What to Wear to a Headshot Session

Headshots and Personal Branding Attire

Many of the tips outlined in a previous post apply to headshot and branding sessions, but I wanted to address how dressing for headshots can be a little different:

• One of the most important aspects of your outfits for headshots is your neckline. I recommend bringing tops and dresses that have symmetrical or modest necklines. Round necklines are elegant, classic and professional. V-necks tend to give off a more casual vibe and don’t typically sit as nicely over your shoulders and chest. Round necks are my favorite because they bring attention back up toward your eyes.
• If possible, bring at least one dress to your session. Dresses with a thicker material will fight off wrinkles better than thin dresses. You can absolutely bring patterned or colorful dresses.
• I recommend bringing at least one blazer option. Darker colors (blues, charcoals, blacks) tend to suggest a more traditional professional aesthetic, while brighter neutrals or vivid colors (whites, tans, emerald, blue, coral, etc) tend to suggest a youthful, energetic and approachable aesthetic.
• Bring your jewelry! I’ll help you pair jewelry with your outfits when you arrive to your session.
• Wear natural makeup. Many have had the best results with hiring a professional makeup artist for the occasion (let me know if you need my recommendation!) Avoid heavy eye makeup and/or lip gloss.
• Bring solid colored neutrals and basics that we can mix and match. This will give you a variety of options to choose from and help you create a cohesive look.
• Don’t worry too much about your shoes. Be comfortable instead, and bring a nice pair of shoes just in case if you’d like.
• Be sure to wipe glasses clean, remove lint from clothing, and come ready to remove any watches or items that may bulge from pockets. This will help you look polished and professional in your photos.
• Nails: Finally, don’t forget about your nails! Make sure they are clean and polished, and that the color is appropriate for the occasion. If you are having your headshot taken for a professional setting, I recommend going with a neutral color like pink or nude. If you are having your headshot taken for a more creative or personal setting, you can get away with a more fun or colorful color.

Gentlemen

• Bring options! Bring different ties, different shirts, different suit jackets. This will allow you to try on different combinations and see what looks best on you.
• For casual headshot sessions or actor headshot sessions, bring a basic/soft tee and long sleeve shirt. This will give you a more relaxed look that is still professional.
• Wear white, grey, black, denim, and taupe. These are all neutral colors that will complement your skin tone and hair color. Generally avoid bright neons and very small repetitive patterns (such as really small stripes or checkerboard pattern).
• Apart from neutrals, you’re encouraged to bring/consider a solid color suit/set that will help bring a youthful and approachable look to your portraits. Medium/lighter blues photograph very well. This will help you look professional and put-together.
• Bring something fun if that’s your brand or your personality. If you have a shirt with a fun legible pattern, bring it along! Sometimes a simple colorful jacket or tie can make your headshots stand out in a good way. This will help you show your personality and make your headshot more memorable.
• Don’t wear foundation or powder. This will make your skin look flat and unnatural in photos.
• DO groom your hair and/or facial hair. This will help you look your best in your photos.
• Be sure to wipe glasses clean, remove lint from clothing, and come ready to remove any apple watches or fit bits, wallets, or other items that may distract from your portrait. This will help you look polished and professional in your photos.

Ultimately, the best way to choose what to wear for your headshot session is to dress in a way that makes you feel confident and comfortable. When you feel good about how you look, it will show in your photos.