Looking Your Best
The focus of a good head shot is your face and natural expression. Wearing clothes that fit, complement, and don’t overpower your face or body are part of the prep process.
SOLIDS: Keep things simple. Solids are best while busy graphics and logos can be distracting.
COLOR: I love to see folks in colors. Consider colors that match your eye color, hair color or hues that are complementary to your skin tone. I recommend staying away from white.
FORM FITTED: Clothing that is tailored to your body is the most flattering thing you can do to look thin. The more definition created, the more we’ll see your shape. Blousy, bulky clothing can make you look wider than you are.
NECKLINE: There are also a variety of necklines to consider when planning your wardrobe choices (see graphic below). I have a Pinterest page that includes a board for men and a board for women with lots of ideas for wardrobe preparation.
MAKEUP: I highly recommend makeup for head shots. It not only enhances your features or brings pop to your look, it makes you feel great before your shoot. Stay away from shimmery eyeshadows or powders, and foundation that does not match your skin tone.
NAILS: I often like to include hands in my shots. Give some love to your hands and nails before your shoot. If you like getting your nails painted consider going with a natural color or no color at all.
SLEEP AND HYDRATION: Drink lots of water to keep yourself hydrated and get plenty of sleep. Both of these activities are important for everyday well-being but especially so when you want to look your best in photos.
WOMEN
For women in particular, full-length sleeves or 3/4 length sleeves work well. If you’re going for a more executive look, staying away from bare arms is suggested. However, if you’re looking to show off your arms or want a more relaxed look, tank tops or short sleeve shirts are great. Tailored tops and blouses or dresses are great and can be layered with jackets or scarves. If you wear a jacket consider a collarless top underneath for a sleeker look.
Want to go more casual? Sweater sets, casual jackets with light tops, or relaxed button-down blouses are great starters. If you want super casual, jeans and a well-fitted t-shirt can work well.
image source: leadersinheels
MEN
Button-down shirts for men work well and can be paired with suit jackets and a tie. Shirts with a bit of color versus white, or a very subtle pattern, are great. Choose a suit that doesn’t bunch up when you button it or if you sit down, and a shirt and tie that match each other and the suit.
Clothing with really tight grids or a small herringbone pattern can have a moiré pattern effect on camera so stay away from tight grid-like patterns. Thin stripes that are a little further apart are okay. Ties look best when the tone lands between the suit and the shirt so a light shirt, dark suit and a tie in a shade somewhere in between is great. Try to stay away from reflective, shiny ties.
Want to go more casual? Polo shirts or just a button-down shirt works. Adding a pull-over sweater or vest is another way to vary up your look.
EYE GLASSES THAT TRANSITION
If your glasses transition in sunlight or bright light, or your lenses take on a lot of glare, consider bringing a second pair of glasses if you have them. Any additional concerns, please let us know before your shoot.
JEWELRY
Again, keep it simple. The focus is on your face. Large, clunky jewelry can be distracting and date your image. Understated pieces will complement your wardrobe without taking away from the real focus: YOU!
CLOTHES PREPARATION
Make sure clothes are clean and wrinkle-free. Also, pay attention to the way your clothing fits. Bulky clothing can appear rumpled or make you look larger than you are. I often suggest more tailored, fitted pieces for both men and women. Plan to try on your clothes a week prior to your shoot so you know whether things need to be pressed, cleaned, or you need something else that is a better fit or style for you.
MAKEUP AND GROOMING
I highly recommend makeup for head shots. It enhances your features and can smooth out blemishes or imperfections. Stay away from shimmery eyeshadows or powders, and foundation that does not match your skin tone. Keep yourself hydrated and get plenty of sleep.
