What to Wear for Professional Headshots
Choosing the right outfit for your headshot session is crucial in creating a powerful and effective professional image. Your clothing should complement your face and enhance your personal brand, not distract from it. As renowned photographer Peter Hurley often says, "The best outfits are the ones you don't remember."
Start with Your Industry and Personal Brand
Before selecting your outfit, consider your industry standards and personal brand. A corporate executive might opt for a well-tailored suit, while a creative professional could choose something more casual yet polished. Healthcare professionals often prefer clean, approachable looks, while attorneys might lean toward more traditional, authoritative styles.
Regardless of your field, aim for clothing that makes you feel confident and authentic to who you are professionally. When you feel good in your clothes, it shows in your expression and posture.
The Power of Solid Colors
Solid colors are generally the safest and most effective choice for headshots. They don't draw attention away from your face and tend to look timeless in your photos. Navy blue, dark gray, charcoal, and black are classic choices that work well for most people and photograph beautifully.
However, don't be afraid to incorporate color if it aligns with your personal brand. Rich jewel tones, deep burgundy, or forest green can add sophistication while still keeping the focus on you. Just ensure the color isn't overpowering or neon-bright.
What to Avoid
Steer clear of busy patterns, large logos, or trendy styles that might quickly date your photo. Small patterns can create a distracting moiré effect in digital images. Remember, a good headshot should serve you for several years, so choose clothing that won't look out of place as trends change.
For Women
A blouse, sweater, or jacket in a flattering color typically works well. V-necks and scoop necks tend to be particularly flattering as they elongate the neck and create clean lines. Avoid overly revealing clothing or excessive jewelry that might distract from your face.
For makeup, aim for a polished version of your everyday look. Professional and natural-looking makeup photographs best – think "enhanced you" rather than dramatic evening makeup.
For Men
Consider wearing a suit jacket, blazer, or well-fitted dress shirt. If you choose to wear a tie, select one that complements your shirt without being too bold or distracting. Ensure your jacket fits well across the shoulders and that your shirt collar sits properly against your neck.
A simple, well-groomed appearance works best. If you typically wear facial hair, make sure it's neatly trimmed for your session.
The Importance of Texture and Fit
Subtle texture can add visual interest to your outfit without being distracting. A textured blazer, knit sweater, or silk blouse can add depth and dimension to your image while keeping the focus on your face.
Pay special attention to fit – this cannot be overstated. Ill-fitting garments can make you appear unprofessional or uncomfortable in photos. If necessary, have your chosen outfit tailored before your session. Well-fitted clothing always photographs better and helps you feel more confident.
Necklines Matter
Your neckline is particularly important in headshot photography since it frames your face. Crew necks can make your neck appear shorter, while V-necks, scoop necks, or collared shirts tend to be more flattering and create better proportions in the final image.
Color Considerations for Your Skin Tone
Colors that complement your skin tone can make a significant difference in how you appear in photos. Warm skin tones typically look great in earth tones, warm blues, and rich colors. Cool skin tones often shine in jewel tones, true blues, and crisp colors.
If you're unsure what colors work best for you, consider consulting with your photographer or a stylist before the session, or simply choose colors you've received compliments wearing.
Special Considerations
White Clothing: Avoid wearing pure white as your main color unless it's under a jacket or sweater. White can be challenging to photograph properly and may wash out your skin tone or create harsh contrasts.
Glasses: If you wear glasses regularly, consider whether you want them in your headshot. If so, make sure they're spotlessly clean and discuss with your photographer how to minimize glare and reflections.
Multiple Options: Consider bringing 2-3 different outfit options to your session. This gives you variety and allows you to see what works best with the lighting and background. Bring clothes on hangers to avoid wrinkles.
Austin Weather Considerations
If you're shooting in Austin's warm climate, especially for outdoor sessions, choose breathable fabrics that won't show perspiration. Light-colored fabrics can work well for outdoor Austin headshots since they reflect heat, but avoid pure white as your main outer layer.
For indoor studio sessions, you'll have complete climate control, so focus on what looks and feels best rather than weather considerations.
Final Preparation Tips
Ensure your chosen outfit is clean and wrinkle-free. Steam or iron your clothes before the session to guarantee they look crisp and professional. Pay attention to small details like loose threads, missing buttons, or lint.
Remember, the goal is to look like the best, most professional version of yourself. Your headshot should represent you authentically while presenting you in a polished, confident manner.
Making the Right Choice
By carefully considering your outfit choice, you ensure your headshot presents you in the best possible light, enhances your professional image, and helps you make a powerful first impression. The right clothing choice supports your professional goals and gives you confidence that shows through in your final images.
Take time to plan your outfit thoughtfully – it's an investment in how you'll be perceived professionally for years to come.
If you're in the Austin area and ready to elevate your professional image with high-quality headshots, I'd love to help. At MACH Photography, I specialize in creating compelling headshots that help Austin professionals stand out. Whether you need executive headshots, LinkedIn photos, or personal branding images, let's discuss how we can capture your best self. Contact me today to schedule your Austin headshot session.
