https://youtu.be/znXAUcpcW8E
Whether it’s your first headshot or the first in a long time, preparing properly can make a huge difference in how confident and polished you’ll look in your photos. A professional headshot is often your first impression in today’s digital world — on LinkedIn, company websites, or marketing materials — so it’s worth putting a little thought into it. Here are my top tips to help you get ready for a successful session:
1. Rest and Hydrate
It sounds simple, but it’s so important: rest and hydration are your best friends before a photo shoot. Aim to drink plenty of water the day before and the day of your session to keep your skin looking fresh and healthy. Try to get a good night’s sleep as well — though I understand, sometimes life (or little ones) doesn’t always make that easy!
2. Dress for Success — Comfort and Confidence Are Key
When choosing your outfit, the most important thing is that you feel comfortable and confident. Here are a few wardrobe tips to keep in mind:
-
Traditional Business Look: Dark suits are always a classic. If you’re wearing a tie, choose one whose color falls between your suit and shirt for a harmonious look. Opt for a crew-neck undershirt if you’re wearing a lighter-colored dress shirt, to avoid the neckline showing through.
-
Business Casual Look: A dress shirt or blouse in a solid color — ideally darker than your skin tone — works beautifully without a jacket.
-
Jewelry: Keep it simple. Small, subtle jewelry or none at all is usually best so the focus stays on you.
-
Avoid:
-
Turtlenecks (they can make you look stiff).
-
Bold patterns, grid-like prints, or herringbone textures.
-
Shiny, reflective fabrics.
-
Sleeveless or short-sleeved tops if you’re aiming for a polished executive look.
-
Think of your clothing as the background to your face: it should complement, not compete.
3. Hair, Makeup, Teeth, and Glasses: The Finishing Touches
Unless we’ve scheduled you for professional hair and makeup with my wonderful artist, please come ready to shoot — hair styled, makeup done, and teeth brushed. Here’s a quick checklist:
-
Bring along a comb or brush for touch-ups.
-
If you tend to get shiny (especially in warm weather), blotting paper or a small towel can help.
-
Clean your glasses beforehand or bring a cleaning cloth to wipe them down at the studio.
-
Men: If you’re planning a haircut, schedule it a few days before the session. This allows your hair time to settle naturally.
4. Relax and Enjoy the Process
This might be the hardest part — but also the most important! Relaxing will help your body language and expression look natural and confident. I’ll guide you through poses and prompts to make sure you feel at ease in front of the camera.
Remember: If you have any concerns or questions before or during the shoot, don’t hesitate to speak up. This is a collaborative process, and I want you to feel great every step of the way.
Your headshot isn’t just a photo — it’s a first impression, a reflection of your personal brand, and an important tool in today’s professional world. All you have to do is trust the process, trust yourself, and be ready to walk away with images you’ll be excited to share.
