What to Wear for a Headshot Photography Session
Before selecting your outfit, consider the purpose of your headshot. Are you aiming for a corporate look, a creative profile, or a casual yet professional appearance? The context in which the headshot will be used should guide your clothing choices.
Creative and Casual Headshots
For industries like tech, marketing, or the arts, you might want a more relaxed yet professional look:
- Men: A smart-casual shirt, possibly layered with a blazer. Avoid overly loud patterns and opt for a polished but comfortable look.
- Women: A stylish blouse or a well-fitted top with a blazer or cardigan. Again, subtle patterns are acceptable but avoid anything too busy.
For a corporate headshot, you want to exude professionalism and competence. Opt for classic business attire:
- Men: A well-fitted suit in neutral colors such as navy, black, or gray. Pair it with a crisp dress shirt and a tie that adds a touch of color without being overly bold.
- Women: A tailored blazer and blouse or a professional dress. Choose tops with a modest neckline. Stick to solid colors or subtle patterns to avoid distractions.
Color plays a crucial role in how your headshot is perceived. Here are some tips on selecting the right colors:
- Neutral Tones: Shades like black, white, gray, and navy are timeless and convey professionalism.
- Solid Colors: Opt for solid colors over patterns. Patterns can be distracting and may not photograph well.
- Complimentary Colors: Choose colors that complement your skin tone. For example, if you have a warm skin tone, earthy colors like brown, green, and mustard may suit you.
- Avoid Bright Colors: Bright colors can be overpowering and may draw attention away from your face. Stick to more muted tones.
Accessorizing Appropriately
Accessories can enhance your look and add a pop of color, but they should not overpower your outfit:
- Jewelry: Keep it simple and understated. Avoid large, flashy pieces that can distract from your face.
- Ties and Scarves: These can add a touch of personality, but ensure they are not too bold or patterned. A solid color tie or a subtle pattern works best.
- Glasses: If you wear glasses regularly, it is best to wear them in your headshot. Ensure they are clean and glare-free.
Grooming and Makeup
Your grooming and makeup should enhance your natural features without being too dramatic:
- Hair: Get a haircut a few days before the session to avoid a freshly-cut look. Style your hair neatly, and ensure it is not covering your face.
- Makeup: For women, opt for a natural makeup look. Use foundation to even out your skin tone, a touch of blush, and neutral eye makeup. Avoid heavy eyeliner or dramatic eyeshadow.
- Skin: Ensure your skin is well-moisturized and free from shine. Men can use a mattifying powder to reduce shine.
Fitting and Comfort
Your clothing should fit well and be comfortable. Ill-fitting clothes can make you look sloppy and unprofessional:
- Tailoring: Ensure your clothes are tailored to fit you perfectly. Baggy or tight clothes can be unflattering.
- Comfort: You should feel comfortable in your outfit. If you are uncomfortable, it will show in the photos. Choose fabrics that breathe and allow you to move easily.
Final Preparations
A few final steps before your headshot session can make a significant difference:
- Rest: Ensure you get a good night's sleep before the session. Tired eyes and dark circles are hard to hide.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your session to keep your skin looking fresh and hydrated.
- Test Run: Try on your outfit a day or two before the session to ensure everything fits well and looks good. Make any necessary adjustments.
- Steam wrinkles out of clothing.
- Practice putting on makeup to be sure it coordinates well with your skin tone and chosen outfits.
- Pack a small bag with items to touch up your hair or makeup.
In conclusion, the key to a successful headshot photography session is to present yourself in a manner that aligns with your professional goals. By choosing the right attire, colors, and accessories, and ensuring you are well-groomed and comfortable, you can project confidence and professionalism in your headshots. Remember, your headshot is often the first impression you make, so take the time to prepare and make it count.