10 Styling Secrets
to Get Camera-Ready for Your Professional Headshots

Let’s convey your personality to your audience! You are the focal point, so put a face to the name. You have a gift to share and your headshots will reflect that. That’s the light we want others to see too. It’s career namaste! After your session, you’ll be ready to leverage your new headshots with your brand imagery across print, digital and social media platforms for growth! By the way, did you know that posts with photographs get more engagement–like over 35% more?! It’s neuroscience. We are built for human connection. Use it to your advantage–grow, succeed, thrive…

Want to know what to wear and how to get ready for your headshot? Read on for my top 10 wardrobe and hair & makeup secrets to get camera-ready and be effortlessly fashionable for your professional headshots.

Dress to Impress

1. A solid choice

   Solids are always in style! They put eyes on you rather than what you’re wearing. Reserve that bold, striped or herringbone pattern for your next business mixer instead. Rich, saturated hues like red and navy are power colors that captivate. Jewel tones like amethyst, emerald and topaz work well on a variety of skin tones and backdrops. You pretty much can’t go wrong with neutrals like cream, tan, olive or charcoal. Black on slate grey or white on a high-key background are classic and elegant. Just be mindful as other colors are more flexible and avoid black & white together in favor of less contrast.

2. A cut above the rest

   Your top will act to frame your face. Our eyes are drawn to skin and you want that focus to be on what matters–your face. Select a three-quarter or long sleeve with a neckline that won’t fall below the crop. Save your peekaboo shoulders and plunging neckline for date night. Button-ups are universally flattering. Women may also opt for a scoop, crew, v-neck or halter top. Closely-fitted clothing lends a cleaner look which tends to be the most flattering.

3. Audience matters

   Know who your audience is and how you want to come across. Your outfit should appeal to your ideal client. Add a blazer or jacket for a tailored, sophisticated vibe (think financial analyst or real estate agent). Pair a scoop neck with a cardigan for a softer, approachable vibe (think healthcare professional). Are you in a creative field? Flaunt your edgy aesthetic. Still can’t decide? It’s always ok to ask me. I love helping my clients sharpen their image and hone in on what works best for them and their own professional audience.

4. Look back to get ahead

   Will your backdrop be a seamless paper, corporate office, yoga studio or natural landscape? Consider how your outfit compliments or blends with the scene you’re in, whether you’re getting a studio headshot, an environmental portrait or both. This will help influence your color palette and the formality of your wardrobe too. Tailor your choices to your environment for a well planned, sharp image.

5. Accessorize and add layers

   Accessories add visual interest and show off your personal style. Wear a statement necklace, some dangly earrings or a classy scarf (a tie for men) to instantly stand out. You can change your whole look with the addition of a cardigan, wrap, blazer or jacket. It’s an easy way to switch things up for multiple looks. Hats, rings, sunglasses, watches and props can add a bit of storytelling to your headshot, especially if you’re going for a personal branding session. Bring options!

Your Self Makeover

Ladies–most of this is for you.
Gentlemen–don’t skip over this part!

1. Treat yourself

   Now is the time to put the focus on you, literally! Consider scheduling your haircut and color a week before your headshot session. After that week mark is when it falls most naturally. Get a fresh manicure. Your hands may come into play as a built-in prop. While you’re at it, groom your eyebrows too. Guys–have your facial hair professionally trimmed at a barber or go for a clean shave with some lead time to let your skin cool down. Men’s nails should be well-manicured too–trimmed and moisturized.

2. Tame your locks

   Whether you do your hair at home or book an appointment for a same-day blow out, aim for a face-framing hairstyle that is recognizably you. Put some attention into smoothing those flyaways. If you use products, opt for ones that will add shine over matte sprays and also won’t look greasy under the lights. Pack them along with you for touch ups.

3. Love the skin you’re in

   Drink plenty of water starting at least a day leading up to your headshot to give you that hydrated, radiant skin. Preparation is everything! Clean, moisturized skin, including your hands, is a good place to start on your shoot day. Use an oil-free liquid foundation for an even coverage that looks good on camera. Dab and blend concealer under your eyes and on blemishes. Keep powder on hand to reduce shine on set. Guys may want to raid their gal’s makeup drawer for this purpose–especially if you’re bald and proud.

4. Eyes, cheeks and lips

   For professional headshots, I recommend a soft and natural makeup palette with neutral shades–pinks and browns. Wear a lipstick or lip gloss color that you feel comfortable and empowered in and would wear to an important presentation or industry event. Men should moisturize with lip balm.

5. Finishing touches

   Emphasize your best features–those eyes. Finish them off with eyeliner or dark shadow along your upper lashes and mascara to define your eyes. Pop! Now you’re stunning and ready to slay the competition!

Bonus Tip

“Makeup blending and hair smoothing are two of the most important aspects of a professional-looking headshot because people’s eyes usually go to what’s out of place first. When one’s features are also played up, the subject shines.”
–Jo-Ann DiLorenzo, Hair & Makeup Artist

On Authenticity

You want people to recognize and identify with the real you, so ultimately wear what you feel confident and authentic in. Now you’re ready to step foot on set… I can’t wait to capture you! Ready to get to work?

Shine on set,
Leila