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Capturing Your Best Self

Daniela Chavez • July 23, 2023

Best Practices for Preparing for a Professional Headshot


Your headshot is often the first impression you make in the professional world. Whether you're building your personal brand, updating your LinkedIn profile, or preparing for an interview, a quality headshot can speak volumes about your confidence, and professionalism. But just showing up on the day of the shoot won't guarantee a perfect headshot. It requires careful preparation to ensure you capture your best self. 


Here are some essential steps to help you prepare for a headshot with a lasting impact.


Define Your Desired Look and Purpose:

It's crucial to define the look and purpose of your headshot prior to the day of your session. Consider the image you want to project and the intended audience. Are you aiming for a corporate, approachable, or creative look? Think about your industry or profession and how you want to be perceived. Communicate your intentions with your photographer, providing reference images or discussing your goals in detail. This will help them understand your vision and tailor the shoot accordingly.


  • Corporate Look: If you're in a formal business setting, opt for a professional and polished appearance. Choose classic attire such as a tailored suit or a well-fitted dress shirt.

  • Approachable Look: To appear friendly and approachable, select slightly more casual clothing, such as a blouse or a simple outfit. Consider softer colors and fabrics to create a warm and inviting impression.

  • Life Style Look: If you're in a creative fields or looking to build your personal brand, you have more flexibility to showcase your unique style. Experiment with distinctive clothing choices that reflect your creativity and personality while maintaining a polished and professional appearance.

Corporate Look

Approachable Look

Life Style Look

Clothing Suggestions:The clothing you choose for your headshot can significantly impact the overall impression it conveys. Here are some dos and p in

  • Opt for solid colors or subtle patterns that don't overpower your face. Busy prints or busy designs that can overwhelm your look.

  • Consider layering your outfit to add depth and visual interest. Blazers or cardigans can elevate your look and provide versatility for different looks.

  • Select pieces that fit you well and flatter your body shape. Loose or overly tight garments can appear unprofessional. 

  • It's generally recommended to wear long sleeves or 3/4 sleeves. They provide a more professional and polished look and help to balance out the proportions of your upper body.

  • Scoop and V-neck tops can accentuate the neckline and bring a flattering, slimming effect to your portrait.  Avoid bulky turtlenecks or col necks. 

  • Most headshots focus on the upper body, so be sure areas around the neckline and arms are pressed flat and lay nicely



Jewelry & Accessories:

  • Simple studs or small hoops add a touch of elegance without being too distracting. Avoid chunky or large statement pieces that can distract from the face. 


Personal Styling for both men and women:

For women:

  • Hairstyles: Opt for a hairstyle that suits your face shape and complements your desired look. Avoid drastic changes before the shoot to ensure you feel like yourself. The aim is to feel confident and comfortable.

  • Suggestions: Pulling hair back or wearing it in a sleek ponytail or bun keeps your hair out of your face and creates a clean and professional look. If you prefer to wear your hair down or have a short style, just make sure it is well-groomed and styled. The key to styling your hair is to keep it polished and professional.

  • Makeup: Aim for a natural look that enhances your features. Focus on even skin tone, defined eyebrows, subtly accentuated eyes, and flattering lip color. Avoid heavy or dramatic makeup unless it aligns with your desired image. 


For men:

  • Hairstyle: Make sure your hair is clean and neatly styled on the day of the shoot. If you need a haircut, schedule it a few days before the session to allow your hair to settle and look natural.

  • General Grooming: For a clean look, be sure to give attention to the grooming of eyebrows, nose, ears, and necklines, as these details will be captured by the camera.

  • Shaving: If your skin is prone to redness or irritation after shaving, be sure to give yourself enough time for your skin to calm down before the session. 



Color Suggestions:

Understanding your skin, hair, and eye coloring and choosing complementary colors based on that will help enhance your features and create a harmonious look.


Neutrals: These are a safe choice. They photograph well and tend to be slimming and detract less from the face.


  • Classic white: can create a clean and fresh look.  It adds brightness to your headshot and exudes a sense of purity and elegance. 

  • Soft Grays:  Light to medium shades of gray can provide a subtle and polished image.  Gray is a versatile neutral that complements various skin tones and creates a contemporary and timeless aesthetic. 

  • Charcoal or Navy:  If you prefer a darker neutral, charcoal gray or deep navy can add depth and sophistication to your headshot.  These colors convey a sense of authority and professionalism. 


Colors:  If you love color, just be sure the color you choose compliments your skin tone. 


  • Jewel Tones: Emerald greens, sapphire blues, or ruby reds are great options for those with cool undertones.

  • Earth Tones: Yellow, coral, terra-cotta, and peach can complement those with warmer undertones.

  • Soft pastels: Mint green, baby blue, or blush pink work well for a softer, airy look.


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