Studio Guide for a Headshot

Tips for a Studio Headshot

Headshot-Edmonds- Studio

Over the last few years, athleisure wear and lounge clothing has grown in popularity, but the trends for studio headshots have remained the same. When planning for your headshot, you’ll want to keep the comfy clothes on the hanger and instead, reach for the back of the closet and pull out the jackets, blouses and button-up shirts.

Planning your outfit can be the most stressful part of a photo shoot. I created this guide to help make this process easier because over the years, I’ve noticed people tend to overthink their look. If you are looking for a corporate headshot, this is for you.

Keep in mind that you don’t want to get in front of the camera looking like your weekend self; the idea isn’t to capture your personality in a headshot photo. Don’t get me wrong — I love capturing a person’s true personality in photos, but headshots aren’t those images. We will be working toward showing you as a professional — and a dedicated one at that.

Here are things to avoid for your headshot photo:

Headshot

  • Clothing that is shiny or sparkly

  • Loungewear

  • Logos, pictures or wording on your clothing

  • Accessories

  • Patterns or prints

  • Clothing that is too dressy

  • Clothing that is out of date or too small

  • Ties with a patterns

    The main focus for headshot photo outfits is to choose clothing or accessories that won’t draw the viewer’s attention from the subject’s eyes.

    Women:

    With that long list of things to avoid, you probably are wondering what’s left to wear for your photoshoot. The lower half doesn’t matter as much, but still come prepared by wearing black on the bottom. Don’t fuss about shoes for this photo session; you are off the hook there. The tops are where you want to stand out as professional and understated. A solid-colored blouse without ruffles is a great option, as is a tight-knit sweater. Make sure all undergarments are hidden and fit well. Feel free to bring a blazer; it can give another look and, in my studio, doesn’t count as an additional outfit. Never hesitate to send an image of your clothing choices so your photographer can guide you.

    Men:

    Your photo will be focused on the upper torso, but still consider slacks and a belt because it’s possible that just a small part of your waist will be shown. No need to worry about dress shoes. If you are considering a blazer you haven’t worn in a while, be sure to try it on and make sure it still fits well. I’m often asked if men should wear a tie. If you are employed, it’s best to check with your employer on things like ties and any other requirements. If this image is for a profile or PowerPoint, the recent trend is ties for specific professions, so feel free to bring a tie. (Do you know how to tie it? My skills are a bit rusty.) If you opt for a tie, it should be a solid color with a subtle design. In general, when it comes to fit, it’s best to err on the side of wearing something slightly big than too small. It’s important to try on all clothing prior to your session. Feel free to send images to your photographer for feedback and planning purposes.

Angie Langford