Top tips for your headshot photoshoot
Prepare to be you. Be visible. Be your best.
Hello, I’m so glad you've booked a headshot session, a great decision! A professional headshot is more than just a photo—it’s the first impression you make in the digital space. Whether you need a headshot for your business profile, LinkedIn, or personal branding, preparation is key to getting the best possible results. Follow these tips to look confident, polished, and camera-ready for your session.
Four quick tips to help you prepare for your headshot photoshoot
Tip 1: Take time to choose the right outfit
Your clothing plays a big role in how professional and approachable you appear in your headshot. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Opt for solid colors - Avoid busy patterns or overly bright colours that distract from your face.
Stick to classic styles - A timeless, well-fitted outfit will keep your headshot looking fresh for years.
Layer smartly - Adding a blazer, cardigan, or jacket can give you more versatility in your photos.
Consider your brand and personality - If your headshot is for business purposes, align your outfit with your industry’s expectations.
Shirt collars count: If you’re wearing a collared shirt, please choose your newest shirt with the crispest collar for the best result.
Comfort is crucial: Wear something that makes you feel confident and at ease.
This striking image demonstrates how one’s attention goes immediately to the eyes and face because everything around this is layers of darker colours. When choosing your outfit, try to choose clothing that reflects your personality, while doesn’t distract.
Tip 2: Grooming and finishing touches
A little self-care will give you the edge:
Hydrate and rest: Plenty of water and a good night's sleep can work wonders for your complexion and energy levels.
Your smile: Make sure it is bright and sparkling on the day.
Hair care: Stick to your usual hairstyle, avoid haircuts or new hair colors right before your shoot.
Facial hair: Trim and ensure a clean shave (if applicable) on the day of your session.
Makeup: Keep natural and well-blended, focusing on enhancing your features.
Eye-wear: If you wear glasses, please bring non-light sensitive glasses and give them a good clean to minimise light reflections.
Essentials: Pack a small bag with items like a comb, powder, or lipstick for quick touch-ups. I do have a mirror for you to check your appearance during the shoot.
This photograph shows how crisp, well fitting clothing adds to an excellent first impression online.
Tip 3: Facing the camera
Look at photographs of yourself that you like: Spend a little time going through your photographs and identify why you like them. Share this with me, even show me the photograph at your session. For example, some people don’t like their teeth showing in a photograph and tell me before the session so I am sensitive to their preference. Lots of people start the session telling me which is their best side!
Posing: My role is to position you, find flattering angles and pose you, so please don’t worry about this before the session.
Relaxation is key: Most people are very uncomfortable in front of a camera. A genuine, relaxed photograph wins every time, so if you have some calming strategies you know will help you feel more comfortable at the session, please feel free to use them. (I’ve played music for some of my clients!) It also helps to approach the session with a positive mindset and you will find you enjoy it!
Sitting in front of a camera definitely takes one out of their comfort zone. A positive mindset and relaxing strategies are key to getting a great photograph, and the photographer plays a major role in relaxing the client too.
I’m always open to hearing your views and what you like and don’t like - it is the best way to work towards a result you are pleased with.
Tip 4: Communication
Share your ideas: Discuss your goals and any concerns with me. I’m committed to collaborating with you to create images you love. I’ll also show you some of the images during the session so you can direct me to what you like.
”This photoshoot is all about capturing the wonderful, unique person that you are. With a bit of preparation and a dash of confidence, we'll create headshots that show you at your best. I’m looking forward to meeting you. My warmest regards.”
Need professional headshots? Check out my headshot page and book a session with me, Penny Bird, and let’s create stunning portraits that represent you at your best.
My digital presence on LinkedIn - I hope it reflects me as a friendly, professional person, someone who will put you at ease and who has the experience and knowledge to deliver an excellent result that exceeds your expectations.