How To Prepare For Your Professional Headshot

Male headshot in blue suit How To Prepare For Your Professional Headshot

You want to look like the best version of yourself on your session day. After all, all these photos will be seen by your friends, family and coworkers. Here are a few tips and tricks where beauty and fashion are concerned on how to prepare for your professional headshot.

Session Tips

Choose two to three outfits to wear during your session and lay them out so they are ready to go. Make sure they are clean and wrinkle-free. Also, don’t forget to pack any accessories you’ll want for each outfit – jewelry, scarves, belts, etc. Bring matching socks/tights, and shoes for each outfit if one pair won’t go along with all of them.


Makeup reads differently on camera than it does in real life. I recommend hiring a professional makeup artist who knows just what to do. MUAs know which shimmery shadows will photograph weird and what colors to avoid for photos. Most importantly, they also help you look your best.


Get your hair cut about one to two weeks prior to your session. Don’t drastically change it from your normal style in case you don’t like it. Have the hair stylist show you some easy styles you can do during outfit changes to switch it up a bit. For guys don’t forget to shave away any stubble from your face and neck prior to your session.

Think about all the details: nails, hair, teeth, skin. Use a whitening toothpaste in the weeks leading up to your session, really look after your skin and don’t pick (I do offer free blemish touch up, though), Get a manicure the day before or day of your session to ensure your nails look their best. Don’t forget that the color needs to match all of your outfits. For this reason, and to keep a clean appearance, I suggest going with the French manicure or just a clear coat of paint. If you’re wearing open toes, spring for the pedi, too. Get a good night’s rest the night before so you can look well rested for your session.

What to Wear

Wear what makes you feel good. Headshot sessions are all about bringing your professional side out, so if you put something on and you feel uncomfortable, move on to the next option. Consider it sort of like searching for the perfect wedding attire. When you put it on and can’t help but spin in front of the mirror or think, “Heck yes, I look fabulous!” then that is the attire you should wear on shoot day. Make sure you’re comfortable. On that note, you’ll be sitting and standing, so make sure that whatever you wear you feel comfortable moving around in. This can make a huge difference in how the shoot goes and how the images turn out! Opt for attire that flatters your figure but is still comfortable. remember, the goal is to be professional, comfortable, stylish, and still be yourself.

If you’re ready to make a lasting impression for your social media and website needs, message me to get started! My studio is located in Richfield, Ohio, conveniently near 77, 80 and 271.

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