Why are professional headshots essential? Your image online is often the first impression someone has of you before they even meet you. Follow these tips to make sure you look your best next time you take your portraits. Being mindful of what you’ll use your photos for will help you decide how formal to be.
“A man should look as if he has bought his clothes with intelligence, put them on with care and then forgotten all about them." -- Hardy Amies
Tips on what to wear:
Classic and formal over trendy and casual. Black, navy, and grey suits are always great options. Looking more formal is always better than looking too casual. Depending on your career, a nice polo might work for you.
Fit is everything. Pick a shirt that fits great and make sure to get your suit tailored. Around the neck and the shoulders are great areas to look at if something fits right.
Always bring a blazer or jacket. Even if you don’t wear a tie, having something over your shirt will add more elegance. You can always take it off and get pictures without it.
Details matter. Make sure your tie is tied well, your shirt is ironed, and that you are well groomed. A fresh haircut and a trimmed beard or clean shave perfect your look.
Tips on what NOT to wear:
Avoid extremely bright/vibrant colors. You lose a lot of detail with extremely bright and vibrant colors if you plan on getting your photos printed. A subtle red tie will work fine.
Avoid busy patterns or busy stripes. When choosing a pattern for your shirt or tie, find something that is more subtle, has monochromatic colors, and isn’t very contrasty. Stripes that are very similar in color or have very thin lines work fine.
Avoid very loose or very tight clothing that doesn't fit well. Having a nice, fitted shirt and a jacket is very important. If you can, invest in getting your suit tailored.
If you find something that works for you, but conflicts with the advice above, then you should go for it. It’s important that you feel confident in whatever you choose to wear. Communicate with your photographer about what your photos will be used for and what your expectations are. It is helpful to show examples of what you are looking for In the end, it's about teamwork between you and the photographer to create professional headshots that puts your best foot forward.