How Should I Prepare For My Headshots?

General Clothing Tips

• Keep it simple. Solid colors generally photograph best. Avoid busy patterns, large logos, and very fine stripes or checks that might distract from your face.
• Fit matters. Choose clothing that fits comfortably and looks well-tailored. Avoid anything excessively loose or tight.
• Layers work well. Blazers, jackets, and cardigans can add structure, texture, and personality to your portrait.
• Watch the wrinkles. Arrive with clothing clean and pressed. Bring jackets and shirts on hangers whenever possible. A clothing rack is available at the studio.
• Consider your neckline. Collars, crew necks, and V-necks can all work beautifully. Choose something that flatters you and feels comfortable.
• Think about your backdrop. Clothing that contrasts with your selected background generally works best. For example, a gray jacket may blend into a similarly colored gray backdrop.

Business & Corporate Headshots

Choose polished, well-fitting clothing that reflects your profession and the impression you want to make.

Blazers, jackets, button-down shirts, and structured tops are all excellent choices. A tie is optional unless your profession or intended use calls for one.

Navy, charcoal, burgundy, olive, and other classic colors often photograph beautifully. Choose a color that complements your complexion and works with your selected backdrop.

Casual & Personal Branding Headshots

Personal branding portraits offer a little more room to express your personality. The goal is to look like yourself while presenting the image you want others to see.

Consider clothing that reflects your style, whether that’s a favorite jacket, a cardigan, a textured sweater, or a simple, well-fitting shirt.

Colors, layers, and accessories can help communicate your personality. Just make sure they complement rather than overwhelm you.

Acting Headshots

For acting headshots, your face and expression should remain the focus. Clothing should support the types of roles you’re pursuing without competing for attention.

Simple, well-fitting tops are usually excellent choices. Solid colors and jewel tones often work well, although the best color depends on your complexion, the background, and the look you’re trying to achieve.

Keep accessories understated unless they’re an intentional part of your look.

Choosing Clothing Colors

Choose colors that complement your complexion and make you feel confident. Rich, saturated colors often photograph beautifully, but neutrals and softer tones can work equally well.

There’s no single perfect color for everyone. Your skin tone, hair color, personal style, and selected backdrop all contribute to the finished look.

When in doubt, choose a color you already know looks good on you.

Hair & Grooming

• Arrive with your hair clean and styled as you’d like it photographed.
• Use a little styling product if needed to control flyaways or frizz. Some stray hairs can be corrected during editing, but a little preparation makes a difference.
• If you have facial hair, shave or groom it according to how you’d like to appear in your finished photographs.
• Avoid experimenting with an unfamiliar haircut or hairstyle immediately before your session.

Makeup & Skin

• Keep it natural. Makeup that enhances your features generally photographs better than a dramatically different look.
• Watch excessive shine. If you’re concerned about reflections, consider a matte or satin finish. A little translucent powder can help reduce unwanted shine.
• Go easy on glitter. Highly reflective or sparkly products can catch studio lighting in ways you might not expect.
• Prepare your skin normally. Moisturize as needed and avoid trying unfamiliar skincare products right before your appointment.

A Few Final Tips

• Get a good night’s sleep before your session.
• Stay hydrated and follow your usual skincare routine.
• Arrive with your booked outfits ready and allow yourself enough travel time to avoid feeling rushed.
• Don’t worry about knowing how to pose. I’ll guide you through your session.