A professional headshot is a powerful tool for making a great first impression. Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn profile, creating a personal brand, or preparing for a business presentation, the right headshot can communicate professionalism, approachability, and confidence.

To ensure you get the most out of your headshot session, preparation is key.

Here’s a guide on how to prepare for your professional headshot session to ensure you look and feel your best in front of the camera.

First - Choose the Right Outfit

Your outfit will have a big impact on how your headshot turns out, as well as how you feel in the outfit, which will show in your face. Make sure that what you wear, reflects your personal style and the professional image you want to project.

Here are some tips for selecting your best outfit:

Go for Solid Colours: Avoid busy patterns or overly bright colours that might distract from your face. Solid colours like navy, black, white, or soft pastels tend to work well, as they are timeless and professional.
Dress for Your Profession: Consider the industry you work in. If you’re in a creative field, you might opt for a more relaxed outfit, while corporate professionals should lean toward more formal attire like a suit or blazer.
Avoid Logos or Graphics: Clothes with visible logos or large graphics can draw attention away from your face. Opt for simple, clean clothing to keep the focus where it belongs.
Fit and Comfort: Make sure your clothes fit well and are comfortable. Ill-fitting clothing can make you feel self-conscious and impact your posture. Clothes that allow for easy movement and make you feel confident will result in a more natural photo.
Accessories: Where minimal or a set piece that represents your style and personality.
Location: If the headshot is taken on location, include the background or use a plain one. If the background is plain, wear clothes that match or contrast it so you stand out or the background can be easily removed for a transparent headshot.

Grooming and Personal Care

A headshot session captures the best version of you, so grooming is important, but make sure you still look like yourself. This way, the photos show what people will see when they meet you. Spending some extra time to prepare will help you look polished and confident.

Tips for Grooming:

Hair: Ensure your hair is clean, styled, and neatly groomed. If you normally get a haircut or trim before big events, consider doing the same for your headshot session.
Facial Hair: If you have facial hair, make sure it’s well-trimmed. A clean and sharp appearance will help you look your best.
Skin Care: Take care of your skin in the days leading up to the shoot. Moisturize to avoid dry skin, and make sure to cleanse your face before the session to avoid any shine. If you wear makeup, opt for a natural, polished look that enhances your features without being too heavy.
Nails: Clean, simple nails can also make a difference, especially if your hands are visible in the photo. Avoid bright, distracting colours that might detract from your face.
Eyelashes: Use the right type to enhance your vision; the wrong kind will cover your eyes and make it hard to see them in the picture.

Practice Your Posture and Expression

A great headshot is more than just your appearance, it’s about capturing your personality and confidence. To ensure you look approachable and professional, practice good posture and facial expressions.

Tips for Posture and Expression:

Stand or Sit Tall: Keep your shoulders back and your posture straight to exude confidence. Avoid slouching, as it can make you appear less engaged or confident.
Relax Your Body: Tension in your body will show in your photos, so take a moment to relax. Stand or sit comfortably and naturally to create an open, approachable stance.
Facial Expression: A friendly smile is often the best choice for a headshot. Practice a genuine smile in front of the mirror to find what feels natural for you. If you prefer a more serious or professional look, a soft, neutral expression can also work well.
Eyes: Your eyes can make a big difference in the tone of your headshot. A warm, direct gaze into the camera can create a strong connection with the viewer. Avoid looking down or away from the camera unless the shot specifically calls for it.

finally you will need to Relax and Be Yourself

Preparing for the session is important, but being yourself and enjoying the shoot is just as important. This helps me capture a headshot that shows the real you.

Tips for Relaxing During the Shoot:

Take Deep Breaths: If you feel nervous, take a few deep breaths before the session begins.
Have Fun: Don’t forget to enjoy this experience! A great headshot should capture your personality and leave you feeling proud of how you look. Smile, have fun with the process, and enjoy the moment.

Trust your photographer. My goal is to make you feel comfortable and understand what you need.

In Conclusion

A professional headshot is more than just a nice photo, it’s a reflection of your personality, professionalism, and confidence. By preparing thoughtfully with the right outfit, grooming, posture, and mindset, you’ll feel more at ease in front of the camera and get images that truly represent you.

Remember, the best headshots happen when you're relaxed, authentic, and supported. That’s why I guide every client through the process to ensure you feel confident and comfortable throughout the session.

Whether you need images for LinkedIn, your website, or personal branding, a well-prepared headshot session can make all the difference in how you show up online.

Ready to update your headshot and put your best face forward? Let’s make it happen.

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Everything You Need to Know to Get the Perfect Professional Headshot