Remember that the purpose of a headshot is simply that. A Head Shot. These photos focus on your face. Avoid distractions in your clothing and your headshot will shine!

1. Wear colors that compliment your hair and skin tones. Don’t choose colors that wash you out or blend in with your skin too much. Very light skinned people might choose a darker or richer color to wear, and darker skinned people might choose a lighter or bolder color. Pastels work if the tones are right but they can blend with your skin tones and wash you out too. Create a contrast between your natural coloring and your clothing to draw attention to your face.
2. Choose solid colors to avoid distractions. Busy Prints, Animal prints and shirts with writing are distracting and do not always present a professional look. If you are a service professional and wear a lab coat, bring that to your session. If you are a sales representative for a name brand, bring a branded item to wear as an option. But something that says “Cancun” on the shirt is not what a you want for this photo.
3. Create a continuous line – wear a shirt or dress with sleeves to create a continuous line from your neck down. Remember that these photos will be cropped somewhere around or below the breast. Short sleeved tops may look great on you but could look funny in photos that are cropped at that area. Sleeveless is okay but remember that your upper arms will be prominent in the phots
4. Layers are fine if they are fitted. A nice jacket, fitted sweater, or other layering piece that complements the look you are going for is fine. You will want photos with and without this layering piece. Often head shots are done while sitting and these layers can get bunched up and make you look heavier than you would like them too. Just be careful with them
5. Neckline – A round neck, square neck and v-neck are great for women. Not too low as you don’t want the girls on display but enough to be feminine is fine. Men should wear as shirt with a collar, polo style or button-down shirt with or without a tie.
6. Make sure all your clothing is well pressed and clean. Do not arrive with it all wadded up in a bag. Keep the items on a hanger for the best looks. If you have pets, make sure your items are pet fur free. I know that is hard when they want to show you how much they love you before you leave!
7. Simple Jewelry – chunky earrings and bold statement pieces are fine for a night out, but for your professional look, you want simple. “Less is more”. A gold chain, simple stud or a small hoop earring. If you have a nose piercing, maybe you want to use a small stud vs the ring. Avoid lip piercings for professional photos as those distract from your smile.
8. Do not over do your makeup. A natural look is best. If you can afford it, get your makeup professionally done. Think of it as an investment in your photos, plus you leave looking amazing. I can recommend several great makeup artists for you! Avoid heavy mascara on your lashes. This can make your eyes look tired and heavy.
9. Wear items that make you feel confident and comfortable! These photos will be your “first impression” when people look at your profile or resume. You want to have photos that make a statement!
10. Smile! Have fun. Relax. Enjoy the session and the moment. The more relaxed you are, the better your photos will look. A smile is a must for headshots. You can take photos without a smile, but you will want to make sure you get at least one with a smile.