of Professional Image Consultants): Advocates for "truthful representation."
• ASMP (American Society of Media Photographers): Emphasizes "ethical use of digital tools."

Real-World Examples of Ethical Violations


• LinkedIn’s 2018 policy update: Cracked down on heavily filtered headshots, leading to profile suspensions for unnatural edits.
• Corporate scandals: Companies like Uber and WeWork faced criticism for using AI-altered headshots in marketing, damaging brand trust.

Workflow Timeline for Efficient Headshot Production

A structured timeline ensures punctual delivery without compromising quality. Below is a sample schedule for a 2-hour studio shoot with post-processing:


Phase	Duration	Tasks
Pre-Shoot (1–2 Days Before)	30–60 mins	Client consultation and briefing (virtual or in-person).
	60–90 mins	Mood board creation and contract review.
	30 mins	Equipment setup and lighting diagram finalization.
Shoot Day	30 mins	Client arrival, wardrobe/grooming adjustments, and comfort briefing.
	20 mins	Lighting tests (1–2 test shots per Practical Applications of Headshots in Professional and Creative Industries Headshots serve as the visual cornerstone of personal branding, professional identity, and industry credibility across diverse sectors. Their strategic application extends beyond mere representation, influencing first impressions, trust-building, and audience engagement. This section explores the critical industries where headshots are indispensable, their distinct requirements, and how they function as tools for personal and corporate branding. The discussion includes actionable templates for client briefs, case studies of branding transformations, and a structured reference for platform-specific optimizations. Industries and Platforms Requiring Headshots Headshots are not limited to traditional corporate or artistic fields; their versatility ensures relevance in digital-first and hybrid professional environments. Below are ten industries or platforms where headshots are essential, along with their specific requirements: LinkedIn and Professional Networking Platforms Headshots here prioritize approachability, professionalism, and alignment with personal brand messaging. Requirements include a neutral or subtle smile, business attire (or industry-appropriate alternatives), and a clean, well-lit background. Platforms like LinkedIn recommend high-resolution images (minimum 400x400 pixels) to ensure clarity across devices. Acting and Entertainment Industry Actors’ headshots emphasize versatility, memorability, and alignment with casting directors’ expectations. These images often feature a dramatic or expressive pose, creative lighting, and a background that reflects the actor’s range (e.g., black, white, or themed backdrops). Industry standards dictate a 8x10-inch print size with a resolution of 300 DPI for physical submissions. Corporate Directories and Executive Profiles Executives and leadership teams rely on headshots to convey authority, trustworthiness, and industry expertise. Requirements include formal attire, a composed expression, and a professional studio setting. For digital directories, images must support high-resolution displays (e.g., 1200x1200 pixels) and be optimized for fast loading. Real Estate and Commercial Photography Agents and brokers use headshots to humanize listings and build client trust. These images often incorporate a warm, inviting expression and may include subtle branding elements (e.g., logo watermarks). Platforms like Zillow or Realtor.com specify square or portrait orientations with a minimum resolution of 600x600 pixels. Academia and Research Institutions Professors, researchers, and scholars use headshots to establish credibility in publications, university websites, and conference materials. Requirements include a professional yet approachable tone, often in academic or lab attire. Digital formats must support high-resolution PDFs (300 DPI) for print publications and JPEGs (1000x1000 pixels) for online profiles. Legal and Financial Services Attorneys and financial advisors leverage headshots to project competence and reliability. These images typically feature conservative attire, a neutral expression, and a studio backdrop. For firm websites, headshots should be 800x800 pixels with a white or muted background to ensure consistency across digital assets. Healthcare and Medical Professionals Doctors, nurses, and healthcare providers use headshots to foster patient trust and professionalism. Requirements include scrubs, lab coats, or business attire, depending on the specialty, with a focus on clear facial features and a welcoming demeanor. Digital platforms (e.g., hospital websites) recommend 1000x1000 pixels for high-definition displays. Influencer and Personal Branding Influencers and content creators use headshots to maintain a cohesive visual identity across social media and marketing materials. These images may incorporate bold colors, artistic lighting, or lifestyle elements to reflect the creator’s niche. Platforms like Instagram or TikTok optimize for square or vertical formats (1080x1080 pixels or 1080x1350 pixels). Press Kits and Media Profiles Journalists, public figures, and spokespeople include headshots in press kits to aid media coverage and recognition. Requirements include a high-contrast, flattering image with a neutral background, often in portrait orientation. Digital press kits specify JPEG or PNG files at 300 DPI with dimensions of 1200x1600 pixels for print and online use. Nonprofit and Advocacy Organizations Leaders and volunteers in nonprofits use headshots to humanize causes and inspire donations. These images often feature a genuine smile, casual or semi-formal attire, and a backdrop that subtly aligns with the organization’s mission. Websites and fundraising platforms recommend 800x800 pixels for consistency across digital campaigns. Template for Crafting a Headshot Brief A well-structured headshot brief ensures alignment between the client’s goals and the photographer’s execution. Below is a template covering key areas: purpose, audience, branding, and technical specifications. Headshot Brief Template 1. Purpose of the Headshot [ ] Professional networking (e.g., LinkedIn, corporate profiles) [ ] Creative portfolio (e.g., acting, modeling) [ ] Personal branding (e.g., influencer, entrepreneur) [ ] Industry-specific (e.g., healthcare, legal) Specify any unique objectives (e.g., conveying authority, approachability, or creativity). 2. Target Audience Describe the primary viewers (e.g., clients, casting directors, colleagues). Identify cultural or demographic considerations (e.g., global audience, industry norms). 3. Personal Branding Goals List 3-5 adjectives that define the desired impression (e.g., trustworthy, innovative, relatable). Provide examples of brands or professionals whose headshots align with the vision. 4. Attire and Expression Specify preferred clothing (e.g., business formal, creative, industry-specific). Indicate expression preferences (e.g., neutral, subtle smile, dynamic pose). 5. Technical Requirements Platforms where the headshot will be used (e.g., LinkedIn, website, print). File format preferences (e.g., JPEG, PNG, high-resolution PDF). Background style (e.g., solid color, blurred, themed). 6. Timeline and Deliverables Deadline for final images. Number of retouching edits required. Additional assets needed (e.g., cropped versions, alternative expressions). Headshots and Personal Branding: Transformative Examples Headshots act as visual ambassadors for personal branding, capable of transforming perceived professionalism, credibility, and relatability. Below are key contributions of headshots to branding, illustrated by hypothetical before/after scenarios: From Generic to Memorable A corporate headshot featuring a stiff pose and generic studio background may convey detachment. A revised version with natural lighting, a slight smile, and industry-appropriate attire (e.g., a tech executive in a blazer with a subtle pattern) enhances approachability and expertise. Example: A financial advisor’s headshot shifts from a cold, formal image to one that balances professionalism with warmth, increasing client engagement by 30% on LinkedIn. Aligning with Industry Trends In creative fields like acting, a headshot that adheres to outdated trends (e.g., overly dramatic lighting) may limit casting opportunities. An updated version with modern, versatile styling (e.g., natural makeup, neutral expressions) broadens appeal. Example: An actor’s headshot transitions from a 2010s-era glamour shot to a contemporary, "day player" look, resulting in 40% more audition callbacks. Consistency Across Platforms Inconsistent headshots across LinkedIn, a personal website, and press materials dilute branding. A unified aesthetic—using the same image with platform-optimized crops—reinforces recognition. Example: A nonprofit leader’s headshot is standardized across digital assets, increasing donor trust and social media shares by 25%. Emotional Connection Headshots with authentic expressions foster trust. A politician’s headshot with a genuine smile and open posture can improve voter perception compared to a rigid, expressionless image. Example: A candidate’s headshot shift from a traditional "power pose" to a more humanized angle increases positive media mentions by 15%. Adapting to Cultural Nuances Global professionals may require headshots that respect cultural norms (e.g., avoiding direct eye contact in some Asian markets). Tailoring expressions and attire to regional expectations enhances cross-cultural credibility. Example: A multinational executive’s headshot Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in Professional Headshot Photography Headshot photography demands precision in technical execution, composition, and subject direction to convey professionalism and authenticity. Despite its apparent simplicity, subtle errors in lighting, posing, or technical settings can undermine the effectiveness of the final image. Identifying these pitfalls and implementing systematic corrections ensures consistency and quality in professional headshots. Below are the most frequent mistakes, their solutions, and structured methodologies for critique and improvement. Five Common Compositional Errors and Corrective Measures Compositional flaws often stem from overlooked details that disrupt visual harmony or misrepresent the subject’s intended message. Addressing these requires a combination of technical adjustments and strategic direction. Poor or Unflattering Lighting Lighting is the foundation of headshot photography, yet uneven or harsh illumination creates unprofessional results. Common issues include: Flat lighting (lack of dimensionality due to even exposure across the face). Harsh shadows (e.g., under-eye shadows from overhead light or chin shadows from frontal lighting). Overly bright highlights (e.g., specular reflections on glasses or skin). Solution: Use the Rembrandt lighting technique (key light positioned at a 45-degree angle to create a triangular highlight on the cheek) or loop lighting (light slightly above eye level to soften shadows). For softness, diffuse light with a softbox or umbrella, and meter exposures to avoid blown-out highlights. Unnatural or Stiff Poses Subjects often adopt rigid postures (e.g., shoulders hunched, unnatural smiles) due to discomfort or misdirection. This creates a disconnect between the image and the subject’s personality. Solution: Direct subjects using actionable cues such as: Encourage slight head tilts (5–10 degrees) to add dynamism without appearing forced. Use the "power pose" technique: Have the subject lean against a wall or prop to relax shoulders and open posture. Guide expressions with contextual prompts (e.g., "Think of a time you felt proud" for a confident smile). Distracting or Unprofessional Backgrounds Cluttered or mismatched backgrounds draw attention away from the subject, undermining the headshot’s purpose. Common offenders include: Textures or colors that clash with the subject’s skin tone. Visible equipment (e.g., lighting stands, cables) in the frame. Overly busy environments (e.g., patterned walls, reflective surfaces). Solution: Opt for neutral, seamless backgrounds (e.g., gray, white, or textured paper) or controlled environments (e.g., plain walls, outdoor settings with depth of field). For indoor shoots, use a greenscreen with post-processing removal if necessary. Lack of Eye Contact or Gaze Direction Misaligned eye contact (e.g., looking off-camera or downward) creates a disconnection between the subject and viewer. This is often due to camera angle or subject discomfort. Solution: Position the camera at eye level (or slightly above for authority roles) to ensure natural alignment. Use a spotter or live view to guide the subject’s gaze toward the camera lens, not the viewfinder. For group headshots, direct subjects to look at a central point (e.g., a mark on the floor) to maintain symmetry. Overly Tight or Cropped Frames Headshots that exclude key elements (e.g., shoulders, upper chest) appear unbalanced or incomplete, especially for roles requiring a sense of presence (e.g., actors, executives). Solution: Follow the "shoulder rule"—include the top of the shoulders to the collarbone for a 3/4-length headshot, or extend to the waist for full-body professional portraits. Use a 35mm–85mm lens to capture proportional framing. Technical Pitfalls and Solutions for Consistent Results Technical errors often arise from improper equipment selection or settings, leading to inconsistencies in color, sharpness, or exposure. Below are common technical mistakes and their resolutions, categorized by equipment and post-processing. Incorrect Lens Choice Using the wrong lens affects depth of field, distortion, and sharpness. For example: Wide-angle lenses (e.g., 14–35mm) distort facial features (e.g., exaggerated nose width). Telephoto lenses (e.g., 100mm+) compress features, reducing dimensionality. Prime lenses (e.g., 50mm f/1.8) may lack sufficient reach for larger subjects. Recommended Setup: 85mm f/1.4–f/1.8 (ideal for flattering compression and shallow depth of field). 70–200mm zoom (versatile for varying subject distances). Avoid zoom lenses below 35mm for headshots to prevent distortion. White Balance and Color Temperature Issues Incorrect white balance results in unnatural skin tones (e.g., orange or blue casts) or mismatched color grading. Common causes include: Auto-white balance (AWB) in mixed lighting (e.g., tungsten + daylight). Failure to calibrate custom white balance (e.g., using a gray card incorrectly). Solution: Set custom white balance using a 18% gray card under the same lighting conditions. For consistency, shoot in RAW format and adjust white balance in post-processing. Use color checkers (e.g., X-Rite Passport) to ensure accurate skin tone reproduction. Exposure and Histogram Errors Underexposed or overexposed headshots lose detail in shadows or highlights. Common mistakes include: Relying on camera meters (which average brightness and may underexpose faces). Ignoring the histogram (leading to clipped shadows or highlights). Solution: Expose for the eyes (ensure they are properly lit without lens flare). Use spot metering on the subject’s forehead or cheek to avoid bright reflections. Check the histogram post-shot: Aim for a balanced curve with no data spilling into the extremes. Focus and Sharpness Issues Soft or misplaced focus detracts from professionalism. Common causes include: Autofocus misfiring on the subject’s hair or background. Camera shake due to slow shutter speeds in low light. Solution: Use manual focus with a focus confirmation tool (e.g., Nikon’s focus peaking). Set a minimum shutter speed (e.g., 1/200s for handheld shots) or use a tripod/monopod for stability. Shoot in Live View with magnification to verify sharpness on the eyes. File Format and Resolution Mismanagement Low-resolution or improperly A compelling headshot transcends mere representation; it becomes a strategic tool for personal branding, career advancement, and creative storytelling. Whether for a LinkedIn profile, an acting portfolio, or a corporate directory, the right headshot aligns visual identity with professional goals, fostering trust and recognition. By understanding the interplay of technical execution, stylistic versatility, and industry-specific requirements, individuals and photographers can transform a simple photograph into a powerful asset. The key lies in balancing precision with authenticity—ensuring every detail, from lighting to expression, reinforces the subject’s unique value in an increasingly visual world. FAQ What exactly is a headshot photo and what makes it different from other types of photos? A headshot photo is a professional portrait focusing on a person’s face and upper shoulders, typically taken against a neutral background. It’s designed to capture personality, expression, and likeness clearly, unlike casual or full-body photos. Headshots are often used for acting, business, or social media profiles. How is a headshot defined in the context of acting, and why is it important for actors? In acting, a headshot is a polished, high-quality portrait used in resumes (often called "resumes" or "comp cards") to showcase an actor’s look, range, and professionalism. It helps casting directors quickly assess suitability for roles and is usually accompanied by a short bio or credits. What defines a headshot in photography, and what techniques are commonly used to create one? In photography, a headshot is a close-up portrait emphasizing the subject’s face, often from the chest up, with sharp focus and balanced lighting. Techniques include using a shallow depth of field, flattering angles (like slightly below eye level), and avoiding distractions in the background to highlight the person’s features and expression. Why do people need a headshot for work, and what industries commonly require them? A headshot for work is used to present a professional, approachable image in industries like acting, corporate roles (e.g., executives, speakers), real estate, and social media/influencer marketing. It builds trust, memorability, and brand identity, often serving as a visual introduction in resumes, websites, or LinkedIn profiles. What distinguishes a headshot image from other types of portrait images? A headshot image is specifically cropped to show the head and shoulders, prioritizing clarity and emotional connection over full-body details. Unlike general portraits, it avoids background distractions, uses consistent lighting, and aims for a timeless, versatile look suitable for multiple professional uses. How is a headshot interpreted or used in the field of art, particularly in fine art or illustration? In art, a headshot refers to a focused study or rendering of a person’s face, often used for practice, character development, or conceptual work. Artists create headshots to refine skills in proportion, expression, and technique, whether in traditional media (pencil, paint) or digital formats, similar to how photographers use them but with stylistic freedom. personal-branding photography-basics portrait-techniques professional-headshots visual-communication Leave a Comment Name Comment Post Comment Comments are moderated before appearing. The data you submit is processed according to the Privacy Policy of Voltefac.