Are you ready for your closeup?

Great headshots don’t happen by accident.

WARDROBE: What to Wear

The #1 question we get is, "What should I wear?" The goal is for the viewer to notice your face, not your clothes.

The "Do" List

  • DO Dress for Your Audience: Ask yourself: Who is looking at this photo? If you work in finance or law, formal attire (suit/tie) is appropriate. If you are a creative or founder, a blazer with a t-shirt might be the right laid back vibe.

  • DO Wear Solids: Solid colors work best as they draw attention to your face. Deep blues, greens, and reds are high-impact choices. Navy is particularly powerful—it looks rich, flattering, and timeless on almost everyone.

  • DO Bring Layers: A blazer, jacket, or cardigan adds dimension and versatility. We can shoot with the jacket on for a corporate authority look and take it off for a casual approachable look.

  • DO Prioritize Fit: Baggy clothes look sloppy; tight fitting clothes look uncomfortable. Pro Tip: Try on your outfits before the day of the session. If it needs tailoring or steaming, do it now.

The "Don't" List

  • DON'T Wear Loud Patterns: Avoid tight grids, small herringbones, or busy prints. They can cause a moiré effect (shimmering lines) on screens and distract from your expression.

  • DON'T Wear Scarves: While stylish in person, scarves often add unnecessary bulk in a headshot and can swallow your neck. Keep the neckline clean.

  • DON'T Wear Outdated Ties: If you wear a tie, ensure it is modern and updated. Dated patterns can age your photo instantly.

  • DON'T Ignore the Undershirt: If you wear a dress shirt without a tie, ensure your undershirt is a V-neck and not visible.

GROOMING: Hair, Skin & Makeup

Your face is the focal point. Here’s how to prep it.

Hair & Skin

  • The 1-Week Rule: Try to schedule your haircut about one week before your session. This gives it time to settle and avoids that freshly cut look or awkward tan lines on your neck/forehead.

  • Coloring: If you color your hair, do it at least a week prior to avoid skin staining.

  • Stick to the Familiar: Now is not the time to try a radical new hairstyle. You want people to actually recognize you when you walk into the meeting.

  • The Zero-Touch Rule: Wake up with a blemish? Do not pick it. It is easy for us to retouch a spot. Leave it to us.

  • Hydrate Early: Start drinking plenty of water the day before your session. Hydrated skin looks younger and smoother.

  • Skip the Spray Tan: Artificial tans often turn orange under studio lights. It is much safer to stick to your natural skin tone.

Makeup: Corporate, Not WeddinG

  • The Golden Rule: Don't think glamour or wedding. Think important corporate meeting. Your makeup should look like the best version of your daily self.

  • Matte is King: If you do your own makeup, ensure it has a matte finish to avoid shine under powerful studio lights. Avoid heavy highlighters, as they can look like sweat on camera.

  • Lips: Just a kiss of your go-to lip product is often all you need.

For The Guys: If you rock a beard or stubble, trim and groom it so it looks intentional and clean.

THE ESSENTIAL CHECKLIST

The Morning of Your Session

[ ] Iron/Steam Your Clothes: The camera sees wrinkles that the eye misses. Bring clothes on hangers, not stuffed in a bag.

[ ] Eat a Meal: A nutritious meal a few hours before the session helps maintain your energy.

[ ] Check Your Mindset: Approach the session with a positive mindset. Listen to your favorite music on the way over.

IV. FINAL THOUGHTS

"But, I'm Not Photogenic." If you are thinking this, stop. It’s not your job to be photogenic; it’s our job to coach you.

  • Trust the Process: We will guide you through lighting, posing, and expression.

  • Speak Up: If you are nervous or don't like a specific angle, communicate with us! We are a team.

Ready to look like a market leader? We can't wait to see you in the studio. Get some sleep, drink some water, and bring your best outfits. We will handle the rest.