Getting ready for a professional headshot or personal brand photography session can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, especially if you’re not often in front of the camera. Feeling prepared is key to capturing your best self, which is why I’ve prepared this guide for my clients and anyone else looking to make the most of their session.
Your headshot is not just a photo. Professional headshots are essential for creating a strong personal brand. They play a significant role in how you are perceived online, and I’m committed to capturing your best self. A well-executed headshot can convey professionalism, approachability, and trustworthiness. In today’s digital age, your headshot is often the first impression potential employers, clients, or collaborators will have of you.
What is considered professional varies across industries. While some fields demand formal and conservative attire—such as lawyers—others allow for more creativity. In creative fields, a unique and expressive headshot can be a bonus. Regardless of your industry, opting for more professional attire is something I always recommend.
Choosing the Right Outfit
Headshots
When choosing your outfit for headshots, keep in mind the framing, which typically focuses closely on your head and face. Opt for tops with higher necklines to ensure a polished look. We really don’t want you to look naked in your headshot because that neckline was too deep! The best necklines for photos are modest V-necks, boat necks, or crew necklines.
Background Considerations
If you want a white background for your headshots, avoid white shirts and blouses to prevent blending in with the background. However, a white shirt with a jacket or a suit is perfectly fine.
Branding Photos
For branding photos, I recommend having at least four different outfit options to get a variety of looks. We will decide on them during our pre-photoshoot consult, but I want you to select outfits that align with your brand and the image you want to project. Consider what is the most important thing we need to convey.
What is the most important thing we need to convey? Are you a doctor that, first of all, wants to look reliable and professional? Or maybe you are a personal stylist, and your outfits must speak for themselves? Or maybe you are a fitness instructor, and that boring jacket makes absolutely no sense for your brand?
It would be fantastic if at least one outfit matches your brand colors, though this is optional. Avoid short-term trends in clothing, as they change quicker than the back screen of my camera, and can make your photos look outdated much faster than we’d like. We are all for repurposing your content and using it for a long time!
Color Choices and Patterns
Stick to solid colors and subtle patterns, as bold patterns can distract from your face. Neutral colors always work well since the eye is used to seeing them. Avoid pastels for headshots, but they are more than welcome in branding photos! Also for headshot ignore neons, and opt for mid-tone or muted tones. Some excellent color choices include burgundy, navy, plum, emerald green, and charcoal.
What to Bring with You
- Hair brush and makeup: Touch-ups during the shoot can make a big difference.
- Outfits and outfit options: If you’re unsure about what to wear, bring a couple of options. We can decide together in the studio to find the perfect look.
- Jewelry, acessories, shoes
Additionally, I’ve created a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for your session. It covers everything from outfit tips to posing suggestions. I’d love to send you this guide for free to ensure you get the most out of your photoshoot experience, so hit me up in that contact form and I will send it your way!
Preparing for a photoshoot involves more than just showing up—it’s about ensuring you look and feel your best in every shot!