What to Wear for Headshots & Branding Photography

It’s the million dollar question and the most stressful part of your photoshoot – what do I wear for my headshots? Suddenly, you hate everything you own, and panic sets in. The right clothing really does make or break your final images, but chances are you have exactly what you need in your closet right now. The right clothing enhances your features, reflects your personality, and helps you look polished and confident, without distracting from your face.

Planning for a branding photoshoot? If so, you will want to take branding colors into consideration. While you do not need to dress in matching colors, you want your clothing to coordinate well with your website. If planning for a team headshot day in Raleigh, visit this page for details.

Choosing the right colors for photography

While fit and style are important, none of those things matter if the color is completely wrong for your skin tone. Now, I cannot tell you what will look best on you specifically, but I can give you some general guidelines for what colors look best on camera.

• Jewel tones add vibrancy without overpowering skin tones and work well on most people.
• Rich, muted tones (think: teal, burgundy, eggplant, navy, forest green) are universally flattering.
• Earth tones (warm browns, soft olives, camel, rust) work beautifully on camera and those with warm skin tones.
• Bold colors can work well as a pop of when paired with neutrals.
• Neutral colors (Camel, cream, & chocolate brown are considered “universal” neutrals) but avoid colors close to your skin tone.
• Tone on tone looks can be very chic, particularly with neutrals.
• Solids are best. They keep the focus on you and not your clothes. If wearing a medium sized pattern, consider wearing it under a jacket, or adding it as a second look. Avoid large or small prints, or logos.
• Avoid neon or overly bright colors, as they can cast unwanted tones onto your skin.
• Avoid pastels, they can wash out the skin tone and lack the necessary contrast for a sharp professional look.

What about black and white?

Black and white can work really well, but require a little more styling. A thin white button, a black sweater? Probably not, however a well fitted and modern cut black suit – absolutely.

• Black: While proper fit always matters, it really matters when wearing black. Avoid baggy clothing to prevent unflattering silhouettes. It can be easy to lose your shape entirely while wearing black so proper fit, accent colors, jewelry, and layering work well.
• Bright white can blow out under studio lighting, and tends to wash out many skin tones. It also can make you look wider than you really are, so like with black clothing, fit and fabric matters. It’s also recommended to mix a color with white to soften the harshness, this could mean a blue tie with a white button or a colored jacket over a white top.
• If you are someone who really does not wear a lot of color in their normal life, consider bringing in a shade from the neutral palette to soften the look. Think tan, champagne, charcoal or taupe to create a clean palette that will compliment most brands.

Choose clothes that fit Well and flatter without Distracting

• Tailored and well-fitting tops look sharp and confident. Baggy and loose clothing will make you look larger in photos. Clothing that is too tight can lead to bulging.
• Layering works beautifully: A blazer, cardigan, or jacket adds dimension and visual interest. In general lighter colors are worn underneath with darker colors over top.
• Avoid, thing, clingy or shiny clothing: They will show every bump and crease.
• Necklines should frame your face: V-necks, crew necks, and scoop necklines tend to look great on camera.
• Avoid turtlenecks for headshots they create a visual line that is distracting when cropped. For three quarters or full body shots, a sleek turtleneck can work with proper styling.
• Make sure buttoned shirts fit well around the neck, and are not too tight. If layering a collared shirt with a jacket, ensure the two collars work well together.
• Long sleeves or three quarter sleeves are most flattering. Unless you absolutely loooove your arms.
• Avoid shoulder pads: While they look great to the eye, they can make you look very boxy in photos.
• Jewelry should be tasteful and minimal to avoid becoming a distraction.
• Avoid tweed, tight patterns, small polka dots, pinstripes, small checked patterns. These create what is called a moiré effect, which means it is a pattern that the camera sensor cannot process properly and it leaves a dizzying wavy effect in your photos.

Dress Your Headshot for the job (or client) you want

Your outfit should reflect who you are and what you do as well as where you would like to go. Think about your industry, and the message you’re sending:

• Traditional or corporate: Classic blazer, buttoned down, clean lines, well fitted.
• Creatives: A pop of color or stylish accessory that expresses your point of view.
• Entrepreneurs and small business owners: Choose colors and styles that align with your brand palette to create consistency across your website, social media, and marketing materials.

Last Touches: Styling and Prep

While this is alot of information, it is intended to answer any questions you may have – not overwhelm you You know what looks great on you. That one color that everyone compliments, that jacket that makes you feel great. Final thoughts:

• Solids over prints: Let’s keep the focus on you.
• Minimal accessories: Just simple jewelry to add polish without distraction.
• Check fit and condition: No wrinkles, no worn out clothes, collars that sit right, no stains or pulling.
• Bring extras: Bring two or three more outfits than you need. Before we start shooting we will go through all of your options and make changes if we feel it’s necessary.
• Wear color unless you are confident in styling black and white.
• Take a test shot: Sometimes what looks great in the mirror does not translate in photos. Try on the outfit you’re considering and have a friend take a photo of you in natural light.

Phew! Now you’ve made it through the two hardest steps, finding a photographer and choosing what to wear. It only gets easier from here! Ready to book your Raleigh headshot or branding session? Reach out for more details!