HEADSHOTS PREP GUIDE
Your headshot or branding session is coming up, so here is all the good info to make sure you are ready and confident for your shoot! I’ve put together the best tips and advice for how to dress your best and choose options for your shoot to make you stand out! Read through to learn all about your session and if you have any other questions, please shoot them my way!
HAIR + MAKEUP
If you are someone who is planning on doing your hair and makeup for your session, I HIGHLY recommend hiring a professional stylist. There are so many benefits to adding this to your process that day… It takes one more thing off your plate, gives you the down time to relax and enjoy being pampered, plus they understands how to make you look camera ready - which is a bit different from your day-to-day look. Makeup for photographs usually needs to be a bit more heavy handed than we are used to wearing on a regular basis. So, being able to relax and trust a pro for this is a huge help to making sure you look and feel your best for your shoot!
If you need a hair/makeup artist, please let me know as I work with a handful of amazing stylists who I trust completely! I’d be happy to help you set up an appointment with them on your shoot date.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
First and foremost… wear what makes you feel confident! Your photos will turn out amazing as long as you feel like you look like YOU. Don’t try to force anything… and don’t be afraid to be fully yourself!
If you are a bold pattern and color person… ignore all the “rules” and wear those expressive outfits! If you lean more classic and minimalist with your wardrobe, but you’re in an industry that’s a bit artsy and bold… don’t feel like you should “dress the part”. Be you and your images will shine in the best way possible!
If you’re drawing a complete blank and need professional advice on styling, please reach out to Lili Morton! She’s an amazing stylist and would love to help guide you!
DOS AND DON’TS
Avoid shiny, neon or reflective fabrics (like silk/satin). The camera has a hard time with these things AND they can be a distraction in your image. We want the photo to be all about you, and these fabrics can risk the attention not being where it should be.
Make sure your clothes are clean and wrinkle free.
Please do not wear any items with logos, graphics or words unless it is a company issued wardrobe.
Check yourself in every angle. Sometimes an outfit looks great from one side, but then you’ll notice bulges or sags you’re not happy with from other angles.
Tiny crisscross or checkered patterns capture oddly in the camera, so try to avoid those when possible.
Ladies, avoid tops that are too low cut if your aim is for a more professional look.
Ensure your wardrobe fits properly. Avoid clothes that are too tight or too baggy as they can make you look larger or unkempt.
GENERAL GUIDELINES
Neutrals photograph great and are always a professional look.
If you want a headshot that is timeless and can last for years, keep with classic styles and avoid trends.
Add a layer for a quick “second look” option. Throw on a jacket/blazer or a sweater to give your outfit a new look. Plus, a blazer gives your headshot a bit more polished and professional look.
Check out Pinterest for ideas on looks you like. See what catches your eye when you browse through my inspiration board and then try to duplicate the look, but with your own personal twist.
TIPS FOR THE DAY OF YOUR SHOOT
If it’s a hot day, bring a towel or blotting papers if you are prone to getting a bit sweaty. We want to make sure you look your best the whole shoot!
If you have multiple outfits, be sure to keep everything on hangers to ensure your outfits stay fresh and in great condition.
If you’re wearing makeup, but sure to bring supplies to touch up just in case.
Arrive a bit early if your session is at an outdoor location. This will allow you to get parked, your outfit squared away, check hair and makeup one last time and meet me at your scheduled start time.
Check your face closely! This may sound obvious, but look in the mirror… close up! Check for blemishes, dry skin, flakes in your hair, food in your teeth… and even check your eyes and nose for stragglers. When I edit, I see everything!
TEAM PHOTOS
Unless your company is wearing a standard uniform, it’s best to avoid being “matchy-matchy” for your team photos. Try to stay within a similar color scheme or with colors that coordinate to get the best results. And, of course, keep a consistent level of dress for everyone… meaning, everyone is in business casual, suits, casual, etc.
