What Should I Wear For Professional Headshots and Personal Branding Photos?
What should I wear? How many times do we ask ourselves this very question?! It is also the most frequently asked question I get in relation to Headshots, Personal Branding, and Executive Portrait Sessions.
Headshots Are Often Your First Impression—Make It Count!
Let’s face it—we have a few brief moments to make a first impression. We literally have seconds. Therefore, what we wear and how we choose to present ourselves can make or break an interaction. To build on that idea, more and more people are using the Internet to scout out potential service providers and business connections. Using an updated professional Headshot or Executive Portrait will automatically help you stand out in a crowded digital marketplace.
Standing Out With Your Professional Headshots and Personal Branding Images
When you really think about it, a professional Headshot is one of the most important tools you have in your toolbox to promote your career or business. It can also be the most cost effective. It can be your first point of contact on your website and social media accounts. It is very easy now for people to “weed out” who they want to work with based on how you present yourself online.
How do we ensure a successful Headshot, Personal Branding or Executive Portrait Session?
After booking and prior to the session, I have a Consultation with my clients. We discuss what they do, how they do it, who their existing and potential clients are, and how they want to present themselves. Of course this involves clothing and styling!
Clothing Tips For a Successful Headshot or Branding Session
Here are a few quick pro tips for you:
• Color is a very powerful way to convey a message. Of course, choose colors that flatter you. But let’s also think about the messages color can convey. Blue and green can be calming and relaxing, while red can be very powerful. Yellow is often perceived as energetic.
• We all have certain outfits that when we wear them, we get many compliments. Let’s just be sure the compliments support the message we want to convey.
• A casual look can be warm and inviting—until it crosses the line into sloppy and unprofessional. Be aware of the fit of what you are wearing so as not to look unkempt.
One more thing—I also advise clients during a Consultation is to bring multiple outfits, especially if they are unsure or on the fence about their choices. That way we can determine together what will work for their end goal. Sometimes while we might love a particular outfit, I may not necessarily photograph well.
What NOT To Wear For Your Headshots
Any What to Wear List would be incomplete if we did not include pointers on what NOT to wear. Here are a few things you might not want to wear:
- Sunscreen—it can make your skin look a little weird in photos
- Patterns—generally it is good advice to stay away from too much pattern in your professional photos. In addition, stripes can give a “moire” effect that is hard on the eyes.
- Satin or Silk can be a little problematic unless worn under a blazer or jacket—it can be clingy and show lumps and bumps. They are also highly reflective, which can be a distraction.
- Incorrect undergarments. Nothing ruins a Professional Headshot quicker than the wrong undergarments. Make sure no bras straps or panty lines are showing when trying on potential outfits. Men please make sure your undershirt looks correct under your shirt. Choose the correct neckline and color for the shirt you are wearing.
Consider your Headshot, Personal Branding or Executive Portrait as an investment in your career or business—choosing the right outfit to help make a great and lasting first impression.
Be sure to visit our online Professional Headshot and Personal Branding Portfolio to view our gallery of work with our clients.
Schedule Your Own Professional Headshots and Personal Branding Photos
You can schedule a quick consultation call by using our online Calendar. You may also contact Saratoga Headshots by using our Contact Form or by calling (518) 584-4237 today.
Susan Blackburn of Saratoga Headshots is a Professional Headshot and Personal Branding Photographer located in Saratoga NY. She services clients from Albany up to Lake George. Susan is also available for travel out of area for an additional fee.
