How to Prepare for a Headshot Session: A Step-by-Step Guide
A professional headshot is more than just a picture—it’s a representation of your personal brand, professionalism, and personality. Whether you’re preparing for your first headshot session or refreshing your image, taking the time to prepare will ensure you get a photo you’re proud to share.
For entrepreneurs, business professionals, actors, and creatives alike, a headshot serves as a visual calling card that can open doors to new opportunities. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for a headshot session and make the most of your time in front of the camera.
1. Define Your Purpose and Style
Before your session, think about where you’ll use your headshot and what message you want it to convey. Are you aiming for a polished, corporate look for LinkedIn? A friendly, approachable style for your business website? Or perhaps a dramatic and expressive vibe for acting auditions?
Actors and creatives: Your headshot is often your first introduction to casting directors, agencies, or collaborators. Ensure your look reflects your range and personality. For example, actors may want a mix of serious and smiling expressions, while creatives might lean toward dynamic and imaginative styling.
Communicate your goals with your photographer so they can tailor the shoot to your vision.
2. Choose Your Outfits Wisely
Your wardrobe plays a huge role in how your headshot turns out. Keep these tips in mind:
Stick to simple, solid colors: Bold patterns or logos can be distracting. Instead, opt for neutral or jewel tones that complement your skin tone.
Reflect your industry: Business professionals might choose blazers or formal attire, while actors should focus on wardrobe pieces that highlight their personality and versatility, like neutral tops or subtle layers. Creatives may want to incorporate unique textures or bold accessories that reflect their artistic style.
Bring options: Pack two to three outfits so you have variety during the session. Actors and creatives should aim for diverse looks to match different roles or branding needs.
3. Prepare Your Skin and Hair
To look and feel your best on camera, spend a little time prepping your skin and hair:
Hydrate your skin: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your session and moisturize for a healthy glow.
Keep makeup natural: Actors and creatives, especially, should opt for makeup that enhances your natural features without being too heavy—it allows casting directors to see the real you.
Plan haircuts or grooming: Schedule haircuts at least a week before the session to allow time for adjustments.
For men: If you have facial hair, groom it neatly. Actors might bring a razor to switch between looks if needed.
4. Get Plenty of Rest
A good night’s sleep will ensure you’re refreshed and energized for your session. Being well-rested helps reduce under-eye circles and enhances your natural glow, ensuring you look your best for your business portraits, acting headshots, or creative branding images.
5. Practice Your Expression
A natural, confident expression can make all the difference in your headshot. Practice in front of a mirror to find your best smile, serious look, or relaxed gaze.
Actors: Work on a variety of expressions to showcase your range—playful, intense, approachable, or anything in between. Creatives: Let your personality shine through, whether that’s bold and dynamic or calm and reflective.
If you’re unsure how to pose, your photographer will guide you during the session to ensure your personality shines through.
6. Bring the Right Accessories
Keep your look clean and uncluttered with these tips:
Simple jewelry: Avoid flashy or oversized pieces that might steal the spotlight.
Glasses: If you wear glasses, clean them thoroughly to avoid glare. Consider bringing frames with non-reflective lenses if possible.
Props (for creatives): Creatives may consider subtle props or wardrobe elements that reflect their art or craft—just be sure they don’t overpower the shot.
7. Communicate With Your Photographer
Your photographer is there to make you look your best, so don’t hesitate to share your preferences or concerns. Let them know about your preferred angles, any insecurities you have, or the specific vibe you want to achieve.
Actors: Share your portfolio needs, such as commercial, theatrical, or character-specific looks. Creatives: Discuss how your headshot will reflect your artistic identity or be used in promotional materials.
A professional headshot photographer will also guide you on posing, lighting, and expressions to ensure your headshot aligns with your goals.
8. Arrive Early and Relax
Give yourself plenty of time to get to the studio so you can settle in and feel at ease. Relaxation is key to looking natural and confident in your photos. If you’re feeling nervous, take a few deep breaths or play some music to get into the right mindset.
9. Trust the Process
A professional photographer has the skills and experience to make you look your best. Trust their direction and enjoy the session—it’s an opportunity to showcase your unique personality, professionalism, or creativity.
10. Review and Choose Your Photos Carefully
After the session, you’ll have the chance to review your photos and select your favorites. Take your time and choose images that align with your goals and reflect your true self.
Actors: Select shots that capture a range of emotions and versatility. Creatives: Look for headshots that feel authentic to your personal style or brand.
Invest in Preparation for a Flawless Headshot
Preparing for a headshot session ensures that your photos are not only stunning but also authentic to who you are. Whether you’re a business professional, actor, or creative, following these tips will help you walk away with headshots that you’re proud to share across your platforms.
Ready to schedule your session? Contact us today, and let’s create headshots that capture your best self!
