A great headshot isn't about looking "camera ready" — it's about looking like you, on your best day.

Here's how to get the most out of your session, whether you're booking a solo shoot or coming through one of my headshot events.

 

Book with a Purpose in Mind

Before you even schedule, think about where these photos will live: LinkedIn, a company site, marketing materials, social media, or personal platform. The context changes the vibe. A photo for a corporate directory can be a little more polished and neutral; a headshot for your own brand and socials can carry more personality. Tell your photographer this up front — it shapes lighting, background choice, and how many "looks" you'll want to capture.


If these photos are going on your website, social profiles, or business cards, it's also worth thinking about your brand colors. An outfit that complements (or at least doesn't clash with) your logo and color palette makes the final images feel like a cohesive part of your brand, not a random photo dropped into your marketing.


Wardrobe:

Keep It Simple, Keep It You

  • Solid colors photograph best. Busy patterns, small stripes, and loud logos distract from your face and can create visual buzzing in photos.
  • Think about contrast with the studio's background. If you're not sure what background will be used, ask ahead of time.
  • Focus on fit. Tailored clothing generally photographs better, but no one knows your style better than you do, so wear whatever makes you feel your best. Avoid trying to be overly trendy, as you want the photo to be timeless and last you for at least 1–2 years. The comfier you feel, the more natural you'll appear!
  • Minimize accessories. Keep jewelry and accessories subtle so the focus remains on your face. If you wear a smartwatch or other tech wearables, it's best to remove them for the shoot to keep the image timeless.
  • Avoid anything brand new. Wear it once before the shoot so you're not fidgeting with tags, stiff fabric, or an unfamiliar fit.
  • Iron or steam everything the night before. Wrinkles show up more than people expect, especially in close crops.
  • Pack a lint roller. If you've got pets at home, hair has a way of finding dark clothing right before you walk out the door — a quick roll before your session saves a lot of touch-up time later.
Smiling woman with long brown hair in a black blazer, white tee, and gray jeans poses with a hand in her pocket against a white wall.

Skin, Hair, and Makeup


You don't need a full glam session to look great — but a few small things go a long way:

  • Stay hydrated for a day or two beforehand; it shows in your skin.
  • If you wear makeup normally, wear it the way you always do. Session day is not the day to try a new look. Keep it natural but also true to you — if you're prone to shine it might be worth bringing a translucent powder or oil-absorbing sheets to use right before we shoot.
  • Fresh haircuts should happen at least a week out, not the morning of, so it has time to settle into how you actually wear it.
A makeup artist in a black top applies mascara to a smiling blonde woman in a navy floral dress seated in a chair.
Black director's chair sits in a bright, airy studio with a sofa in the background and blurred makeup supplies in the foreground.

What to Expect During the Session

Expect direction, not just "say cheese." Part of my job is coaxing real expressions out of you — a slight chin adjustment, a different angle, a prompt to think about something specific. What you don't see in a headshot: the small talk before, moving that little strand of hair back, the laugh that finally gets the real smile. Getting the professional shot without losing the person behind it is the whole point. Don't be afraid to ask to see a shot on the back of the camera partway through; it helps you understand what's working and relax into it.

A photographer with a hair bun captures a smiling bearded man in a vest and white shirt during a professional portrait session.
Close-up of a seated man's brown leather cap-toe dress shoes and black socks with a purple floral pattern, paired with dark navy trousers.

The Bottom Line

The best headshots don't look like you tried too hard — they look like you on a good day, doing the thing you're good at. A little prep removes the stuff that gets in the way so what's left is just you.

Ready to book a session or reserve a spot at the next headshot event? Reach out and let's find a time that works.

Smiling woman with long blonde hair wearing a navy sleeveless jumpsuit with white print and tan block-heel sandals, hand in pocket.
Laughing bearded man in a dark suit and white shirt sits on a brown leather chair with clasped hands against a light backdrop.
Smiling woman with long dark hair in a pink sleeveless top and black jeans leans against sheer white curtains in a bright studio.
Confident smiling man in a navy checked suit and white open-collar shirt poses with one hand in his pocket against a dark background.
Smiling woman with wavy brown hair in a black tank top, black belt with gold buckle, and dark denim jeans poses with hands in her pockets.