The best clothes to wear for portrait headshots - preparing for a headshot session

Published on Sun Jan 11, 2026 by David J Colbran

Preparing for your Headshot Session photo shoot

A professional headshot is one of the most valuable visual assets you can invest in - whether you’re refreshing your LinkedIn profile, launching a new look on Spotlight, updating your company website, or strengthening your personal brand. Preparing properly ensures you look confident, polished, and like the best version of yourself.

These are my tips on the best clothes to wear for business people, professional actors, actresses, musicians, singers, writers and presenters who are getting portraits made. While I don't claim to be a fashion expert, I have bags of experience knowing what works well in an image. And, equally as important, what doesn't.

I will suggest a range of different backgrounds for the shoot - from plain white backdrops to alternative solid colours. The key here is to avoid similar colours, in order to avoid clothing merging or blending into the background. I'm sure we've all seen that white shirt against a white background photo, done in a high-key style, making the person look like a ghost!

Solid coloured clothes are my recommendation, in particular creams and dark blues. I would avoid any clothes that have patterns, logos or motifs - they tend to be too busy, distracting and can date an image very quickly. Matching a colour to the colour of your eyes is very effective tip when selecting colours.

Bring three or four tops, with various colours and also various necklines to the shoot. I would recommend for both men and women at least one shirt with a collar. And a tie and jacket for a more formal look. Also things like scarfs and hats can make interesting accessories to your look for some of the photos but obviously not on every single photo. Also schedule that hair cut a week prior to the shoot - it gives it a little time to settle - a lot of gents make the mistake of the day before and it can look a little severe if short. 

I will provide black and white versions of all final images - which some people prefer. And also a variety of crops if required - i.e. close up traditional head and shoulders and US style top-half body shots.

Also I always like to try and use something a little different as a background - out of focus walls, or trees or some plants. Having variations are great value. If you are planning for a Spotlight refresh this can massively increase your chances of getting noticed and demonstrations that you have a flexible look. It could be the key that lands you that much needed breakthrough opportunity.

I offer a value for investment portrait service. By running a mobile setup rather than a traditional studio, I can keep expenses low and offer great value.

Finally, I guess the best bit of advice is to look natural. For example a casting professional wants to see the 'real' you. A potential new business customer seeks authenticity, not some AI plastic fake representation. So avoid too much make-up and don't ask me to airbrush out any wrinkles. Trust me to create some brilliant, honest portraits - give me a call on 07810321634 - I am happy to meet up for coffee and talk over ideas for your shoot and sketch out some preparations.

So here is my simple, step-by-step guide to help you get ready for your headshot session and make the most of your time in front of the camera.

A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plan Your Wardrobe in Advance

What you wear has a huge impact on your final images, so give it some thought ahead of your session.

Choose Clothes That Reflect Your Role

• Opt for outfits that match your profession, industry, and personality.
• For corporate roles, think well-fitted shirts, blouses, jackets, and subtle colours.
• For creatives, more relaxed and expressive clothing can work well.

Stick to Simple, Flattering Pieces

• Solid colours photograph best.
• Avoid busy patterns, large logos, or anything overly shiny.
• Bring a couple of options so you can change if needed.

2. Grooming: The Fine Details Matter

Hair

• Have your hair styled as you normally would for a professional day.
• Avoid trying something dramatically new right before the session.
• Bring a brush, comb, or styling product for quick touch-ups.

Makeup

• Aim for natural-looking makeup that enhances rather than disguises.
• Powder helps reduce shine, which is especially important under studio lighting.
• Men may benefit from a light mattifying product as well.

Skin Prep

• Stay hydrated the day before and avoid alcohol if possible—your skin will thank you.
• A gentle exfoliation and moisturising routine the night before can make a real difference.

3. Rest and Hydrate

It sounds simple, but it’s essential.

• Get a good night’s sleep beforehand—tired eyes always show.
• Drink plenty of water in the 24 hours leading up to the shoot.
• Avoid salty foods, which can cause puffiness.

4. Think About the Look You Want

Before the session, spend a few minutes considering the style you prefer:

• Clean and corporate?
• Relaxed and friendly?
• Creative and expressive?

Sharing reference images with me can really help shape the shoot and ensure you achieve the look you’re aiming for.

5. Practice Your Expression

As your photographer, I will guide you, but a little practice helps:

• Try looking in the mirror and experiment with subtle smiles, confident serious expressions, and relaxed neutral looks.
• Think about posture—lift through your spine, relax your shoulders, and slightly push your chin forward to define your jawline.

These tiny adjustments make a big difference in the final images.

6. On the Day: Arrive Ready and Relaxed

Give yourself enough time to get to the session without rushing.

• Bring everything freshly pressed and organised.
• If it’s an on-location portable studio setup, ensure there’s a suitable space with enough room and we can turn off overhead lights easily
• Don’t stress, I know that is easy to say - the best photos come when you’re comfortable and confident.

7. Trust Your Photographer

A good photographer will guide you through lighting, angles, posing, and expression. I will help refine your look and ensure you appear natural and confident. Don’t worry about minor details—professional post-processing can take care of temporary blemishes, teeth whitening, stray hairs, or small imperfections.

Need a new professional portraits for your business?

Looking for a Liverpool based portrait photographer who loves making people relaxed and at ease in front of the camera. Trust my experience and expertise and give me a call on 07810321634 or email david@djcdesign.co.uk

Author: David J Colbran