GET PREPARED FOR YOUR HEADSHOT
Getting prepared for your headshot can make all the difference in how you come across. By planning ahead, you ensure that you look confident, professional, and authentic. Choosing the right clothing, grooming, and practicing your posture can help you feel more at ease, allowing your personality to shine through. A little preparation goes a long way in creating a headshot that truly represents you and makes a positive impact on your personal or professional brand.
Welcome to the guide
This guide is designed to help you do just that!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Clothing Guidelines
Accessories
Props
Footwear
The right clothing can make or break your headshots
Sometimes less is more but sometimes more is more
Create more interesting images by having something to interact with
Make sure your shoes suit your outfit to avoid a disconnect
Hair & Makeup
Hair and makeup can really make or break a professional headshot
Personal Grooming
The last thing you want is to realise you've forgotten to do your brows
Skin & Nails
Sometimes a little bit of cleaning is all that's needed
Where To Park
Make sure you know where to park and think about the weather
Think about the places your headshot might end up
Headshots are a powerful tool for personal and professional branding, making a strong first impression across various platforms and settings. Whether you're using them for LinkedIn profiles, company websites, social media, business cards, or personal portfolios, a well-crafted headshot conveys professionalism, approachability, and confidence. The way you present yourself in these images can significantly impact how others perceive you, so preparing for your headshot session is essential to ensure it aligns with your goals. If you're not sure quite where your headshot might be used yet, these are the most common uses for headshots and personal branding images:
The most common headshot uses:
- Email Signatures
- Google Business
- Business Cards
- Tiktok
- X (Twitter)
- Reels & Stories
- Video Blogs
- Websites
- Blog Posts
- Press Releases
- Internal Imagery
- Billboards
- Flyers & Brochures
- Introductory Posts
- Newspapers
- Magazines
- Interviews
- Speaking Engagements
CLOTHING GUIDELINES
Your package details the number of wardrobe changes you can have. For Headshot Shoots and Corporate Branding Sessions, it's a good idea to bring a variety of outfits that suit different purposes, giving you a wide selection of images to choose from. For Express Headshots or Team Headshots with only one Wardrobe Option, you can arrive in your chosen outfit and still bring along a blazer, jacket, or scarf to quickly change up your look for different shots.
To get the best results from your photos, make sure your outfits are clean, well-ironed, and fit properly. Also, ensure that any undergarments are the right color and fit comfortably.
Blazers & Jackets
Colours Choices
Creating Shape
WARDROBE TIPS
what to wear
A blazer can instantly elevate your look, conveying confidence and authority, while also providing versatility for different shots. A well-fitted blazer or jacket can frame your face, enhance posture, and create a polished, clean silhouette as well as have a slimming effect.
Neutral tones like black, white, gray and navy are safe options but richer jewel tones like emerald green, deep blue and burgundy look really great on camera. Unless it's part of your brand, avoid overly bright or neon colours as they can distract from your face.
Outfits with tailored cuts, such as blazers, fitted shirts, or structured dresses, help create shape and highlight your silhouette, providing a polished and flattering appearance for headshots. For a less formal look, a highwaisted pant, skirt or a dress that cinches at the waist will work well too!
Fabric Choices
Layering
Things to Avoid
Choose fabrics that don’t wrinkle easily or cling too tightly. If your fabric is likely to wrinkle, think about whether you need to bring it with you and change on site. Avoid shiny or reflective fabrics that might create unwanted reflections under studio lights. Matte fabrics will create a more polished clean look.
Bringing layering pieces, such as a blazer, cardigan, or scarf, allows you to quickly adjust your look without the need to completely change outfits. Layers can add depth, shape and dimension to your headshot, creating visual interest and helping to break up the monotony of a single piece of clothing.
Avoid logo's, slogons or text if it isn't related to your brand as this can distract from your face and appear unprofessional. Another thing to avoid unless it's a part of your uniform is the polo T Shirt. These collared T-Shirts have their place and time but it's not your headshot.
ADDING ACCESSORIES
When it comes to accessories for your headshot, it's best to keep them minimal and classic to maintain a professional and polished look. Simple jewelry, such as stud earrings, a delicate necklace, or a subtle watch, can add a touch of elegance without distracting from your face. Avoid large or overly shiny accessories, as they can draw attention away from your expression and create unwanted reflections or distractions under the lighting. The goal is for your accessories to complement your outfit and enhance your overall appearance, not overshadow it. A thoughtful, understated accessory can elevate your look while keeping the focus on you.
Adding Props
Adding props to a headshot can make the image more dynamic and help showcase your personality, profession, or interests, creating a more engaging and memorable photo. Props can subtly reinforce the message or theme you want to convey—whether it's a laptop for a business professional, a book for an author, or a tool related to your craft. They can also help you feel more comfortable and natural during the session, adding a layer of storytelling to the shot. When used thoughtfully, props add visual interest and context, making the headshot stand out while still maintaining a professional tone.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SHOES
While shoes aren't typically visible in most headshots they are in branding images or sometimes sitting images. Whether or not they're visible, choosing the right footwear is still important, especially if you're standing or the shot includes a full-body or mid-length frame. Even when not in view, the right shoes can make you feel more confident and poised, influencing your posture and overall presence. Opt for shoes that complement your outfit, maintaining the same level of professionalism and style. For example, sleek dress shoes or smart flats work well for corporate looks, while casual, well-maintained shoes are suitable for more relaxed or creative sessions. If your shoes are visible, make sure they're clean, polished, and match the tone of your outfit to ensure consistency in your overall appearance.
PROFESSIONAL HAIR AND MAKEUP
Professional hair and makeup can significantly enhance your headshot by creating a polished and cohesive look. A skilled makeup artist can highlight your best features while keeping your appearance natural, ensuring you look fresh and confident without looking overdone. Well-groomed hair complements the overall image, framing your face and adding to your professionalism. Together, hair and makeup help you present a refined version of yourself that aligns with your personal or professional brand, ensuring you make a strong, positive impression in every shot.
If you'd like, I can help arrange professional hair and makeup for you for $200 + GST, or even provide a list of recommendations if you'd like to do this yourself.
PERSONAL GROOMING
Before your headshot session, it’s important to check your personal grooming to ensure a polished appearance. Make sure your hair is neatly styled and free of flyaways, and trim any facial hair if necessary. Check your nails for cleanliness and trim if needed. Be mindful of any stray hairs or uneven skin tones, and remember to hydrate your skin for a fresh glow. A little attention to these grooming details will help you feel more confident and ensure your headshot looks its best.
TIPS FOR SKIN & NAILS
On the day of your headshot session, it’s essential to cleanse and moisturize your face to create a smooth, hydrated canvas. Gently cleanse your skin to remove any dirt, oil, or residue, ensuring your complexion looks fresh and clear. Follow up with a lightweight moisturizer that suits your skin type to keep your face hydrated and glowing. Avoid trying new skincare products or treatments right before your shoot, as they could cause irritation or breakouts. Stick to your usual skincare routine to minimize the risk of any unexpected skin reactions, ensuring your skin looks its best in front of the camera.
PARKING INFO
The studio is located at 120 Lower Dent Street and there are plenty of on street car parks available nearby. Simply come into the waiting room and I'll be there to greet you. Don't forget if it looks like rain, to bring an umbrella just in case!
