What to wear for Headshots
Awesome! You’ve got your headshot session on the books! Now comes the “fun” part: figuring out what to wear.
You’re standing in front of your closet, sifting through options, and suddenly everything feels either too formal, too casual, or just not quite right. Trust me, you’re not alone—this is hands-down the most common question I get before a session. Let’s break it down and make this easy.
Consider the Vibe & Mood
First things first, if your company has any brand guidelines, give those a quick look. Some companies love a relaxed, casual feel, while others lean more formal. Figure out if there is an specifications for headshot attire.
For everyone else, think about the impression you want to make. Want to come across as approachable? A well-fitted, casual look—yes, even jeans—can work. Going for a polished, professional vibe? A tailored blazer or a sharp dress shirt will do wonders.
Fit & Presentation Matter
Fit is everything. Clothes that are too tight or too loose can be distracting. Blazers that are too oversized might swallow you up, and snug tops can create awkward lines. The sweet spot? Something that fits just right and flatters your shape.
Oh, and wrinkles? They can be entirely distractinng in photos. Give your outfit a quick steam or iron before your session. Your future self will thank you.
The Power of Color
Color can make a huge difference in how you look and feel. If you already know which shades make you shine, go for them! If you're not sure, these are always a solid choice:
Rich blues (navy, cobalt)
Earthy greens (olive, forest)
Soft jewel tones (teal, plum, rust)
Neutral but not-too-light shades (charcoal, espresso, warm taupe)
Black is a classic, but it can sometimes look a little harsh. If you’re going for a sleek, polished vibe, navy or charcoal are great alternatives. White can be tricky, too—it tends to reflect a lot of light—so layering it under a blazer can help balance things out. Avoid neon colors and busy patterns. Trust me on this one.
Keep It Classic, Not Trendy
Fashion trends come and go, but your headshot should have staying power. That ultra-trendy piece you love right now? It might not age well. Stick with timeless, well-tailored pieces that still feel like you.
Show Your Personality
Your headshot should feel like you. If it fits your brand or industry, add a little personality. A bold color, a signature accessory, or a relaxed styling choice can make your photo stand out while still feeling authentic.
Tattoos & Piercings
Love your tattoos and piercings? Rock them! If you’re in a field with a stricter dress code, it’s worth checking in with your employer just to be sure. Otherwise, go for it.
Glasses & Transition Lenses
If glasses are part of your everyday look, wear them! Just make sure they’re clean (smudges will show up in high-res images). If they don’t have an anti-glare coating, lighting adjustments may be needed. And if you have transition lenses, keep them out of bright light before your session so they don’t tint up.
Layering & Accessories
Layers can add depth and interest. A structured blazer, a cozy sweater, or a fitted cardigan can take your look up a notch. For a classic, flattering look, long sleeves often work best.
Jewelry? Less is more. Statement pieces can pull attention away from your face, so simple, elegant accessories usually work best.
Hair & Grooming
Hair: Style it how you normally would, just polished. If you need a haircut, get it a week before your session so it settles in. Bring a brush for touch-ups.
Facial Hair: If you shave, do it a couple of hours before your session to avoid redness. If you’ve got a beard, give it a neat trim.
Makeup: Keep it natural. A little translucent powder helps with shine, and a neutral lip color enhances your features without overpowering your look. Skip anything with shimmer or heavy SPF—it can reflect light weirdly in photos.
Final Tips
Bring a couple of outfit options if you’re unsure—I can help you choose.
Try everything on in advance to make sure it fits and feels good.
Iron or steam your clothes. No one likes a wrinkled shirt.
Get a good night’s sleep before your session. You’ll look and feel fresher.
Still feeling stuck? Not sure if that blazer works or whether you should go with the blue or the black? I’ve got you. Choosing the right outfit can feel overwhelming, but don’t stress—I'm happy to help you make the best call. If you have any questions or just want a second opinion, shoot me an email. I’ll gladly offer guidance so you feel confident and comfortable walking into your session.
