After you have booked your photographer, signed the contract, and scheduled a date for your professional headshot session, there are a few ways that you, as a client, can look your best during your professional headshot  session.

It all depends on how you want to be represented in the portrait. What you will wear will be primarily determined by what kind of business you are in. For instance, if you work in a corporate setting, you will want to consider wearing a suit and tie; however, if you are an artist, you may go for a solid black t-shirt. For the sake of this discussion, we will focus on corporate headshots.

What to Wear to you Portrait Session

I recommend a classic dark-colored suit, either black or navy blue, with a solid-colored dress shirt for men. Avoid the temptation of wearing that Hawaiian print shirt you received from Aunt May on your birthday. If you decide to wear a tie, choose one that is low-key or has muted patterns so that it does not take away from the main focus of the portrait, your face. Avoid distracting ties! Ensure that your suit, dress shirt, and tie fit well and are dry-cleaned to remove wrinkles and unsightly stains.

When determining whether to wear patterns or plans attire, choose something that will not distract from your eyes and smile and that adds to the tone you want to set. For women, avoid wearing sleeveless tops. This will prevent you from showing your armpits and any tone and color differences between your face and arms. Consider wearing mid-tone or neutral colors for a classy look, and make sure you dry-clean and press your shirt and jackets as well. Also, consider experimenting with accessories with layers and textures, such as a scarf or a pashmina.

Makeup and Shaving 

As far as makeup is concerned, keep it natural. I am no expert on makeup by any means; however, I can tell you that it is essential to apply makeup with much more care than for in-person activities. Pay extra close attention to the color and application of lipstick, as well as eyelashes. Also, use a finishing powder to reduce shimmer and make the skin look matte. Bring your makeup with you to your headshot session so that it can be re-applied if necessary.

For both men and women, remove unwanted hair from places such as your nose and ears. Unfortunately, hair seems to have a mind of its own as we age. Shave the night before to allow the face to heal.

Care For Your Hair

Speaking of hair, you should consider using hairspray, gel, and other products to tame frizz and make your hair look healthy. Make sure to avoid products that give a matte look. These are fine for some situations but not for a photo shoot. Matte-finished hair will look dull and lifeless in pictures. There are millions of types of hair and hairstyles to consider, but ensure that your hair compliments you and is neat. Again consider bringing the necessary supplies to maintain your hair during the session. (This applies to men and women, by the way!) Another consideration is to get a haircut sooner than a week or so before the session. This prevents you from having a tan line in your photo, and if your haircut is not what you wanted, it allows you to reschedule if needed. Avoid haircut fads to avoid looking like a yearbook photo from the 80s. The keyword is “timeless”!

Get Plenty of Rest Before You Professional Headshot Session

Before your headshot, the most important thing you can do is get plenty of rest and drink plenty of water. There is nothing worse than having red or yellow eyes due to lack of sleep and bags under your eyes. A good night’s sleep also gives you the energy you require to be the best “you” possible, full of energy and life. Lack of sleep will show in your photos, and it won’t be my fault.

I hope these tips assist you in preparing for your corporate and professional photoshoot. If you have any questions, please reach out to me at Quintin.ivy@mastermindunltd.com. Don’t forget to link up with me on my Instagram account @mmu__photography. Thanks and have a blessed day!