Whether you’re prepping for a headshot session, family portraits, or promo shots for your business, one of the most common questions I get is: what do I wear?
The most important thing about any photo, especially a headshot or branding image, is that it looks like you. It’s my job to make you comfortable on the other side of the lens, but it certainly helps if you’re dressed for the part! I feel that both of the above images (taken by the lovely McLeod9 associate, Christina Patsiokas) represent me well, though obviously I use them for different purposes. One feels more adventurous and playful, while the other is more professional. And the biggest difference? The top!
Do
Wear clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident. Layers tend to photograph well.
Choose well-fitting pieces over trendy ones, and steam or iron everything the night before.
Pick colors that flatter your skin tone. For branding shots, colors that echo your brand are a nice touch.
For groups and families, coordinate rather than match. Two to four shared colors look more natural than identical outfits.
Bring options! Your session includes a wardrobe consultation, so if you’re having a hard time deciding, I can help you choose what works best.
Skip
Extremely baggy clothes. They’re not flattering.
Busy patterns, tiny stripes, and large logos. They distract, and fine patterns can shimmer on camera.
Stark white. It pulls in light, and you want your face to be the brightest thing in the frame.
Too much jewelry. It’s distracting.
Transition (photochromic) lenses. I can’t see your eyes! If you wear glasses, anti-glare lenses are your best bet.
A few last tips
Book a haircut or color touch-up a few days before, not the day before.
Keep makeup natural and skip SPF-heavy products if we’ll be using flash, since they can cause a white cast.
Changing outfits on location? Wear a simple, fitted base layer so swapping is quick and easy (and nothing peeks out where it shouldn’t!)
Get a good night’s sleep and drink plenty of water.
Pack a lint roller, chap stick or gloss, and think about your favorite Spotify playlist in advance so I can have it ready to rock for you!
