



HEADSHOT clothing TIPS
IT’S TIME TO MAKE A
GREAT FIRST IMPRESSION!
WOMEN
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Try on clothing before you come to your headshot photo session. Clothing that is tailored to your body creates a sleeker look. Blousy, bulky clothing can make you look bigger on camera.
If you are self-conscious about your arms, avoid sleeveless style tops. Try 3/4 length sleeves.
To create movement for a natural, outdoor shoot, choose something flowy such as a long dress/skirt or long sleeves. -
Color can say so much about your personality and career. Are you outgoing? Confident? Conservative? Consider colors that best convey your professional goals.
You may want your clothing to match your brand colors when deciding what to wear.
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Black, navy and dark gray are the most slenderizing and work well if the garment is fitted, otherwise it can have the opposite effect.
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Jewelry – Bring a selection of jewelry for choices. Small and simple is great. However, if you love your big jewelry, bring it on! We want you to be yourself.
Don’t forget scarves, hats, and hair accessories. We can add, remove, and adjust these elements to create a variety of styles.
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It is a great idea to have your hair professionally styled before your session. Don’t forget about color touch-ups.
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Hands come into the frame a lot with headshots. Come with clean, manicured nails. Neutral nails or color – whatever fits your style!
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Make sure clothes are clean and wrinkle-free. Plan to try on your clothes a week prior to your shoot so you know whether things need to be pressed, cleaned, or you need something else that is a better fit or style for you.
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A well fitted bra or shapewear is key. Bras that are smooth and non-lacey is must for fitted tops and dresses. Look specifically for T-shirt bras or Shaper bras to manage bulge. Shapewear in a color that matches your skin tone can also come in handy.
MEN
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Look for slim-fit shirts and jackets. Avoid boxy or loose shirts as they will make you look bigger on camera. For business, you can’t go wrong with dress shirt and a fitted jacket. Go without a tie for a more relaxed look. Add a tie for a more professional look. Choose a suit that doesn’t bunch up when you button it or when you sit down.
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Bring pants, or jeans that match your selected shirts; that way if your knee or hip is in the frame, you’ll be stylishly covered.
Bring the right footwear. Sometimes feet come into the frame with cross-legged poses.
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You may want to do poses with or without glasses. Even holding glasses can create a statement. Bring rings, watches, and cufflinks as desired.
If you plan on wearing a tie, bring several options to choose from. Classic patterns are ideal and will extend the life of your headshot. Choose tie colors that complement your skin tone. For example, a blue tie will “pop” for blue eyes. Shiny, satin fabric often looks great.
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A fresh haircut is always a good idea as well as a clean shave or beard trim. If your brows are due for a grooming, schedule an appointment.
SESSION CHECKLIST
WOMEN
Bring extra makeup for touch-ups – especially POWDER to remove shine.
Lipstick or lip gloss. Bring a couple flattering shades for your skin tone and to complement your outfits.
Mascara and/or false lashes
Foundation / makeup base
Hair brush or comb
Jewelry – Bring a selection of jewelry for choices.
MEN
If you plan on wearing a tie, bring a few to choose from – your photographer will help you pick the one that will photograph the best.
Shirts – Solid colors are great. You can bring a white dress shirt if you are wearing it under a jacket – a white shirt by itself can be too bright.
Bring an extra jacket or suit if you can.
Hair comb
Watches – Remember your watch might show in the photo.
GROUP IMAGES
If your photo session calls for group images, neutrals and solids tend to work best. Primary colors and patterns can be a distraction when there are several different people in the composition. When in doubt, bring another option as far as a top or tie.
Jewel tones mixed with neutral textured layers tend to set each subject apart while maintaining a cohesive composition overall. Consider charcoal or navy suiting instead of black.
To maintain continuity while creating a diverse image, its best if everyone is in the same general color scheme without wearing the exact same color. Keep in mind if you have specific branding colors, it is great to pepper those colors in as well.