7 Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Headshot Photography Session

Preparing for your professional headshot photo session

Well, it's halfway through 2023 and the internet still reigns supreme. It makes sense that having high quality, current headshots is vital to your career. And it really doesn’t matter what your job is, either! It used to be that real estate agents and corporate finance leaders were the only ones required to have such images taken, but today everyone benefits from improving their online presence.

Headshot photos allow you to put your best face forward — literally! Whether you’ve already got a headshot session booked or you’re contemplating having one done, these guidelines will help you prepare more adequately.

Wear Clothing That’s Flattering, Modest, and Neutral

There’s a time and a place for that leopard print top or crazy tie, but your headshots will usually require a different aesthetic. We recommend neutral, solid-colored, modest articles of clothing that you feel comfortable in and that are flattering to your complexion and features. Clothing should also be clean and freshly pressed. Wrinkles clothing takes hours of extra Photoshop work that can get costly!

Bring a Second Outfit

You’ll likely want to have some variety in choice when choosing your favorite headshot images, so we recommend bringing a second, and even third outfit to the session.

Keep Accessories to a Minimum

This is a headshot, so we don’t want to detract from your face. Too much jewelry can lead the eye elsewhere, so it’s best to stick to small and modest pieces if you choose to wear any accessories at all.

Have Your Hair/Makeup Done Professionally

If you were looking for an excuse to get a haircut, blowout, or professional makeup, this is it! Not only does handing that responsibility off to someone else reduce your burden on picture day, but it ensures that you look and feel incredible. (Just a note: light retouching is standard in all of our headshot images. Don’t cake on the concealer over a blemish, we'll take care of that.)

Make Sure Hair is Out of Your Face

This goes along with the last point, but to ensure we get a good shot you’ll want to keep hair out of your face. If you have bangs they should be trimmed, and if you have long hair that tends to get in the way, you may want to clip some of it back or tuck it behind your ears.

Be Sure to Shave the Shadow

Guys, be sure to remove the 5 o'clock shadow the morning of your photography appointment. We promise it's going to make your skin look clearer and you'll look much more professional when you ditch the stubble.

Determine the Ideal Backdrop

Many clients prefer to have their images taken at either their business location, home office, or against a neutral background at our Medford photography studio. Together we can help determine the best place to do your headshots, just be sure to let us know what kind of look you’re going for!

Ready to book your headshot photo shoot? Go ahead and get in touch with us to book now!