Preparing for your Headshot Session
If you’re organizing headshots for yourself or your team, there’s one thing that makes the biggest difference in how the final images turn out: Preparation.
When you feel prepared, you’ll feel more confident. When you feel confident, the images look stronger, more natural, and more aligned with your brand.
Below is a guide you can use to prepare for your own session or send directly to your team before headshot day to help everyone feel ready and comfortable.
Below is a guide you can use to prepare for your own session or send directly to your team before headshot day to help everyone feel ready and comfortable.
Let’s get started.
What to Wear
Try your outfit on a few days before
Don’t wait until the morning of. Try everything on in advance to make sure it fits the way you want, feels comfortable, and doesn’t need steaming or tailoring. This avoids unnecessary stress on photo day.
Stick to solid colours
Solid tones photograph best. Neutrals (navy, charcoal, cream, soft blue, forest green, burgundy) are always safe and professional. Check with your company liaison if they have a colour palette they’d like to stick with.
Avoid busy patterns and logos
Small patterns, thin stripes, and bold prints can be distracting on camera. No graphics or visible logos.
Choose something that feels like “you”
This is still your headshot. If you usually wear blazers - great. If your workplace is more relaxed, a clean knit or structured top works beautifully. Bring a second option if unsure.
If time allows, we can quickly help choose between two options.
Think about neckline and fit
Structured pieces photograph beautifully. Avoid overly loose, wrinkled, or very tight clothing.
Grooming & Personal Care
Hair
Style your hair the way you normally would for an important meeting.
Avoid drastic new styles right before photo day.
Makeup
Keep it natural and polished.
Matte products reduce shine.
A little more than everyday makeup photographs well, but avoid heavy shimmer.
Glasses
If you normally wear glasses, wear them. We’ll work to remove any glare.
Clean lenses before arriving.
Skin
Get a good night’s sleep.
Drink water.
If your lips are dry, put on chapstick before your shoot (dry skin is hard to edit out).
Avoid trying new skincare products the day before.
Day-Of Tips
Arrive a few minutes early.
Check clothing for lint or wrinkles.
Take a few deep breaths - we’ll guide you through posing and expressions. There is no rush.
You don’t need to know how to pose. We’ll direct you every step of the way so you feel comfortable and confident.
Looking forward to working with you!
-Lindsay