WHAT TO WEAR FOR HEADSHOTS PHOTOGRAPHY

Wardrobe Selection – 

Your attire should reflect your professional role and industry standards:

• Colors: Opt for solid, mid-tone colors like navy, gray, or jewel tones. Avoid overly bright or neon colors.

• Patterns: Steer clear of busy patterns or logos that can distract from your face.

• Fit: Ensure your clothing fits well and is comfortable. Ill-fitting attire can be noticeable in photos.

• Accessories: Keep jewelry minimal and professional.

Bringing multiple outfit options can provide variety and flexibility during the session if you book our VIP Session.

Tie or No Tie? Here’s Our Expert Take – From Headshot Specialist

One of the most common questions we receive at Headshot Specialist is: “Should I wear a tie for my headshot?” The answer depends on the image you want to project.

For modern corporate headshots—especially those intended for LinkedIn, websites, and speaking engagements—many men are opting not to wear a tie. This choice often communicates approachability, confidence, and contemporary professionalism. In fact, senior executives and C-suite professionals increasingly choose an open collar to appear more relatable without sacrificing authority.

That said, a well-chosen tie can still be a powerful tool—especially when you’re aiming to present a polished, traditional, or more formal look. If you decide to wear one, we strongly recommend ties with subtle or minimal patternsand modern widths. A classic, streamlined tie can add sophistication and structure to your headshot when executed correctly.

Solid Colors:

Solid colors are the best for headshots because it is less distracting. Patterns will take attention away from your face. For professional headshots, the person viewing the headshot needs to be drawn into the face and not get distracted by outfit choices. We find that solid colors work best to do justice to your headshot.

Transparent Tops:

When selecting your clothing for your headshot session, make sure to try the tops on the day before. It’s important that your undergarments are not seen through your top and in your headshots. We would recommend wearing a jacket or blazer over this.

Using a business jacket or a coat will give you a more corporate / business look. We capture headshots with and without a blazer, giving you the choice to have both. Your headshot has a purpose so we would recommend that you be ready to own that headshot!

Rest:

This has to be one of the most underrated tips. We always advise clients to get enough rest. This is your investment and we want you to look your best. We don’t want you to look tired. Your impression really matters to us.

Hair and Makeup:

We recommend keeping your hair and makeup natural and polished to ensure your features shine in the headshot. Avoid heavy makeup or dramatic hairstyles that may overshadow your natural beauty. We highly recommend using our hair and makeup artist. She has years of experience with headshot photography makeup and hair styling. A professional makeup artist can make a huge difference.

Avoid getting a haircut the same day or the day before the photoshoot. Most haircuts need a couple days to settle.

Apply only oil-free moisturizer and an eye cream prior to your session. If you need a makeup artist, please contact us. Our hair and makeup artist has years of experience with headshot photography makeup.

Glasses:

If you wear glasses on a daily basis, we recommend wearing them. We can capture headshots with and without glasses so you have options to select from.

Stay hydrated:

Drink plenty we of water the week of your headshot. Try to avoid sugary or pop drinks as this does not help your skin.

Rest:

You want to look rested, confident and amazing in your headshot. Try to go to bed earlier the day before your headshot as this really helps.