Most people book a headshot and then spend the night before staring at their closet. Good news: the best headshot outfits are simple. Here is exactly what I tell every client before a headshot session in Orlando.
Start with where the photo will live
A headshot for a law firm website and a headshot for an acting submission are not the same photo. Before you pick an outfit, think about who will see it.
- Corporate and legal: a blazer or suit jacket in a solid color. Navy, charcoal and black are always safe.
- Real estate and sales: approachable but polished. A blazer over a simple top, or a crisp shirt without a jacket.
- Healthcare: your white coat or scrubs work, but bring a second look without them for LinkedIn.
- Creatives and founders: you have more room. A great sweater or a simple tee can say more about you than a suit.
- Actors: keep it simple and true to the roles you go out for. More on that in my guide to actor headshots in Orlando.
Colors that work on camera
Solid colors beat patterns almost every time. Small checks, thin stripes and busy prints can flicker on screens and pull attention away from your face.
- Jewel tones like navy, emerald, burgundy and deep blue look great on almost everyone.
- Neutrals like gray, camel and soft white are classic, just make sure they don't match your skin tone too closely.
- Black works well, especially with a lighter backdrop.
- Avoid neon and very bright white if it's the only thing you're wearing. Bright white can lose detail.
Fit matters more than brand
A jacket that fits well looks expensive on camera. One that's too big looks borrowed. Check the shoulders and the sleeves. Steam or press everything the night before, because wrinkles show up more in photos than in a mirror.
Necklines and details
- Collars and structured necklines frame your face nicely.
- Keep jewelry simple. One statement piece is great; several compete with each other.
- If you wear glasses every day, wear them. I adjust the lights to keep reflections off the lenses.
Bring options
Bring two or three tops or jackets. We'll pick the strongest one together in the first few minutes, and if your session includes more than one look, we'll use the rest. Hang them on hangers, don't fold them.
Hair, makeup and grooming
Get a haircut about a week before, not the day before, so it has time to settle. Professional hair and makeup can be added to any session, and it makes a real difference under lights. For a natural look, a little powder to cut shine is enough.
The day of the shoot
Drink water, get some sleep and arrive a few minutes early. Then relax. You don't need to know how to pose. I direct every frame, from how to angle your shoulders to what to do with your hands, until we get the version of you people recognize.
Ready to plan yours? Book a free strategy call and I'll help you pick the right looks for where your photos will be used.