What To Wear for a Headshots Photography Session
WHAT TO WEAR FOR A HEADSHOTS PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION:
Wearing a white shirt (Yes or No?)
It depends. While the colour white is a neutral colour, it’s not always truly neutral. People with pigmented skin tones contrast well with white as it brings out their skin tones. For folks with dark complexions, the contrast can be jarring. While the camera can expose for a white shirt, it does overly underexpose facial features and cast dark shadows. To avoid this, darker complexioned folks should choose a different neutral colour like beige, sky blue or khaki. We encourage layering up a base neutral colour with an additional outer shell. Blazers, ties or cardigans do well.
Layering up an outfit
Consider layering up with these items - sweater vests, blazers, suit vests, scarves, pocket squares, cardigans and jackets. Further adding a touch of personality, you can stand out by projecting your unique personal brand.
Plus point: layering has a slimming effect on camera.
Dress for the job you want, not for the job you have.
With the above said, it is also important to understand context. You should dress within your industry/ profession. E.g. A suit and tie conveys gravitas for a lawyer, doctor or realtor. If you are a software developer, a light jacket over a t-shirt wouldn’t be out of place. If you are a healthcare worker, a cardigan or dress conveys warmth and authenticity.
Do you know that the power of first impressions are often made in the first few seconds? People form opinions about your level of intelligence, socio-economic status, competency and likability.
What colours suit me best?
While you are familiar with your complexion, skin tones and favourite colours, you can ask a friend or partner for a second opinion. Still unsure? Bring along 2 options to your headshots photo session to ask our photographers. We are happy to give you a professional opinion.
Are there any colours to avoid?
Unless you’re a professional DJ, we recommend staying away from neon colours. They create unflattering colour casts.
Wear well fitting clothing
Without being loose or tight to the point of unflattering, clothing looks best when it’s cut to our body shape. No matter your shape or size, we are huge proponents in loving the body you have. (You do you!) Think about what you want to project. Do you want an employer to be know you for your professionalism and competence? God forbid you come across as a sloppy mess. When picking what to wear for your studio photography session, well-fitting clothes fits well.
Read Further: 11 Tips to Land a Job Interview with Your LinkedIn Profile Photo
Here’s What Not To Wear:
Don’t wear clothing with logos or images
Remember that your headshot is your personal brand. Hence, you should stay clear away from clothing with logos. Logos on clothes make you a walking billboard for the clothing company.
Don’t wear patterned clothing
As fun as patterns are, they can be a little much for a professional headshot. Unless you’re an artist or a tech startup founder, keep your patterns minimal. A patterned pocket square inside a suit jacket will do fine. Keep patterns small and unobtrusive.
Don’t wear casual clothes
If you are planning on landing that dream job on LinkedIn, avoid showing up to photograph with t-shirts, sportswear, hooded sweaters, and branded clothing. Unless your name is Bono. Bono can wear whatever he likes.
