For a business headshot, choose an outfit that aligns with your industry, personal brand or the message you want to convey. Your clothing choices can either elevate your headshot or distract from the image you’re trying to project. Whether you need a headshot for your LinkedIn profile or business website, the right outfit makes a significant impact.

Natalie Hamilton Photography provides professional photography for businesses and individuals at her on-location studio in Colorado Springs, CO, and some surrounding areas. In this guide, we’ll break down what to wear for a headshot so you look polished, professional and confident.

What to Wear for a Professional Headshot

Neutral tones such as black, gray, white, navy or beige are always safe and versatile options for headshots. These colors complement various skin tones and look professional in almost any setting. While bold colors and patterns can be distracting, don’t be afraid to introduce a pop of color, especially if it aligns with your personal brand.

Men and women can follow many of the same guidelines for their headshots, but some aspects of dressing and styling differ:

  • Headshot tips for women: Choose a color or style that doesn’t show your bra or straps — especially since studio lighting is bright. Spaghetti straps and strapless tops are another no-go for professional photos.
  • Professional styling for men: Proper grooming is key to looking polished in your headshot, so style your hair neatly to reflect how you usually present yourself. Keep facial hair trimmed and well-groomed for a clean look. Try to avoid wearing an undershirt, as it can be distracting in a formal headshot, and choose a shorter tie over a longer one.

Finally, project a neat, organized image with freshly pressed or wrinkle-resistant clothing. If you discover a few creases during your session, we can retouch images to remove them.

Consider Layers

Adding layers to your outfit brings dimension and visual interest to your headshot without being overly distracting. For example:

  • Blazers: A well-fitted blazer instantly gives off a business look and adds structure to your silhouette. Generally, wearing formal clothing contributes to a feeling of power, which impacts your posture and presence in your headshots. Keep lighter colors underneath and darker ones over the top when wearing a blazer or suit jacket.
  • Scarves: For personal branding or creative headshots, a scarf can add texture or color to your image — it can also soften the feel of your image. You can add many types of accessories — such as jewelry — to bring some of your personality into your photo. Keep in mind that accessories should never steal the spotlight.
  • Tie or no tie: A tie adds professionalism to corporate or business headshots. Going without a tie creates a more relaxed and approachable look for creative files or personal branding.

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Focus on Fit and Comfort

One of the most important things to remember when choosing what to wear for headshots is comfort. If you’re uncomfortable in your outfit, it will show in your expression and posture. Make sure your clothing fits well and allows you to move freely during the photoshoot.

Tight or ill-fitting clothes can bunch up or create awkward lines in photos. Conversely, clothing that’s too loose may look sloppy or make you appear smaller on camera. Aim for clothing tailored to your body shape without being too restrictive. Try on your chosen outfit a few days before the shoot to ensure you feel confident wearing it.

Know the Purpose of Your Headshot

Different professions and industries may call for various styles of dress. Think about the following:

  • Corporate or business headshots: Dress for the job you want, or consider what your boss expects you to wear.
  • Creative fields: If you’re in a more creative profession, such as acting, photography or design, you may have more flexibility. You can still look professional but opt for a more relaxed or artistic style.
  • Personal branding: For headshots used on personal websites, blogs or social media, you can strike a balance between professional and casual.

Make a Great First Impression With Natalie Hamilton Photography

When choosing what to wear for a professional headshot, keep it simple, comfortable and professional, and don’t blend in with the background. Let your clothing complement your personality and brand. We can discuss your style and suggest what to wear — bring multiple outfits if you want options.

Contact NH Photography Studio to schedule a session today and experience a true artist.