1. What to wear

Clothing Color - Solid colors or small patterns are your best choice for a professional headshot session. Large patterns or prints are fine if you plan to wear a jacket or cardigan over the shirt so the overall look is not too busy and distracting.

Light complexions - choose mid-tone and jewel-toned colors in blue, green, and purple. These colors are often flattering on many people.  Avoid wearing tops in flesh tones or pastels like peach or yellow, as they may wash out your skin tone. Dark or olive complexions - you can pick lighter colors to compliment your skin tone, try shades of purple, pink, yellow, green, copper, gold and bronze. The best bet is to hold up the blouse and see how it looks against your facetone. Most people look good in a black jacket, top or dress, as well, so that could be a good choice too.

Clothing and Jewelry Style - Bring a few different options, and add layers for visual interest, examples: fitted jackets and cardigans over blouses or a form fitting dress. Choose ¾ sleeves or short sleeves, avoid sleeveless tops unless under jackets, unless you are especially fit and want to show off your arms.Avoid low cut tops since the photographer may sometimes use a higher angle to photograph you.

Choose jewelry that is your style and works with each outfit you bring. Avoid big and bulky clothes because it adds bulk to your size in the images—and nobody wants that! Bring outfits that you love and fit you well. 

2. Skin Preparation

Preparing your skin for a photoshoot is essential to ensure you look your best in front of the camera. When getting ready for your session, avoiding makeup products with shimmer, sparkle, or excessive shine is important, as these can affect how light interacts with your skin in photographs. Additionally, try to resist the temptation of getting a new haircut right before the shoot. It's often better to let your hair grow in a little or get used to styling a new cut so you feel comfortable and confident.

It's also crucial to avoid experimenting with any new products on your hair, face, or body in the days leading up to the shoot. The last thing you want is an unexpected reaction. If you're not completely confident in your makeup skills, don't fret. We can arrange for a professional makeup and hair artist for your session. Remember, though, that this needs to be booked in advance to ensure availability.

And don't worry if a blemish appears on the day of the shoot - it can easily be retouched in the final images. A pro tip for looking flawless in photos is to wear a layer of translucent powder. This little trick is perfect for diminishing shine and reducing the appearance of pores, giving you a smooth and photogenic finish. With these simple steps, you'll be camera-ready and looking your best.

3. Nails

Sometimes, your hands will be in the frame of the photo. Please make sure nails are trimmed and neat looking with either a clear or neutral (not chipped) polish.  

4. Body Concerns

Do I need to lose 15 pounds before my photosession? No! An experienced portrait photographer will be able to use lighting and posing to create the most flattering headshot of you. Plus most headshots are from the chest up and should focus on your face and not your body. Be sure to discuss your concerns with your photographer when planning the photo session so that she can advise you on your most flattering wardrobe choices to bring to the session.  

Once you have all of the tips worked out, then how do you find a great headshot photographer?Ask for recommendations from friends but also be sure to look at the websites of the headshot photographers you are considering hiring. It is important to hire an experienced professional photographer whose portfolio and style you admire. Look for a photographer who brings out natural expressions in people.