What To Wear For Your Headshots | Norman, Oklahoma Brand Photographer
As a professional headshot photographer here in Oklahoma, the question I get asked most is… “What do I wear for my headshots?!” I understand that picking out what you’re going to wear for your headshots is sometimes harder than actually being in front of the camera!
I’ve created the following guide on what to wear for your headshots to educate you on what looks best in photos and how to choose the right outfit for your headshot session.
Choose Colors That Work With Your Skin Tone
The focus of your headshot should be your face and not an overly loud outfit. Stick with neutrals and muted tones if you want people to connect with you and your personality. Think about the colors that you look best in. If you’re drawn to a certain color, and it compliments your skin tone, wear it! As a general rule it’s better to avoid bright colors and pastels but as a side note, if red or pink are your signature colors, then by all means own it!
Solids Are Best
Solids are generally best for headshots. Large patterns can be loud and distracting and you definitely want to avoid small tight prints like pinstripes, polka dots, and tweed because they can create an optical illusion in images called moiré, which has a warped look. It’s totally okay to layer a medium pattern under a solid top or jacket for more interest.
Dress To Impress And According Your Industry
Think about the purpose of a headshot, it’s usually to look like a professional and gain recognition as an expert in your field. Choose an outfit that’s appropriate for the industry you work in. An easy way to think about this is to dress like your boss or dress to impress an ideal client.
Choose Moderately Open Necklines
Some of the best necklines for headshots are modest V necks, crew or boat necklines. I think it’s best to avoid turtlenecks for headshots because they can make you look like you don’t have a neck in photos, which isn’t flattering. Men want to avoid buttoned shirts that are too tight around their neck and cause bulging.
Wear Long Sleeves Or Three-Quarter Length Sleeves
Again, this depends on the industry you’re in but long sleeves or three-quarter length sleeves generally look more professional. Very often, I’ll have you turned at an angle to my camera so your arms will be at the forefront.
Layers Work Well
Layers can work well for headshots but it’s important to be strategic about the color and fit. Lighter colors should be worn underneath with the darker color worn on top in the form of a suit jacket, blazer, or cardigan sweater.
Accessories
Jewelry and other accessories can add interest but keep it simple as to not distract from your eyes, smile, and overall expression.
Choose Clothes That Fit Well
Clothing should be well tailored and suited for your body type. Baggy or loose clothing can make you appear larger in photos. Avoid clothes that are too tight or clingy, showing every bump, bulge, and imperfection.
Look Put Together
Arrive with clothes that are ironed and lint free. You may want to bring your shirt or jacket on a hanger and put it on right before your session so it doesn’t get wrinkled in the car. Ladies: wear the right bra for the shirt you’ll be wearing and make sure the color or seams don’t show through.
Things To Avoid
Overly bright or neon colors
Graphics or brand logos unless it’s your company’s logo
Loud and busy patterns
Small patterns such as pinstripes, tweed, tiny polka dots
Shiny, reflective clothing
Baggy clothing
Clothing that is too tight and causes bulging
Let’s Talk About Glasses!
If you wear glasses, PLEASE try and bring a pair with minimal or no glare reducing coating. The purple tint that reduces screen glare is a nightmare for photos because you will see the purple sheen in the images. Clean your lenses beforehand because the camera will pick up smudges and dust particles.
I understand this is a lot of information so if you have any questions at all, please don’t hesitate to reach out! Shoot me a text or email and I’ll respond as quickly as possible. Feel free to include photos of the outfits you’re considering and I can give you my professional opinion.
