How to Prepare for Your Professional Headshot: Essential Tips for a Great Session

Getting ready for a professional headshot session can feel a little daunting, especially if you’re not sure how to prepare. The good news? A few simple steps can ensure you look and feel your best, resulting in a headshot that you’re proud to share. Whether you’re booking a headshot for LinkedIn, a personal brand, or a corporate profile, these tips will guide you through the preparation process.

1. Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Your face tells a story, and a well-rested face is bright, alert, and full of energy. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep the night before your session. Not only will this help minimize under-eye circles, but it will also boost your mood and confidence. Hydrate well in the days leading up to your session to keep your skin looking fresh and healthy.

2. What to Wear: Choosing the Right Outfit

Your outfit plays a huge role in the overall impression of your headshot. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

• Solid Colors Are Your Friend: Patterns and busy prints can distract from your face. Stick with solid colors that complement your skin tone. Jewel tones like navy, emerald green, burgundy, and deep purple tend to photograph beautifully.
• Avoid Distracting Accessories: Keep jewelry minimal and understated unless it’s an essential part of your personal brand. Dangly earrings or large necklaces can draw attention away from your face.
• Dress for Your Brand: If your industry is corporate, opt for classic business attire like a blazer and button-down shirt. If you’re in a creative or casual field, choose clothing that reflects your personality but still looks polished.
• Press and Prep: Wrinkled clothing can’t be easily fixed in post-production, so make sure your clothes are clean, pressed, and ready to go. Bring them on hangers to avoid wrinkles during transport.
• Bring Options: If you’re unsure about what to wear, bring a couple of extra tops or jackets to your session. I'm happy to offer suggestions. Or, you can also send me questions regarding outfits prior to our session.

3. Hair and Makeup: Keep It Simple

• Hair: If you’re planning a haircut or color, schedule it at least a week before your shoot to give it time to settle. For the day of the session, come with your hair styled as you normally wear it, and bring a brush or comb for touch-ups.
• Makeup: The goal is to enhance your natural features. Avoid heavy makeup; instead, aim for a polished and clean look. If you’re hiring a professional makeup artist, let them know it’s for a photo shoot so they can use camera-friendly techniques.
• For Men: Make sure your facial hair is groomed to your preference. If you’re clean-shaven, shave the morning of the shoot to avoid a five-o’clock shadow.

4. Practice Your Smile

Your expression can make or break a headshot. Practice smiling in front of a mirror to find a natural, relaxed look that feels comfortable. Don’t be afraid to experiment with subtle variations—a big smile, a soft smile, or even a confident, serious look. During the session, I will gladly guide you to achieve the best expressions.

5. Plan Ahead for the Day of the Shoot

• Timing: Arrive 5-10 minutes early so you’re not rushed. Feeling calm and relaxed is key to a great photo.
• Bring Touch-Up Essentials: Pack items like a lint roller, blotting papers, powder for shine, lip balm, and a small mirror. These small touches can make a big difference.
• Hydrate and Eat: Drink water and eat a light meal before your session. You don’t want to feel hungry or dehydrated during the shoot.

6. Mindset: Bring Confidence and Relax

Your attitude matters as much as your outfit. Approach the session with a positive mindset, and trust your photographer to guide you. If you feel nervous, take a few deep breaths and remember that the session is about showcasing your best self.

7. After the Shoot: Reviewing Your Photos

You will definitely be able to review your images during or after the session. Be honest about what you like and don’t like—this feedback is helpful for selecting your final shots.

FAQ: Common Questions About Headshot Sessions

Q: Can I wear glasses in my headshot?A: Yes, but make sure your lenses are clean and free of glare. Consider wearing frames that aren’t too bold unless they’re a signature part of your look.

Q: What if I don’t like having my photo taken?A: I work with clients pretty much every day that are not a fan of having their photos taken. And I'm happy to say all of them (so far) have left complimenting me on how comfortable I make them feel during the shoot. So, rest assure, I will do the same for you.

Q: How long will the session take?A: Please review the package you're selected for information about length of shoot, etc.

Q: Will my photos be retouched?A: Yes! I strive to make you look your absolute best!

Final Thoughts

A professional headshot is an investment in your personal and professional brand. By taking the time to prepare, you can ensure your session runs smoothly and yields results you’ll love. From choosing the right outfit to getting a good night’s sleep, every detail adds up to a confident and polished look that reflects the real you.

If you have any additional questions or concerns before your session, don’t hesitate to reach out!

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