What to Wear for Your Professional Headshot: Tips and Tricks for a Great Shot

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In today’s job market, having a high-quality headshot is crucial as it can be the initial impression you make on potential employers, clients, or colleagues. Whether you’re using it on social media, your company’s website, or a conference brochure, it’s vital to dress appropriately for the situation and present yourself as a professional and well-groomed individual. This article provides tips and advice on what to wear for your professional headshot so that you can get the perfect shot.

Why is what you wear essential in a professional headshot?

When it comes to how others perceive you, your headshot plays a crucial role. It is important that it reflects your competence and confidence in your field. To achieve this impression, dressing appropriately is essential. Choosing the right attire for your headshot is crucial in representing your brand for social media and business cards. Make sure to select clothing that fits well and complements your skin tone.

If you are participating in a corporate headshot event be sure to stick to codes or uniforms that is set as a requirement with your company. Check with the people coordinating the event if there is a need to have a consistent brand by wearing company shirts or uniforms.

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Tips on What To Wear For Your Professional Headshot

Dress for the Part!

In the past, wearing a tie to work was seen as essential to professionalism. Today, however, it’s more important to align your attire with the standards of your industry. If your field allows, feel free to forgo the tie. Each industry has its own dress code, so dressing appropriately is key; for example, a suit is suitable for finance, while a more casual look may be perfectly acceptable in the creative sector.

Avoid Bold Prints

During your headshot session, the focus should be on you, not your clothes. It is important to avoid bold, distracting prints and instead opt for solid colors that complement your skin tone. While it’s important to show off your personality, patterns and bright colors can be distracting and take away from your overall appearance. Therefore, it is best to keep your outfit simple and understated.

Timeless Styles for Timeless Headshots

Choose classic styles for your headshot to ensure it remains timeless and updated.

How to look slimmer

Most people prefer to appear slim in their headshots. To avoid looking larger than you actually are, it’s best to avoid wearing an ill-fitted jacket or one with overly large shoulder pads. Taking care of small details can also make a big difference, such as ensuring your clothes are clean and ironed, and making sure your tie is straight and your collar is free of wrinkles.

Accessorize Appropriately For Your Headshot

Accessories can enhance your headshot by adding a touch of personality, but it’s important to steer clear of anything overly distracting or trendy. Choose timeless pieces, like a delicate necklace or classic earrings, to maintain a polished look. Aim for minimalism—stud earrings work well, and if you opt for a necklace, select something structured, like pearls, ensuring it sits just above your neckline.

Can I wear fake eye lashes for my professional headshot?

Over the past five years, there have been significant improvements in the world of eyelashes. I would have advised against using eyelashes in headshots in the past, but it now depends on the situation. If done by a professional and not too excessive, eyelashes can be acceptable. I suggest using small to medium-thick eyelashes for headshots that show a lot of detail and are zoomed in. If the lashes are too long or thick, they can appear to have two rows of lashes. However, if necessary, I can always enhance the lashes during editing.

How should you wear your hair?

When preparing for a professional headshot, it’s best to wear your hair as you typically do on a daily basis. This approach ensures that you feel comfortable and confident in the photo, which will reflect positively in your expression and posture. Trying out a new hairstyle right before your headshot can be risky, as it may not align with your usual look and can come across as less authentic. For women, styles like a sleek ponytail or soft waves are great options that highlight your features, while men should aim for a well-groomed style that fits their everyday appearance. Ultimately, choosing a familiar hairstyle will help you present your true self, making your headshot more relatable and professional.

Men be sure to shave if you want a clean look right before your headshot.

Aim to shave an hour or two before your session to ensure a clean appearance. This timing allows any potential redness or irritation from shaving to subside, giving your skin a more even tone. If you prefer to keep some facial hair, such as a beard or mustache, make sure it’s well-groomed. Trim any uneven areas with clippers for a tidy shape, and use beard oil or balm to soften the hair and add a touch of shine. Consider cleaning up the neckline and cheeklines for a sharp look. Finally, always moisturize after shaving or grooming to keep your skin looking fresh and healthy for the camera. And drink water!

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Conclusion

Are you looking to make it big in your professional acting career? One way to present yourself as a polished and professional individual is by having a high-quality headshot. To achieve an outstanding headshot that accurately represents you and your personal brand, it’s crucial to dress appropriately and follow the tips and tricks outlined in this ultimate guide. Getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, and avoiding drastic changes in your appearance are essential steps to take before your headshot session. Additionally, consider having at least two types of headshots, a commercial and a theatrical headshot. Look for a photographer who specializes in actor headshots, has experience working with actors, and has a good reputation. During the headshot session, the photographer will take several shots with different poses, outfits, and backgrounds. By following these tips, you can ensure that your headshots showcase your unique personality, professionalism, and talent, leaving a lasting and favorable first impression.