Headshot Prep Guide

This guide will walk you through some helpful tips for getting the most out of your headshot session. First impression lasts so be prepared to look your best to give that best impression to important people!

WHAT TO WEAR

We know that determining what to wear is just as difficult as finding the right photographer. Even though your face is the focus of your headshots, what you wear still matters. The most important thing to remember when choosing your clothing is to be sure that it fits properly. Don't buy clothing based on the size or number on the tag, choose clothing because it fits- tailored and well-fitting clothing will go a long way in a photograph.

CLOTHING TIPS FOR WOMEN

Avoid Too Much Distraction

Patterns, logos, and loud accessories will all take the focus off your face, which is why it's best to stick to solid color tops and blouses and toned-down accessories. It's also best not to wear tops that are too low cut as it will have the same effect.

Make Sure it Fits You Well

Even though your headshots only focus on the upper half of your body, it's still important to make sure your top or blouse fits well as this looks the most professional.

Long Sleeves are Better

Short sleeves add skin to the edge of a headshot, and can also be distracting, which is why long sleeves are better.

Avoid Transparent Clothing

Since you will be taking photos in proper lighting, make sure that your top won't be transparent in bright light.

CLOTHING TIPS FOR MEN

Opt for Solid Colors

Solid colors are always better. Not only do they look more professional but they’re not distracting.

Think Twice About White

A white shirt is certainly professional but keep in mind that does reflect more light. If you are going to wear a white shirt, then it is better to wear something darker over it too.

Fitted is Better

Whatever you wear, make sure it fits you well. Baggy, loose clothing just looks unprofessional. This is also why it’s important to choose and try on any outfits a few days before your shoot – it gives you the chance to tailor your shirt and jacket or come up with a plan B.

Undershirts Are Not Recommended

You might wear an undershirt daily, but they do tend to show up in photos since brighter lighting is used. It’s best to skip the undershirt for your headshots.

Uniforms, Suits & Ties

If you're required to wear uniform or expected to wear suit a work, be sure to bring them. Bring along a few different tie options and I can help you choose if needed!

CLOTHING COLOR GUIDE

START WITH A NEUTRAL OR SOLID COLOR

Basing your outfit on a neutral or solid color will ensure you don't overwhelm the frame. Think white, cream, black, or navy blue. The colors that look best in photographs are neutrals (khaki, ivory and brown), dark colors (black, grey and navy) and jewel tones (blues, reds, greens) because they look great with most skin tones and hair colors.

CONTRAST FOR BLACK AND WHITE

If you plan to take black and white headshots, choose contrasting colors. For example, if you're planning to wear a white shirt, opt for a black or navy blazer. Wearing a lighter shirt with an equally light jacket won't work for this style of photography.

KEEP COLOR COMBOS SIMPLE

Layering is great for adding interest to your headshots, but if you're going to do it, make sure your color combinations work well together.

REDUCE LIGHT REFLECTION USING DEEP COLORS

If you're planning to have your headshot photo session outdoors, choose deeper colors instead of pale, light colors to avoid looking washed out due to light reflection.

CONSIDER BRANDING

If your headshots will be used on your website and marketing material, consider your brand colors. Find small ways to work these colors into your outfit so that your photos are complementary. If your company's main color is yellow and you need to stay within their constraints, bring on the sunshine!

FACIAL GROOMING

Facial grooming should be your main concern since these photos will be close-up and focused on your face, so be sure to groom your eyebrows, beard, mustache, neck area, and even your nose and ears! (This goes for men and ladies!)

Facial tips for guys and ladies:

  • Remove makeup and cleanse your face daily before bed.

  • Cleanse and moisturize your skin with great products. (I use makeup remover wipes, then cleanser and moisturizer every night.. then this moisturizer every morning!)

  • Use a gentle scrub about twice a week for a couple of weeks leading up to your session to get rid of deep-dirt. (Here's the scrub I use!)

  • Don't use products with sunscreen on the day of your session if at all possible.

MAKEUP

I have a professional makeup artist that can be scheduled if you'd like, however if you want to do your own makeup, just follow a few simple rules:

  • No sunscreen, please. I will be using a mixture of natural light and lighting equipment during your session. Light reflections and bounce-back can be an issue with some makeup products... The shiny particles in sunscreen can make it seem that you applied glitter to your face for your photos... unless you're 12 or younger, you don't want that!

  • Don't use too much of anything... cake-ing on your makeup, powder, blush, eyeliner, concealer etc to cover up blemishes will not look good on camera... there's Photoshop for that! And be sure that eyeliner and mascara aren't clumpy!

  • Ensure your foundation and powder color matches your skin.. the last thing you want is for your face and neck to be completely different colors! And be sure to blend foundation and powder lines well.

  • Enhance your best features! For most people, this means their eyes or teeth.. use proper amounts and colors of eye shadow/liner/mascara/lipstick to make them pop! Just becareful not to look like you're straight out of an 80's ad! lol!

  • Don't overuse countouring, highlights or bronzer (feel free to bring it with you and I can help if anything is needed)

  • Don't cover up all your freckles, birthmarks or beautymarks... but don't make fake ones either! Yes, that's become a 'thing' lately and it won't stand the test of time.. just be yourself!

  • My retoucher and I can fix a lot of things in Photoshop, but nothing takes longer and is more aggravating than bad makeup! Bring your makeup basics with you in case there are things we need to change. For touch-ups during the session, I'll have oil-blotters but be sure to bring your powder, blush, different shades of lip color and pack different styles like mattes and glosses to give different looks in your photos!

HAIR

FOR WOMEN

Go Pro

Ideally, if you have some extra budget, it's highly recommended that you hire a professional to assist you with your hair on the day of the session.

Don't Make Big Changes at the Wrong Time

If you are planning to cut or color your hair for your headshots, don't do it too close to your session. You never know when something might go wrong, or you aren't happy with your new look.

Opt for a Natural Style

Not only should you feel comfortable, but people should still be able to recognize you. Opt for a hairstyle that you would likely wear to work. Up styles can really open up your face and neck.

Don't Go Crazy with the Curls

Curling your hair for your headshots is fine, but don't go overboard, not if you want your photos to still look like you.

Hairspray is Your Friend

We've all had to deal with fly-aways but they're not ideal for your headshot session as they can be difficult to edit out. Have a small can of hairspray on hand.

FOR MEN

Choose Your Appointment Date Wisely

If you are going to cut your hair before your headshot session, don’t do it the day before. Cutting your hair a few days before ensures the lines look a bit more natural. It also gives your hair a chance to recover should something go wrong.

Shave at the Right Time

If you generally shave the hair on your head every few days, shave it a day or two before your session for the best results.

Avoid Razor Burn

While your face should look neat the day of your session, you also want to avoid razor burn. Whether you’re shaving your face clean or simply tidying up your facial hair, use the right shaving cream and moisturize your face afterward.

Tidy Up Ear and Nose Hair

Don’t forget to trim any nose and ear hair before your session.

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS & TIPS

OVERALL LOOK

Some clients know exactly what style of photos they're looking to achieve, yet others have no idea! Whether you have an idea or not, a good place to start is Pinterest... You can start an account (or board) on Pinterest and share it with me or you can so a few screenshots of things that you've seen of other people that you like (or dislike!) so I can see what's in your head!

PROPS

Feel free to bring along anything you’d like to incorporate into your session that will help tell 'your story' or accentuate the things you want to show off in your photos.

Just keep in mind that adding in too many props can get a little overwhelming and move the focus from 'all about you' to 'all the things'... simplicity is always best when props are involved!

BACKDROPS & FURNITURE

I have several backdrops in an array of colors that we'll choose from based on the answers on your questionnaire and the wardrobe items you bring. I also have several chairs, couches, stools, and other furniture that we'll use for posing... if you have something specific you'd like to use, feel free to bring it along!

PRACTICE

Practicing your facial expressions for different emotions and body language in the mirror will help more than you can imagine!

Most people worry about their smile looking too cheesy or not being able to do a 'straight face', so practicing helps! HOWEVER.... I don't want you to go overboard and feel like you're posing on the red carpet for a movie premiere or the cover of Vogue! Models and actors are very aware of their body and face because they're trained to be.. that's not what I want from you! I want you to be natural and yourself... if you're a naturally smiley, giggley and bubbly person, it will likely be a little difficult for you to do a serious look, but I promise I'll coach you through it if that's the look you want in the photos!

The best way to practice is to think of different emotion-evoking words and use your face to 'say it without saying it'... here are a few to get you started: joyful, excited, flirting, embarrassed, charming, surprised, confident or determined.

SLEEP & RELAX

Photos can show stress and anxiety, so take it easy. Try listening to your favorite songs to help yourself feel relaxed before your session. And, of course, nothing makes you more feel rested than a good sleep the night before your shoot!

STYLE GUIDE

WOMEN

  • This is the most classic look for business headshots. Make sure you choose a well-fitting blazer that accentuates your body shape, as this will be the key item to this look. Styling the blazer with simple black trousers and a white blouse brings this outfit together.

  • A skirt and blouse option is a perfect combination for the woman looking for a more feminine style. This outfit here is a great example of a monochromatic look, using different tones of neutral beige throughout the outfit. If you're looking to add a little personality to this outfit, a silk scarf is a great accessory to give this look a little flair.

  • White is a great option for those looking for something a little more carefree. I love pairing a white silk blouse with jeans and nude shoes, which gives your look a little more of an unassuming feel. If you're looking to add a tailored aspect to this style, throw on a white blazer, which screams statement item.

MEN

  • Those in more professional industries will want to opt for a more conservative look such as this. Don't forget to accessorize, these items add important details to your look. Brown leather shoes and a belt pair nicely next to the navy which will elevate your style

  • This look takes a light khaki blazer, a subtle barely there plaid print and pairs it with chinos and a classic chambray shirt, making the outfit read a bit more casual. This is a great option for the man who might not need to look as conservative in his headshots.

  • For business casual looks or those in a more creative industry, try this look. Pairing the bomber with a polo, like this sweater knit, will give you the option of going sans jacket in your shots. Keep your accessories simple with classic white sneakers and a watch to round out the look.

A professional headshot can do wonders for your career and brand and nailing one requires careful preparation….
and looking your best boosts your confidence which will reflect in your headshot!

I hope this guide has helped you to feel more prepared for your headshot session!

Feel free to reach out with any questions!