HEADSHOT TIPS & TRICKS
Easy and helpful tips for making your headshot session the best it can be
The number one, most important tip for making your headshot the best it can be is BE YOUR SELF! Sounds so simple but honestly it’s so true. When someone looks at your headshot, they want to know what you, the real you, looks like. So try to avoid wearing clothes or makeup or a hairstyle that you aren’t completely comfortable with. You don’t want to attract the wrong people for you or your brand and likewise, you don’t want to turn off the right people.
WHAT COLOR SHOULD I WEAR??
Stay away from light tones, like light yellow, nude, white or light tan. They tend to wash you out. Clothes that contrast against your skin tend to look better. Look for jewel tones: navy, maroon/burgundy/ruby, mustard, emerald. These look good on just about everyone! Also….DITCH logos or busy patterns, they can be super distracting. Additionally, if you know a color makes your eyes pop, or just looks perfect with your skin tone, doooo it!
WHAT TYPE OF CLOTHES??
Wear what accentuates your best features, and conceal what you’re not comfortable with. I don’t like drawing extra attention to my upper arms, so you can bet I won’t be going strapless! Chunky fabrics can make you look heavier, but too thin fabric can show lines through it, so watch the weight of what you are wearing. Textured fabrics tend to photograph well. Aim for non-wrinkle materials as well…you’ll thank me, I’ll thank you! Try to also stay away from anything that’s too seasonal. That sleeveless tank blouse might be great in July, but winter is coming, and it could make your image look a little “dated”. Likewise, big turtle neck sweaters are great in January….but not in August.
Practice posing in what you’re wearing. Seriously. You could rock the cutest outfit of all time, but if the only pose you’re comfortable with involves crossing your arms and that blazer is too snug to make it work, you won’t be happy.
WHAT ABOUT JEWELRY?
Less is more!!!! Keep it simple and small. Statement necklaces can work if they aren’t too busy, and earrings aren’t competing for attention.
HAIR AND MAKEUP???
Having your hair and makeup done is always encouraged if you’re not always comfortable doing it yourself. Even if you don’t wear makeup, it is recommended for your headshot since we will likely be using studio lighting. A few things to think about: Curling your eyelashes can make a big difference. Don’t forget about your lips! Even if you don’t regularly wear lipstick, a neutral shade can really help your lips pop a little. A little blush and bronzer is great, but if you’re not used to contouring, don’t take this as an opportunity to copy Kim Kardashian. Like always….keep it simple!
If you’re hoping to get a haircut sometime soon, aim to have it done about a week before your headshot. This gives you enough time to get used to styling your hair, and getting used to the look, and you don’t need to worry about an awkward just-cut look.
Check your nails!! Your hands just might make it in to your photos, so make sure that your nails are trimmed and cleaned. No chipped nail polish or gangly hang nails. If you want to use it as an excuse to get a fresh mani….go for it, but it’s also not necessary.
FOR THE GUYS:
If you’re clueless on what to wear, you can’t go wrong with a solid colored button down, rolled at the sleeves, with dark jeans or neutral colored pants.
FACIAL HAIR??
Facial hair is fine, but make sure to trim it up so it looks tidy.
HAIR???
Just don’t schedule a hair cut right before you walk in to my studio. LOL Give it a day or two for things to smooth out a bit.
CLOTHES??
If you typically wear undershirts, make sure they aren’t visible under your top shirt (v-necks are easier to hide).
Opt for a tailored look over something that may come across as too relaxed. Tuck in your shirt, grab a nice belt, and make sure your clothing is more fitted than loose.