Choosing What to Wear for Your Headshots: Dos and Don’ts

When it comes to creating captivating headshots, what you wear plays a crucial role. The attire you wear not only reflects your personal style but also communicates your professionalism and the image you want to portray. Whether you’re getting ready for corporate or business headshots, acting headshots, a modeling portfolio, or planning to update your professional headshots for LinkedIn or your resume, here are some effective dos and don’ts to consider when selecting your wardrobe for your headshots session.

Dos for headshots:

1. Dress for Your Industry: The attire you choose should be appropriate for your industry. A corporate professional might opt for a suit for their professional headshots, while someone in the creative field could go for a more casual yet polished look. Consider what’s standard in your line of work and aim to align with that.
2. Solid Colors Work Best: Solid colors work wonders in headshots because they draw attention to your face rather than your clothing. They also convey a sense of confidence and consistency. While it’s important to have an appealing wardrobe in your headshots, you want to avoid patterns that will distract from your face or your expression. Also, choose colors that complement your skin tone and eye color. Cool tones like blues and grays are often safe choices, but don’t be afraid to infuse a pop of color if it suits your personality.
3. Accessorize Thoughtfully: Accessories can add a touch of personality to your headshots, but they should be chosen carefully. A simple necklace, tie, or pair of earrings can enhance your overall look without overpowering it. Avoid overly flashy or distracting accessories. Be sure to remove any accessories that don’t compliment your outfit, like any hair scrunchies on your wrists or possibly your Apple watch.
4. Keep It Timeless: Remember, headshots are often used for an extended period. Choose clothing styles that won’t quickly become dated. Classic, well-fitting pieces tend to stand the test of time and won’t make your headshot look outdated in a few years. Classic styles like well-fitted suits, dress shirts, blouses, and tailored dresses exude a sense of professionalism. They also age well, ensuring your headshot remains relevant for years. If you want a trendier, more modern headshot, opt for a couple headshots with multiple looks – one look that is more timeless and another that is more trendy and modern. We offer a professional headshots package that allows for multiple outfits and looks.
5. Comfort is Key: You want to feel confident and at ease during your headshot session. Choose clothing that makes you feel comfortable and that you can move in easily. Discomfort will show in your expressions, so prioritize comfort alongside style.
6. Consider Your Background: Choose outfit colors that contrast enough from your background to allow you to stand out in your headshot. If you’re unsure yet about which background color to use for your professional headshots, learn more about choosing a headshot background here.

Don’ts for Headshots:

1. Avoid Busy Patterns: Busy patterns, intricate designs, and large logos can distract from your face and the message you want to convey. Stick to simpler patterns or solid colors that let your features shine.
2. Avoid Ill-Fitting Attire: Clothing that’s too tight, too loose, or simply doesn’t fit well can create an unflattering look in your headshots. Properly fitted clothing enhances your features and makes you appear polished.
3. Minimize Extreme Trends: While it’s okay to show some personal style, it’s best to avoid extreme fashion trends that might not stand the test of time. What’s fashionable today might not be tomorrow, and you want your headshots to be relevant for years to come.

Remember, your headshot is often the first impression people will have of you, whether it’s on LinkedIn, a company website, or a portfolio. The right wardrobe choice can help convey your professionalism, personality, and style in a single image. By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll be well on your way to selecting the perfect outfit for your professional headshots session.

Located in Hyde Park and minutes from downtown Tampa, we special in providing modern Tampa headshots to business professionals and corporate teams. Whether you’re a professional in Tampa seeking to attract potential employers, or you’re an entrepreneur in need of professional headshots to distinguish your personal brand, we have Tampa headshots packages to fit your professional needs.