What to Wear for Your Professional Headshot
A practical guide to presenting yourself with authority, credibility, and confidence on camera.
Your headshot is often the first impression a client or colleague forms of you. The goal isn't to look fashionable: it's to look trustworthy, competent, and approachable. These guidelines will help you make the most of your session.
Suits & Jackets
A well-tailored suit communicates attention to detail. Have your jacket pressed and fitted before the session: wrinkles and poor fit read poorly on camera.
Navy, charcoal, and dark grey are the gold standard. They photograph cleanly, convey authority, and suit almost every complexion.
A blazer, structured suit jacket, or conservative dress works well. A coordinated jacket-and-blouse combination photographs especially cleanly.
Subtle pinstripes are fine, but only if the stripes look nearly invisible from a few feet away. If the fabric seems to shimmer or "vibrate" when you hold it at arm's length, skip it: tight stripes can create a wavy interference effect on screen. When in doubt, go solid.
Color Palette
Stick to colors that complement your skin tone and keep the focus on your face. These hues consistently perform well in professional photography:
These are reliable starting points, not a strict palette. Any color that complements your complexion and reads as professional can work. The key is avoiding anything so saturated or bright that it pulls focus from your face.
Avoid neon, very bright red, and pure white blazers: they can create harsh reflections or colour casts under studio lighting. Bright white shirts under a darker jacket are perfectly fine.
Shirts & Blouses
- Crisp, well-ironed dress shirt, blouse, or collared shirt
- Classic white or light blue as a safe default
- Jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, plum) for a polished pop of color
- Subtle texture like fine poplin or silk
- V-necks and scoop necks that frame the face well
- Large logos or graphic prints
- Loud stripes or clashing patterns
- Sheer fabrics without a layer underneath
- Sleeveless tops (unless with a blazer)
- Turtlenecks that crowd the face and neck
Ties & Accessories
A classic silk tie in a solid or subtle pattern grounds the look. Width should be proportional to your lapel. Avoid novelty or cartoon ties.
Keep it simple: small earrings, a single necklace, or a delicate bracelet. Avoid anything that catches light in a distracting way.
Optional, but a neatly folded white or subtle pocket square can add polish without distraction.
Wear what you wear every day: this is your professional image. If your frames have strong glare, ask your photographer about anti-reflective positioning.
Grooming & Final Prep
- Get a haircut 1–2 weeks before (not the day before)
- Use matte makeup or powder to reduce shine
- Bring 2–3 outfit options to the session
- Steam or press everything the night before
- Dramatic new hairstyles right before the shoot
- Heavy cologne or perfume (studio comfort)
- Trying a completely new makeup look on the day
The best headshot looks like you on your best day: not a costume. The goal is to look polished, approachable, and exactly like someone a client would want to trust.