Preparing for Business Headshots

A professional headshot gives you the chance to grab attention and stand out from the crowd. It makes an impression on people before they even meet you. Your personality and professionalism should come through in business portraits. The subject of what to wear for a professional headshot is one that is frequently asked, so you should consider it in the days leading up to your shoot.

Choosing the Right Wardrobe:

You must consider the goal and audience when deciding what to wear for a professional headshot. The way you dress gives you a chance to express your uniqueness and personality, but you must be careful that it doesn't divert the audience's focus from YOU.

Wardrobe Tips for Men

A jacket with or without a tie is always a good option, with the tie largely dependent on your audience.

Different colors convey various messages. Dark colors make you appear more formal and authoritative, whereas lighter colors make you appear more approachable and friendly.

Opting for solid colors is often a smart choice.

Wardrobe Tips for Women

A business jacket or blazer, a shirt or blouse, or a dress are all excellent options for women’s attire. Solid medium to dark tones paired with colorful accents create a polished look. To ensure your neckline falls nicely in the frame, choose outfits with a higher neckline.

When it comes to accessories, classic jewelry works best. Opt for simple metal or gemstone stud earrings for an elegant touch.

What to Avoid Wearing for a Professional Headshot

When selecting your outfit for a professional headshot, steer clear of the following:

• Large, Busy Patterns: Avoid floral designs, asymmetrical lines, and anything too distracting.

• Shiny Fabrics: Silky or metallic materials can reflect light unflatteringly, while velvet and ruffles can be overly ornate.

• Complicated Necklines: Stay away from deep necklines, off-the-shoulder styles, and busy necklines that can draw attention away from your face.

• Bulky Clothing: Heavy sweaters and ill-fitting tops can appear unprofessional and unflattering.

• Wrinkled Clothes: Wrinkles are a definite no—always aim for a crisp, clean look!

To avoid regrets on the day of the shoot, try on your outfits a few days in advance. This will help ensure you’re happy with your choice and that everything fits well and is wrinkle-free.

Even in more relaxed industries, it’s important to dress up for professional headshots. Doing so can boost your confidence and enhance your overall presentation.

Business Headshot Makeup

Foundation

When it comes to your headshot makeup, aim for a natural look that reflects how you present yourself in everyday life. If you typically wear heavier makeup, feel free to do the same for your headshot. Conversely, if you prefer a more minimal approach, keep it consistent in your photos.

Always start with clean, even, and well-moisturized skin. To ensure your skin looks its best, begin using extra moisturizer 3-5 days before the shoot, and remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water—hydrated skin shines!

Choose a foundation shade that matches the tone of your neck and chest. While opting for a slightly darker shade may work in social settings, it can be distracting in headshots, as a mismatch will be evident.

Avoid foundations or highlighters that are overly glowy or dewy. While these can add radiance in person, they may give you a sweaty appearance under bright studio lights. A matte foundation is usually the best choice.

Lips

Steer clear of bold lip colors and lip liners. If you don’t usually wear much lipstick, a lightly tinted lip gloss is a great option, but be cautious—shiny products may not photograph well.

For those who typically skip lipstick, including men, stick to a natural lip balm. Start applying it 3-4 days prior to the shoot to ensure your lips look smooth and healthy.

Eyes

Avoid false eyelashes, especially if they are long.

Matte, nude eyeshadow shades work best for a clean look. If you want to experiment with bolder colors, save that for later in your session—it's easier to add intensity than to tone it down.

​Hairstyle Tips

In general, the best hairstyle for your headshot is one that you can easily recreate yourself. Avoid trying out unfamiliar styles that you’re not comfortable with; you want to look like your true self when meeting people in person.

Use hairspray or gel to keep your hair in place, and opt for products that enhance shine without making your hair appear wet. A bit of shine is great for hair, so steer clear of mattifying products that could make it look dull.

If you have longer hair, consider giving it a gentle blowout for added volume, which can really elevate your look for the shoot.

Don’t forget to bring a brush or comb, as well as hairspray for any necessary touch-ups. It’s also a good idea to have hair pins and ties on hand in case you need them during the session—I have plenty available, too!

​Final Tips!

• If you plan to be in the sun before your shoot, don’t forget to apply sunscreen. Be thorough with your application to ensure your skin is protected!

• Stay well-hydrated in the 3-4 days leading up to the shoot. As mentioned earlier, hydrated skin always looks its best.

• Avoid trying new skincare products right before your headshot. New products can sometimes cause breakouts, so it’s wise to stick with what you know works for your skin.

• Refrain from getting a new or experimental haircut right before your session to avoid any last-minute surprises.

• A few days prior to the shoot, try on your outfits. As you choose what to wear, consider applying your makeup as a test to ensure your clothing complements your look.

Preparing for your professional headshot is an exciting opportunity to showcase your best self. By following these tips you’ll be well on your way to capturing a confident and authentic image. Remember, the goal is to reflect who you are in your professional life, so take the time to plan and prepare. Good luck, and enjoy the process!