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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)
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