In this day and age of multiple social media platforms, it’s a great idea to have a professional headshot that really shows who you are to people you may be connecting with. From corporate business headshots on LinkedIn to fun branding photos that showcase your personality to sleek, professional actor’s headshots, I’ve put together a few tips and suggestions for both men and women to help make sure your headshot really pops.
For Women
If your budget allows for it, I highly recommend spending a little bit of extra money on professional make-up and hair for your headshot session. A good professional make-up artist will know what will look great under the studio lights and on camera. There’s no need to go over the top with hair and make-up, but having both of these taken care of by a professional will make you feel confident and beautiful at your session.
*For youth/teenagers ~ if you are comfortable with make-up, natural-looking make-up is encouraged, including blush, mascara and neutral lipgloss. Please avoid bright lipsticks or overwhelming eye shadows.
Corporate Headshots:
For studio business headshots, solid colours translate best so avoid busy patterns. At my studio, I can shoot primarily against a white backdrop, so when planning your outfit, think about what colours might work best with this set-up. For example, jewel tones and darker colours show up really well against white; however, that shouldn’t deter you from wearing lighter colours! Pastels can also be lovely – just avoid solid whites, if possible.
Both blouses or jackets with collared shirts work nicely for corporate headshots. Make sure to choose attire that is somewhat modest, and pay attention to the neckline – low-cut or shoulder-less doesn’t translate well when the photo is cropped closely. Feel free to accent your outfit with simple jewelry options. You are also welcome to text or email me with any questions!
Branding or Casual Headshots
When choosing your clothing for a branding or casual headshot session, start by choosing outfits that match or complement the colours of your brand or website. Pick attire that accentuates your personality but won’t necessarily feel dated in a few years (stay away from the super-trendy).
Layers and jewelry are super fun so feel free to incorporate jackets, scarves and simple necklaces. Textures and small patterns can add interest to your headshot, and give some insight into your personality – just make sure that the patterns aren’t too large and distracting. Make sure necklines aren’t too low as this doesn’t always look great when cropped in closely.
Actor’s Headshots
With an actor’s headshot, we want the focus to be on YOU. Wear simple solid colours that complement your skin tone (jewel tones look great on almost everyone), and avoid busy patterns and logos at all costs. Simple jewelry is ok, but avoid anything that takes away from the real subject of the photo – you!
Again, pay attention to your neckline. Anything low cut or off the shoulder makes it difficult to crop in closely.
For Men
If you can, get your hair cut a few days before the photo session – but stick to your regular style and stylist. A fresh cut will look great in photos, but now is not the time to be trying out a new look or a new hairdresser!
Corporate Headshots
For studio business headshots, stick to solid colours and avoid busy patterns. A small pinstripe on a collared shirt is fine but stay away from busy paisleys or Hawaiian prints. At my studio, I can shoot primarily against white backdrop, so when planning your clothing, think about what colours might work best with this set-up. Greys and blues are really lovely if you want to go traditional. Jewel tones and other pops of colour can add a bit of personality. Just avoid a solid white shirt.
Branding or Casual Headshots
When choosing your clothing for a branding or casual headshot session, start by choosing pieces that match or complement the colours of your brand or website. Think about how you want to come across on your website or social media channels and dress to that – fun and approachable doesn’t work with a corporate suit and tie! Serious and educated doesn’t work with a vibrant Hawaiian shirt.
Layers and textures are great and can add interest and personality to your headshot – just make sure that the patterns aren’t too large or distracting. And make sure no logos are visible – this is a branding photo for YOU, not Nike!
Actor’s Headshots
In an actor’s headshot, it’s all about YOU. The focus will be on your face and your personality. Wear simple solid colours that complement your skin tone (jewel tones look great on almost everyone), and avoid busy patterns and logos at all costs. There’s no need to accessorize for men – a simple t-shirt often looks great! V-necks or crew necks are generally fine.
Eran Sudds is a Tsawwassen photographer who specializes in fun & natural sessions for you and your entire family. She is available for maternity, newborn, family portraits and headshots at locations in South Delta, or anywhere in the Lower Mainland. Contact her to book your session!
