Having a good professional headshot is a must in today’s corporate or entrepreneurial world. It sets the tone for how people view you and your brand, and can definitely leave a lasting impression. So how do you make the most of that? How do you decide what to wear for your professional headshot? Do you want a studio-style, classic headshot? Or maybe you are going for outdoor greenery, or a building background? No matter what you decide, deciding what to wear for your professional headshot is a big deal!
As a San Francisco brand photographer, I’ve gathered a few tips to help you find that perfect outfit for your next professional headshot or business photo!
What To Wear For Your Professional Headshot?
Wardrobe
When choosing your outfit, you will definitely want to avoid distracting prints or patterns. The focus should be on you, and not your clothing! Watch out for the moiré effect on camera, by making sure not to wear clothing with a small, tight pattern. When deciding on colors to wear, avoid bright, neon colors – orange, coral, bright pink, etc. Keep to neutral, muted, brand colors that allow you to be center stage. Ensure your clothes are ironed, wrinkle and lint-free! Long sleeves or ¾ length sleeves make a great choice and work so well for your professional headshots! If you opt for a blazer, make sure it is fitted with no shoulder pads. Layers, a modest v-neck, or crew neck will be your best friend and always look great!
Accessories
If you decide to wear jewelry, you’ll want to keep it minimal to avoid taking the attention away from you. You don’t want anything too sparkly or flashy! And, the BIG one. Glasses! You want to be sure that if you are wearing glasses, they have no reflective coat or minimal coating. The screen glare coating shows up on camera and can be difficult to photograph! Keep things easy and simple by opting for coating-free glasses!
Hair
Your hairstyle can be a game-changer for your professional headshots! A ponytail or bun doesn’t translate well in camera, as you can’t see the back of your hair or head, so you’ll want a hairstyle that is down, with some movement! Don’t forget to bring your brush or comb for touch-ups if needed.
Preparation Is Key
Last, but certainly not least, you’ll want to make sure you are prepared well before your business photos. Bring multiple options for outfits so you can have a diverse set of options. The day before your shoot, stay hydrated and well-rested!
And, as always, I am here for you! Don’t forget to show up for yourself and be confident!
