This guide is your one-stop shop for crafting the perfect headshot wardrobe. You might not realize it, but your clothes hold surprising power in your headshot. Through years of collaborating with clients, I've seen firsthand how the right outfit can elevate your image and command attention. This guide unlocks the secrets to crafting a headshot wardrobe that gets you noticed – for all the right reasons.

The Best Color To Wear
|
Headshot Outfits
|
Do's and Don'ts
|
Makeup and Hair Tips
|
Benefits of Studio Pod

What is the Best Color to Wear for a Headshot?

While the choice of color can vary based on personal preference and industry norms, certain colors universally yield positive results. Let’s explore some of my favorite techniques and tips:

Exploring Color Theory in Headshot Photography

Color theory isn't just for artists! Understanding how colors interact can elevate your headshot game. Here's a quick breakdown:

Warm Colors (Red, Orange, Yellow): These evoke energy, enthusiasm, and creativity. Perfect for showing your passionate side, but use them sparingly for a professional setting.
Cool Colors (Blue, Green, Purple): Associated with calmness, trust, and professionalism. Ideal for conveying authority or a serene demeanor.
Complementary Colors: Colors opposite each other on the color wheel (e.g., blue and orange) create a vibrant contrast. Consider a complementary pop of color in your accessories (like a bright scarf, statement earrings, or a patterned tie) for a touch of personality.

Choosing Colors That Enhance Your Skin Tone

The right color can do wonders for your complexion in a headshot!

The key is to understand your skin's undertone. Look closely at your veins on your wrist under natural light. If they appear greenish, you likely have warm undertones. Blueish veins indicate cool undertones. If you can't decide, you might have neutral undertones, lucky you!

Warm Undertones:

Embrace earthy tones like olive, camel, and rust. Golden yellow, peach, and coral also flatter warm complexions.
Don't shy away from rich colors! Deep reds, burgundies, and even emerald greens can create a striking contrast and make you glow.

Cool Undertones:

Rock those classic cool colors - blues, greens, and purples. Jewel tones like sapphire and amethyst are particularly stunning.
Pastels are your friend! Baby blue, lavender, and soft pink add a touch of elegance and complement cooler skin tones.

Neutral Undertones:

You can experiment with a wider range of colors. Opt for neutrals like navy, grey, and beige, or embrace bolder choices like teal and jade green.

Sticking with Solid Colors

While bold patterns and trendy prints might catch your eye, solid colors are generally preferred for headshots as they help keep the focus on your face.

Patterns can be distracting, drawing attention away from your face, the star of the show! Solid colors ensure all eyes are on you.
Solid colors exude a clean and professional vibe, perfect for a headshot that makes a strong first impression.
Solid colors are incredibly versatile. You can mix and match different solid-colored tops and jackets to create multiple headshot options.
Trends come and go, but solid colors never go out of style. Your headshot will look polished and professional for years to come.

Solid doesn't mean boring! Solid colors come in a vast spectrum! Explore different shades within a color range to find one that complements your skin tone and personal style.

Contrasting or Complementing with Your Backdrop

When selecting your headshot outfit, consider the backdrop of your headshot.

Contrasting Colors:

Choosing a color that contrasts with your outfit can make you pop off the background. For example, a crisp white shirt against a dark grey backdrop. Bold color combinations can also work for creative fields, like a vibrant red top against a teal backdrop.
High contrast can enhance your features and make your headshot more dynamic. However, avoid extremely bright or neon colors that can be overwhelming.

Complementary Colors:

Opting for colors that complement your outfit creates a harmonious and unified look. Think wearing a blue top with a light grey backdrop (both cool colors).
Complementary color combinations can create a sense of calmness and sophistication, ideal for professional settings.

Finding the Perfect Balance:

Think about the message you want to convey. High contrast works well for a bold personality, while softer tones create a more approachable vibe.
Hold different colored fabrics next to your outfit and in front of your potential backdrops. This will help you visualize the final result.

Headshot Outfits: Types of Clothing That Photograph Well

How to Dress for a Headshot?

The best clothes for a headshot often depend on the individual's personal brand and professional context. For more formal industries, you can go with darker and more formal clothing, while less traditional fields allow for more casual attire. Artists have flexibility but should avoid outfits that distract from their faces. Stick to modest necklines, avoid tight patterns, and ensure well-fitted clothing. Keep your outfit tidy, logo-free, and aligned with your professional image. Here are some of my favorite headshot outfit ideas for you:

Formal Industries (Law, Finance, Banking):

Men: A well-fitting navy blue suit (slim fit) with a light blue non-iron dress shirt. Complement the look with a woven silk tie in a subtle geometric pattern (think greys and blues). Polished brown dress shoes and a minimalist wristwatch with a pen tucked into the breast pocket complete the professional image.
Women: A tailored black pencil skirt (knee-length) paired with a crisp white silk blouse. Add a pop of color with classic red pumps. Finish the look with a single strand of pearls and a minimalist wristwatch.

Creative Industries (Marketing, Design, Media):

Men: Choose a well-fitting suit in a bolder color like charcoal blue or deep green. A patterned shirt or statement tie can add a touch of flair. Consider a sweater vest or scarf for a layered look.
Women: Embrace color and texture! A well-tailored jumpsuit or a statement dress in a vibrant color can work wonders. Play with layering a patterned blouse under a blazer. Accessorize with bold jewelry or a statement scarf.

Tech Industries (Startups, Software):

Men: Project approachability with a business casual look. A button-down shirt paired with dark wash jeans or chinos conveys a relaxed yet professional vibe. A blazer can be added for a more formal touch.
Women: A tailored skirt or pants paired with a statement knit top or a flowy blouse in a bright color creates a modern and confident look. Loafers or flats add a touch of comfort.

female model - what to wear for headshots

What is the Best Type of Hat to Wear for a Headshot?

There is no specific "best" type of hat for headshots; it should align with your brand or identity. If hats are a part of your everyday look, consider wearing one that complements your overall appearance and doesn't overshadow your face. If hats are not a usual part of your looks, skip them! Headshots aim for a clear view of your face, and hats can block key features like your hairline and forehead.

Should You Wear Glasses for Headshots?

Wearing glasses for headshots is a personal choice. If you typically wear glasses and they are a part of your daily look, it's advisable to wear them for headshots. However, ensure that the glasses have minimal to no reflective coating to avoid glare. Clean the lenses before the photoshoot to ensure clarity in the final images.

Sleeves or Sleeveless

For headshots, it's recommended to wear sleeves, either long or three-quarter length. This choice looks more professional and avoids drawing attention to your arms, which are often the most camera-forward part of you.

Best Neckline for Headshots

Choose necklines that are modest and enhance your facial features. V-necks, boat necklines, and crew necklines are excellent choices. Avoid turtlenecks or low necklines that may require constant adjustment. The right neckline can contribute to a well-balanced and flattering headshot.

Best Color Shirts to Wear for a Headshot

For a professional look, stick to solid colors and avoid loud patterns or busy prints. Neutrals like black, navy, and grey are always safe bets. Consider adding a pop of color with a jewel tone like sapphire blue or emerald green, but ensure it doesn't overpower the image.

Do's and Don'ts of Headshot Outfits

Do's:

Consider featuring multiple outfits to add variety to your headshots.

Prior to the session, ensure your clothing is free from wrinkles by ironing or steaming.
Opt for well-fitting attire to avoid a saggy or ill-fitting look.
Choose clothing that aligns with your brand or industry for a professional image.

Don'ts:

Avoid overly casual clothing, as it may not convey a professional appearance.
Refrain from wearing tight patterns or textures that can be distracting in photos.
Steer clear of clothing that is too tight, as it may not photograph well.
Avoid attire that doesn't fit properly or match the expectations of your brand or industry.

Makeup and Hair Tips for Headshots

When it comes to makeup and hair tips for headshots, it's essential to pay attention to the details. Proper makeup and hairstyling can play a significant role in achieving a polished and professional look for your headshot session, ensuring that you present your best self to your audience. To learn more about the expert tips, read our dedicated article Makeup Tips for Professional Headshots.

Benefits of Studio Pod for Streamlined Headshot Sessions

The greatest advantage of using Studio Pod for your headshot sessions is its innovative, photographer-free setup, ensuring a comfortable and stress-free environment that allows you to experiment with different attires and expressions at your own pace.

Studio Pod is designed to guide you through the headshot process seamlessly, with automated guidance for achieving the right poses and expressions without any confusion or need for external assistance. The combination of a fast, user-friendly process and the ability to comfortably experiment with attire in a pressure-free setting revolutionizes the headshot experience, making Studio Pod an ideal choice for professional and polished results.

Joseph West

Joseph West, a co-founder of Studio Pod, leverages his extensive experience in photography to provide professional headshot services. Through Studio Pod, he shares his insights and expertise in the photography industry, underscoring his commitment to the photography industry.

What to Wear for Headshots: The Full Guide