As a Reno headshot photographer, I often get asked “what should I wear for my professional headshots?” So I am here to help with a list of do’s and don’t with wardrobe tips and more for your Reno headshot photography session.

Headshot Photoshoot Tips

DO think about how you will be using your headshot when you make your styling decisions. Will you be including your headshot alongside many others for speaking engagements? Does it need to stand out, or fit in? Does your company have specific requirements for your headshot? Know the answers to these types of questions when you are getting your wardrobe ready!

DO wear something that comfortably expresses your personality while still maintaining the necessary level of professionalism in your specific field or industry.

DON’T forget about shoes, hair and accessories. Despite the fact that these are called HEADshots, you could potentially be photographed from head to toe! Speaking to females here – make sure your nail polish isn’t chipping (on fingers AND toes if you are wearing shoes that show them)! That’s something that’s VERY difficult to photoshop (and often times impossible), so don’t let it ruin your favorite headshots.

DO buy a new outfit if you wish, but be sure to “test” the outfit beforehand so you know whether or not it’s truly comfortable in any position! You should be able to comfortably sit down in your outfit. You don’t want all of your photos to be stiff upright standing shots. Comfort is key. If you don’t feel comfortable, you won’t look comfortable.

DON’T expect your transition lenses in  your glasses to be clear outdoors – they are sunglasses outdoors! Consider wearing contacts, or put your glasses away for your session.

DON’T wear baseball caps or other hats unless it is part of your persona (and acceptable in your headshots) – they will create harsh shadows over your forehead & eyes. Part of what makes a great portrait of you is seeing your eyes!

DO consider the time of year and location of your shoot. If you’re getting your outdoor headshots done in the fall, think of colors that compliment orange, yellow and red. If choosing springtime, think about wearing pastels. However – since these are your professional headshots, again make sure that the colors you choose compliment the level of professionalism you are trying to convey. For headshots, I tend to love jewel-toned colors any time of year (deep purple, emerald green, royal blue etc) and pastels in the spring.

DON’T wear all black. Unless you really want to – your style is up to you, of course! But black is a very common color for headshots, and you typically want your headshot to stand out and show your individuality.

DON’T wear small patterns (checkerboard/ houndstooth etc), because they don’t photograph or print well. Neither do large graphics, thin straps, extremely bright colors (especially red, pink and neon shades).

DO rely on a professional makeup artist & hairstylist to highlight your beauty. If you’ve booked my premier headshot package WITH hair & makeup styling, I will coordinate the services with the artists.

DO visit Pinterest and search headshot images to get outfit ideas. If getting hair & makeup done, provide your artist with style inspiration! Also make sure to consider how “done up” you wish to be in your headshots. Make sure to convey all those details to your artist so you get the look and style you want!

That’s it! All my do’s and don’ts for your headshot portrait session look. I hope this article helps prepare you for your session and that you LOVE your new headshots. Below are some examples of headshot portraits – maybe some of them will inspire your look!