How to Prepare for Your Professional Headshot Session

Whether you are a lawyer, real estate agent, business professional, or looking for a job, your headshot is an essential part of your personal and professional brand. Preparation is the key to ensuring you have a successful photoshoot and love your headshots.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for your session:

1. Hair: Don’t Cut It The Day Before

Your hairstyle plays a crucial role in how you present yourself in photos. While it might be tempting to get a fresh haircut or color the day before your photo session, don’t do it! Instead:

• Schedule your haircut or color at least a week before the session. This allows your hair to settle and look more natural.
• I do not recommend changing your hairstyle right before your photo session. If you want to change it, hold off on hiring a headshot photographer, do it at least a few weeks before to ensure you’re comfortable with the new look.
• For women with longer hair, plan to wear it down or style it neatly.

2. Outfit: Keep It Simple and Timeless

Your clothing choice can make or break your headshot. Here’s how to choose the perfect outfit:

• Avoid small patterns like dots or stripes. These can create distractions or even distort your final photos and cannot be edited. If you love patterns, go for larger patterns.
• Stick to solid, neutral colors, or shades that complement your skin tone. If you are unsure what colors work for your skin tone, I highly recommend getting your color analysis done with a personal stylist, it’s a game changer! I love wearing colors now.
• Stay away from trends that may date your photo quickly. Think timeless.
• Bring a few options to the shoot. Your photographer can help you decide which works best.

3. Makeup: Invest in a Professional Makeup Artist, it’s worth it!

Even if you wear little makeup or not at all, hiring a professional hair and makeup artist can make a huge difference in how you feel and give you a polished and flawless look. Here’s why:

• A professional makeup artist understands how to enhance your features and ensure your makeup withstands the studio lights.
• They’ll know how to avoid common pitfalls like shiny skin or mismatched foundation.
• They will ensure your hair and makeup are done properly for your headshot session.
• If hiring a makeup artist isn’t an option, go for a natural look. Focus on even skin tone, defined eyes, and neutral lip colors.

Bonus Tips for a Stress-Free Session:

• Practice your expressions: Stand in front of a mirror and experiment with smiles and angles to find your best look.
• Communicate with your photographer: Share any concerns or preferences to ensure they capture your vision.
• The day before:
  • Choose and lay out all the outfits and accessories the night before (clothes, socks, shoes, jewelry, etc.).
  • Pack everything you need to bring for your photoshoot (extra outfits, water, snacks, your favorite lipstick color, etc.).
  • Hydrate and rest. Well-rested, hydrated skin glows naturally.
• The day of:
  • Eat a healthy meal or snack before your photo session so you are energized
  • Photoshoot time! It’s time to relax and have fun! Let me guide you all the way.

Preparing for your professional headshot session doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little planning, communicating with your photographer, and these tips in mind, you’ll feel confident and ready to shine in front of the camera.

Want a freebie? Download your copy of the Ultimate Wardrobe Guide for Stunning Photos HERE.

A great headshot is an investment in yourself and your career. If you are ready to book a headshot session, let’s chat! Schedule a discovery call today.