✨ Ready for Your Close-Up? Your Headshot Preparation Guide

A professional headshot is your most valuable visual asset. It needs to project confidence, professionalism, and authenticity. Follow this guide to ensure you arrive relaxed, prepared, and ready to capture your absolute best image!

📸 Appearance: The Day-of Details

Hair and Grooming

• Men: Aim for a polished and neat look. Get a professional haircut or trim any facial hair one week before the shoot so it looks natural and settled.

• Women: Your hair should be styled in a way that is classic and professional. Avoid overly trendy styles that could quickly date the photo.

• Makeup (Women): The key is matte and natural. Focus on even skin tone and subtle feature enhancement. Crucially, use matte products to prevent shine under the studio lights. Avoid heavy, dramatic, or colorful makeup.

• Men's Grooming: A little shine control goes a long way. Consider using a light mattifying powder to reduce any shine on the forehead and nose.

Clothing: What to Wear

The Golden Rule: Choose clothes that are clean, ironed, and fit you perfectly. Wrinkles and poor fit are distracting and difficult to fix.

• Business Professional (Men): Wear a well-fitted suit jacket with a collared shirt (white or light blue is a classic choice). Ties should be simple and professional.

• Business Professional (Women): Wear a tailored blazer or suit jacket with a professional blouse or shell underneath.

• Business Casual: A smart sweater or collared shirt with a blazer works well for both men and women.

• Best Colors: Solid, darker colors (navy, charcoal, black, dark jewel tones) are ideal, as they keep the focus on your face.

• Avoid: Busy patterns, distracting stripes, large logos, or anything too tight or too loose.

Accessories

• Keep it Simple: Accessories should complement your look, not dominate it.

• Acceptable Jewelry: Stud earrings, a simple chain necklace, and a classic watch are perfect.

• Avoid: Large, dangling, or overly ornate jewelry, as they can draw attention away from your expression.

✅ Preparation: Your Checklist

• Rest: Get a full 8 hours of sleep the night before. This is the single best thing you can do to look refreshed and alert.

• Nourish: Stay well hydrated and eat a light, healthy meal an hour before your session to maintain energy.

• Research: Look at headshots within your industry. Having a general style in mind will help us align on the desired look.

• Practice: While I will guide you, practicing a confident, subtle smile or professional expression in the mirror can help you feel ready.

🤝 During the Session: Your Best Strategy

• Communicate: If you have a preferred side or any concerns, share them with me right away.

• Be Yourself: The goal is an authentic, approachable photo. Project confidence and trust my process.

• Trust the Photographer: Relax! I will guide you on posing, expression, and posture to ensure we capture your strongest image.