TIPS FOR YOUR NEXT PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOT

When deciding on what to wear for your professional headshot, think about the image you are trying to project. Your clothing, hair style, make-up, tie color/pattern and jewelry all play a role in the outcome of your image. Select pieces that are professional and reflect the image you would like to convey. Click here for some ideas based on headshots we have photographed in the past.

CLOTHING COLORS
Generally colors that tend to work well are deep, saturated colors. Pair these colors with neutrals like gray, navy or earth tones. Choose colors that flatter your skin tone. Wear red if you want your image to really stand out. Red is a “power” color. While the color black works in small amounts, try to avoid clothing that is entirely black or white. Both colors tend to flatten and lose depth. Either color can work, but try to avoid them as solids unless you plan on layering. Avoid nude colored tops close to your own skin tone. Lighter skin tones specifically should also avoid pastel tops, as these colors can tend to wash you out.

“POP” YOUR EYE COLOR WITH YOUR CLOTHING
Choose clothing colors that “pop” your eye color. If your eyes are blue, choose colors like blue, purple or pinks. Purple and yellow do a great job making green eyes really stand out. For hazel eyes, try orange or purple. Wearing green if you have brown eyes will make them appear lighter. A warm gold color will make your eyes sparkle if they are dark. Almost any shade of blue will look great if you have a dark eye color as the extreme contrast of the blue will help them pop. Remember skin tone and hair color play a role as well, so use your judgement as to which colors are the most flattering on you.

GROUP IMAGES
If your photo session calls for group images, neutrals and solids tend to work best. Primary colors and patterns can be a distraction when there are several different people in the composition. When in doubt, bring another option as far as a top or tie. Jewel tones mixed with neutral textured layers tend to set each subject apart while maintaining a cohessive composition overall. Try to err on the side of charcoal or navy suits over a black. To maintain continuity while creating a diverse image, its best if everyone is in the same general color scheme without wearing the exact same color. Keep in mind if you have specific branding colors, it is great to pepper those colors in without everyone being uniformed.

MEN
When choosing what to wear for your professional headshot, think about what kind of look works best for your industry.

If you plan on wearing a tie, bring several options to choose from. Classic patterns are ideal and will extend the life of your headshot. Choose tie colors that compliment your skin tone. For example, a blue tie will “pop” for blue eyes.

A gray or navy suit, fitted white dress shirt and a subtle patterned tie is always a classic and timeless look. A slim fit suit with a narrow lapel tends to look more modern when coupled with a thin tie.

For a business casual look, choose a sports coat in a neutral color like navy or gray. Pair with a button down collared dress shirt in white or light blue. Alternatively, add a sweater under your jacket for different look.

If you are not planning on wearing a jacket in your headshot, choose a collared button up dress shirt that fits snug to the back of the neck.

WOMEN: HAIR & MAKE-UP
If you feel confident with doing your hair on your own, that is fantastic. Otherwise, we recommend getting a blow-out or to have your hair styled before your photo shoot. That way your hair is looking its best!

Go to your favorite salon or check out our friends at Andreas Hogue Salon in Northbrook, just a few minutes from our studio. Or for the ultimate experience, we can have one of the hair/make-up stylists from Andreas Hogue Salon “on-set” during your session. Let us know if you are interested.

LAYERING CLOTHING
Layering clothing adds depth and interest to your headshot, so a blouse or cami under a jacket can look great. 

BRING A VARIETY OF OPTIONS
Feel free to bring multiple ties, tops, accessories, clothing pieces, or even outfits. Sometimes the ensemble that you didn’t think would work happens to work the best. We would rather have you bring multiple options so that we can see what works. Tops with varied neck lines are also great to have on hand.

READY TO BOOK?
To book please email or call us at 847-729-4466.