This prep guide is intended to help you feel ready for your upcoming headshot photo session. While, yes, technically we will be taking headshots, my goal is ultimately make portraits of you that show who you are in a way that feels fun and relaxed rather than stuffy and stressful.
Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to help you prepare. As always, please reach out if you have any questions or need support in any way!
Do…
….show up as yourself in the moment. We’ll be taking pictures of you looking professional, but I have zero expectations of you acting in any particular way in front of me. In other words, there’s no need to perform!
…wear something you are comfortable in that is on the nicer end of what you would typically wear to work. For some, that is a suit and tie, for others, that may be a hoodie. Stay true to you!
…lean toward wearing solid colors with texture or subtle pattern. If wearing bright, bold patterns is a big part of your self expression, definitely include them! Otherwise, save those for another day and keep clothing simple. If you’re feeling particularly drawn to wearing white, feel free, though color (even other neutrals) often look better in photos.
…iron, steam, and/or generally make sure your clothing is in good condition. A stray bit of lint is easy to edit out, but wrinkles and pilling don’t cover up well in editing.
…communicate with me! If there is a certain feel you want to communicate with your headshots (serious, silly, approachable, etc) I want to know. If something doesn’t feel right I want to know.
Don’t…
…worry about feeling awkward in front of the camera. Very nearly everyone I photograph does initially. It’s totally normal! It’s my job to help you feel relaxed and look natural on camera.
…wear pinstripes or neon colors. The camera can have a hard time “seeing” those and they can come out really strange.
…go overboard on makeup or hair style. If you typically wear makeup, great! If not, no need to start now. And wear your hair in a style that (yes, I’m saying it again) you’re comfortable in and feels true to you.
