How to prepare yourself for a professional headshot session
Choose a Style that Reflects your Personality & Industry
Pick out clothes that look good on you and make you feel good. Try them on and check them in front of a mirror beforehand. Are there any pulled places, such as near buttons? Is there any gap? Clothes that are either tight or too baggy can make you appear larger than you are.
Iron your clothes the night before your headshot session.
Women: Tones like green, blue, purple, and yellow are fantastic since they are universally appealing. Highly recommended are solid colours. Feel free to choose the tone that makes your eyes stand out. Avoid tones that match your skin.
Men: Preferred are solid colours for your shirt or jacket. Choose colours that complement or match your skin tone and/or eye colour. Avoid colours that are very similar to your skin colour.
Avoid: Women, Men: Small stripes or fine patterns/designs. Large, striking patterns, unless you're absolutely going for that particular look. Bring some clothes-cleaning brush/ roller.
If you are thinking of wearing stripes, bear in mind that vertical stripes will make you appear slimmer and horizontal stripes, wider.
Get your hair cut
Don’t get it just before the headshot session. Allow a week or two to pass between your headshot session and hair appointment. But make sure your hair is in the best condition before the photo shoot. If you are considering a professional blow-dry before the session, go for it. I don’t recommend new hairstyles just before the shoot. Bring your hair brush / comb, and mirror.
3. Women’s Skin and Make-up
Keep yourself hydrated a few days before. Avoid any harsh cosmetics that irritate your skin.
Try to keep your make-up natural. Apply foundation to balance out imperfections and skin tone, but don't apply it too heavily. While minor skin imperfections can be easily edited away, too much foundation will never allow skin to look naturally flawless. Small blemishes and spots are easy to deal with in post-edit. Don't worry about them.
The best makeup primers to avoid shiny skin on photos are those with the formula that's oil-free, non-comedogenic, and says “mattifying” or “shine control” on the label—these tend to work best for those with oilier complexions.
Mascara: apply carefully and evenly; make sure it's not too thick and that the lashes are separated.
Apply a natural colour to your cheeks and lips if you need to.
4. Men grooming
Pay some attention to your facial hair. Whether you choose to have a beard or a clean shave, make sure you look neat before you go into the shoot. Make sure that your skin is moisturised (face, neck, hands) a day or two before the shoot. Feel free to bring some wipes if your skin tends to shine. Avoid any harsh cosmetics or products that can irritate your skin. Minor skin blemishes are easy to edit afterwards.
5. Keep Jewellery Simple
And most important bring your smiles and best mood!
Looking forward to seeing you! Marcin
