“What should I wear?” comes right after “how much does it cost.” The good news: you don’t need a new wardrobe. You need clothes that fit well and don’t compete with your face.
Here’s what I tell every client before a session.
Start with fit
Fit matters more than brand or price. A jacket that sits well on your shoulders reads as sharp on camera, while one that’s too big looks like you borrowed it. If you can, try your outfit on the day before and check it in a mirror from the chest up, because that’s all the camera usually sees.
Choose solid colours
Solid colours keep attention on your face. Mid to deep tones like navy, charcoal, forest green, burgundy and soft blues work for almost everyone. Black and white both work too. Pick what feels like you, then bring a backup.
Skip:
- busy patterns, small checks and thin stripes, which can shimmer on camera
- big logos and slogans
- anything wrinkled, so hang it up or steam it the night before
Necklines and layers
Necklines that leave a little space below your chin help your face and neck look their best. Layers, like a blazer over a top, add depth and let us change the look quickly by removing one piece.
Bring options
Studio sessions with me include any number of outfits, so bring two or three. We test them on camera, look at them together on the laptop, and keep what works. If your headshot is for a specific use, such as a law firm bio, a casting submission or a realtor sign, let me know so we can plan around it.
Glasses, jewellery and grooming
- Glasses: if you wear them every day, wear them in your headshot. I’ll adjust the lighting to reduce glare.
- Jewellery: simple is best. Small earrings and a watch are great, statement pieces can distract.
- Grooming: a fresh haircut a few days before your session usually looks better than one the same morning. Bring lip balm, and a comb or brush.
The most important thing
Get a good night’s sleep and show up as yourself. My job is to direct you, relax you and catch the moment you look like you on your best day. You don’t need to know how to pose. That’s what I’m there for.
Everyone who books a studio headshot session gets my prep guide by email, with a few more tips.
