What to Wear for Headshots: The Ultimate Guide to Headshot Session Outfits
When it comes to great headshots, your clothing choices play a role in the final result. Whether you're booking corporate headshots, actor headshots, or personal branding photos, the right headshot session outfits can boost your confidence and help you stand out in the best way.
In this guide, you'll learn what to wear, what to avoid, and how to prepare for a headshot session—so you look and feel amazing on camera.
Why Your Headshot Outfit Matters
Your headshot is often your first impression—on LinkedIn, company bios, speaking engagements, and personal websites. Clothing is a powerful tool that communicates your professionalism, personal style, and attention to detail.
The goal is simple: wear something that enhances your features, doesn’t distract from your face, and reflects the version of you that you want people to meet.
General Guidelines for Headshot Session Outfits
✅ Solid Colors Are Best
Solid tones are the safest and most flattering option for headshots. They help keep the attention on your face rather than your outfit.
Best colors for headshots include:
Navy, charcoal, black, and white
Jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, burgundy)
Earth tones (olive, rust, tan)
Soft neutrals and pastels
Avoid busy patterns, stripes, and logos, which can distract or create visual distortion on camera.
✅ Choose Colors That Complement Your Skin Tone
Fair Skin: Jewel tones like emerald, royal blue, and wine
Medium Skin: Warm neutrals like olive, camel, and mustard
Dark Skin: Bright, saturated colors like gold, crimson, and cobalt
If you’re unsure, bring 2–3 options. A professional photographer can help you choose what works best under studio lighting.
✅ Wear What Fits You Well
Well-fitting clothing = confidence. Avoid anything too tight or too loose. Structured pieces like blazers or tailored blouses photograph beautifully and add polish.
Best Outfit Ideas by Headshot Type
Professional or Corporate Headshots
If your session is for LinkedIn, a corporate website, or networking events, go with business-professional or business-casual looks.
For Women:
Structured blouse or button-down shirt
Blazer or tailored jacket
Simple jewelry, soft makeup
For Men:
Pressed button-down shirt
Suit jacket or sport coat
Tie optional, depending on the industry
Neutral colors or dark tones work best for formal headshots. They look timeless and clean.
Creative or Personal Branding Headshots
For entrepreneurs, creatives, influencers, or actors, headshots should show off a bit of your personality.
Consider:
Layers like cardigans, denim jackets, or leather
Textured fabrics like knits, tweed, or chambray
Statement colors that feel true to your brand
Avoid trendy items that may look dated in a year
Think about your brand aesthetic: Are you bold and playful? Warm and approachable? Let your clothing reflect that. This is where we let your personality shine through even more!
🚫 What NOT to Wear to a Headshot Session
Here’s what to leave in the closet:
Neon or ultra-bright colors
Busy prints (not all prints), large logos, or graphics (a reminder that logos and graphics may be subject to copyright or trademark claims by brands, and this is why you should avoid them)
Wrinkled or unpressed clothes
Sleeveless tops (unless layered)
Trendy cuts that may not age well
Distracting accessories or overly shiny jewelry
Remember, your headshot should focus on your face and eyes—your outfit should complement, not compete. If you are unsure about a pattern on a top, bring it with you, and we can decide together how it looks on camera.
Should You Bring Multiple Outfits?
Yes! Bringing 2–3 outfit options is highly recommended for sessions lasting 30 minutes or more.
Why?
You’ll get a variety for different platforms
A simple outfit change gives you more content to use
Your photographer can help select what works best on camera
Pro tip: You can even create a casual look, a polished professional look, and something in between—all in one session.
Grooming Tips to Pair With Your Outfit
Hair: Style your hair the way you normally would when meeting your ideal audience—whether that's a potential employer, client, or casting director. Aim for a look that feels like your “best everyday self”
Makeup: Go natural and matte; avoid shiny products
Facial hair: Groomed, trimmed, or clean-shaven—whatever’s consistent with your look
Glasses: Wear them if you do in real life, just make sure they’re clean when you arrive (You may notice that “transition” style lenses appear dark or discolored due to the lighting used in the session)
Headshot Session Outfit Checklist
Here’s a quick list to double-check the night before:
✔ Solid, fitted tops in flattering colors
✔ Outfits are wrinkle-free and lint-free
✔ Bring 2–3 outfit options
✔ Accessories are minimal and clean
✔ Hair and makeup match your everyday style
✔ You feel comfortable and confident in what you're wearing
📍 DC Metro Area: Book a Headshot Session That Makes You Look Your Best
If you’re in the Washington, DC Metro area and need headshots that help you look sharp, confident, and approachable, I’m here to help.
As a professional photographer, I’ll guide you through the entire process—from wardrobe advice to expression and posing guidance—so you walk away with headshots you’re proud to share.
👉 Ready to book? Click here to request a custom quote or call/text for more info.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right headshot session outfit doesn’t have to be complicated. Stick to classic, clean, and flattering choices that help highlight your unique personality and professionalism.
Confidence is always in style—and the camera picks it up every time.
