Best Tips for Men’s Headshots
Lots of times, the Ladies get all the attention for preparing for Headshots. Often, they are getting the most time and attention. But let’s face it, the Men want to look great too!
Keeping that in mind, here are a few of my best tips for Men’s Headshots:
Plan Ahead for Your Headshot Session
Prepare Ahead of Time: My number one tip to any client preparing for Headshots is to perhaps treat it like a client meeting—because essentially, your Headshot kind of is. Your Headshot will often be your first introduction to clients, so you want to treat it as such. A little forethought and planning goes a long way.
Keep it simple: A candid photo may seem like a great idea on the surface. However, a clean, well-lit Headshot with you looking at the camera goes a long way. After all, in today’s internet focused environment, your Headshot is your virtual introduction—your digital handshake. Don’t overthink it.
Suits that are properly tailored and fit well photograph wonderfully.
Attention to Details
The Devil is in the Details. Good Grooming is vital. If you are planning on getting a haircut, plan on doing that a week before to give it time to grow in a bit. Make sure facial hair is neat and trimmed. We do often show hands, so make sure your hands and nails are clean and neat.
Properly fitted clothing and good grooming are essential!
Wardrobe Suggestions
Wear clothing that is flattering and looks good on you. Think about what you wear that gets you compliments when you wear it. Everything should fit well. Nothing too loose or tight please. Also, make sure all your items a clean and wrinkle free.
Layered looks can be your very best friend. Think suits, sport coats, vests or textured heavy sweaters. Of course, you want it to be what you generally wear and feel comfortable in. A professional Headshot should ideally help present the best version of yourself, not a fantasy version of yourself.
Long sleeves and ¾ sleeves are generally the most flattering for everyone. Short sleeves or no sleeves tend to limit the types of poses we can do, even for the most in shape people. If you feel you must do some in short/no sleeves, be sure to bring another option so you get a variety of flattering poses.
While some small prints are ok, solid colors really do tend to work best. Stay away from any print that is too large or loud—unless you are a creative or it is part of your brand. You want the focus of the photo to be your face, not your outfit.
Logos are fine if the company is looking for consistency in photos on the website.
Speaking of brands—shirts with logos. This is fine if your company requests that as an option or it is required for the website. However, this can be a little limiting and might look dated quickly. Especially if you change jobs.
Be sure to bring all the accessories that complete the look–socks, shoes, belts, etc. You would be surprised how often items are forgotten.
Ties—if you normally wear one, bring one. If you do bring one, be sure it is tied correctly. Bonus—A correctly tied tie falls in the middle at the belt. A tie tack is a wonderful item to bring.
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If you enjoyed our Best Tips for Men’s Headshots, you might also enjoy reading this post on Considering a Professional Stylist for Your Headshots.
Saratoga Headshots provides excellence in Professional Headshots and Branding Photography for clients in the Capital District of New York and the Adirondacks. Also available for travel assignments.
