Professional Business Headshot Tips
- Think about the type of style and look you want to convey
- Let us know your expectations and purpose
- Let us know where and how the headshot photo will be utilized ( so we can light and frame accordingly)
- Get hydrated by drinking water and get some rest the night before. (this will help prevent dark circles under your eyes)
- Avoid smoking /drug/alcohol use prior to your headshot session for better looking skin tones and bright eyes
- Relax and be yourself. Don’t force an artificial smile
What to wear:
- Wear comfortable professional attire that you feel good in
- Wear your uniform if it is a requirement for your job or position
- Make sure your shirt and jacket fits you well. A little loose around the neck is better than too tight
- Don’t overdress for your role or position
- Large chokers or turtlenecks should not be worn for headshots
- Clothing should be neatly pressed and should appear new or almost new
- Avoid heavy textured fabric or clothes with complicated patterns or bold stripes
Men
- The professional business look is a suit jacket, dress shirt and tie
- A casual business look is often a jacket and open dress shirt, shirt and tie (no jacket), or dress shirt on it’s own
- Knit sport shirts are appropriate for some businesses. Be sure the shirt is in good condition and fits well
- For a casual no-jacket look, wear a colored shirt that is a darker tone than your skin
- A white dress shirt just by itself is not a good idea
- Bring a couple of different jackets, shirts colors and ties for variety
Women
- Bold prints and complicated patterns should be avoided
- Differing necklines can alter the percieved shape of your face. Try alternate shirts/blouses to see what works best
- For a casual look, bring assorted colored blouses that are darker in tone than your skin.
- Classic is better than trendy. A business portrait is about your face and not about the latest fashion in clothes
- Sleeveless blouses/dresses may draw attention to arms and shoulders
Jewelry
- Keep jewelry small and basic
- Avoid large ornamental pieces that can compete with your face for attention
- The photograph is not about your jewelry, it’s about your face.
- Decide if piercings are suitable for your position and for where your photo will be displayed
What to Bring
- Alternate change of clothing if appropriate for the situation
- A good attitude
- Lip balm
- Hair brush/comb
- Makeup and hair products you prefer
Hair and Makeup Tips
- Make-up should be clean and natural
- Wear a layer of translucent powder – your face will appear smoother in photos. Shine is reduced, pores are minimized, smaller, skin looks even, and blush is smoother
- Apply lip liner before matte lipstick, then reline. Not too much. Dab a cotton ball in powder and rub along the lip line to keep color from bleeding
- Products that shine or sparkle should be avoided
- Do not use frosts or ultra-bright hues
- Abstain from getting a hair cut just before the shoot (give your hair time grow-in so you will be comfortable with a new style or cut
- Avoid new skin or hair products the day before your shoot. (In case you have an allergic reaction)
The day of the shoot:
- Arrive with makeup already applied and hair styled. (if not using a makeup artist)