How to take your best shot!
Here are some things to consider before you take your new, professional headshot:
Before picking an outfit, think:
Where will this headshot be used?
Corporate / LinkedIn / executive → structured, classic, formal
Creative / entrepreneur/artist → a little more personality is great
Wellness/coaching / service-based business → approachable, warm, clean
Your clothing should match the tone of your industry.
1.) Choose solid colors over patterns
Solid colors photograph cleaner and more timeless.
Best choices:
Navy, charcoal, black, cream, camel, burgundy, forest green, soft blue
Jewel tones (teal, emerald, sapphire) work great for the camera
Avoid:
Tiny stripes, tight plaids, small patterns (they can create a “wavy” effect on camera)
Big logos or busy graphics (they date quickly)
Super bright neon shades (they can reflect color onto your face)
2.) Wear a neckline that flatters your face + body
Your neck and collar area is very prominent in headshots.
Most flattering options:
V-neck (lengthens the neck, slimming)
Scoop neck (soft + approachable)
Collared shirt (sharp and professional)
Blazer + top (always a win)
Avoid:
High crew necks if you feel they widen you (can look boxy)
Too-low cuts (can feel distracting and less professional)
3.) Think about texture — it adds depth
Texture reads beautifully on camera, especially in solid colors.
Great options:
Knits
Tweed
Matte fabrics
Soft structured cotton
Wool blends
Avoid:
Shiny satin or anything reflective (it highlights every wrinkle + catches light oddly)
4.) Layering makes a headshot look more elevated
Layers add structure and visual interest.
Good layering pieces:
Blazer
Cardigan (clean lines)
Structured jacket
Vest
Statement necklace over a simple top (if your brand supports it)
5.) Keep accessories simple and intentional
Think “supporting actor,” not “main character.”
Best approach:
Small earrings or studs
One necklace OR earrings (not both big)
A watch or simple rings are fine
Avoid:
Noisy bracelets (clanking = distraction)
Huge statement pieces that compete with your face
6.) Avoid trends — go timeless
A headshot should last 2–3 years.
Skip:
Trendy cuts that may date quickly
Anything you wouldn’t wear to meet an important client
Go for:
Classic silhouettes
Clean lines
Pieces that feel like “you on your best day.”
7. Prep like this (it matters!)
Steam or iron your outfit (wrinkles show!)
Lint roll everything
Try it on and take a quick phone selfie in natural light
Bring a backup top (always)
Bring powder or blotting papers if you get shiny
⭐ Easy “Safe Outfit Formula” That Always Works
✅ Blazer + solid top + simple jewelry
OR
✅ Solid top with flattering neckline + layer + neutral accessories