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Preparing for Professional Headshots: Part I

In our world of heavy digital presence and social online connections, a great business portrait or headshot is more important now than ever before!   So, to help you achieve the best outcome and photographic experience we have put together a few tips for what to wear and how to best prepare for your next headshot session. 

Dress for Success

This is not a headshot of yesteryears…. business portraits of today lean less towards a formal look and more towards an image that highlights personality and style.  Depending on where your image will live and how you will use it will determine how much leeway you will have on adding some personal flare.  If your headshot has a lifestyle approach, dress in layers with colors and styles that show off your personality.  If your portrait will be used in a more traditional forum than consider business attire against a solid background. 

Tips:

  • Choose an outfit that makes you feel great; the more confident you feel in an outfit the more comfortable you will be during your headshot session..
  • Make clothing selections a day or two before your headshots (earlier if possible) to avoid last minute wardrobe stress or malfunctions (press or make alterations well in advance to look your very best)
  • Add accessories for a personal touch and pop of color.
  • Bring 2-3 tops and 1-2 pant options.  The main focus will be the upper body but coordinating lower body including shoes is helpful for full body images.
  • Dress in layers to easily change up the look without having to change into a new outfit. 
  • Go for solid colors rather than busy patterns or clothing with logos, as they draw attention away from your face. Choose cream over white and grey over black as black and white can wash out your skin tone. 

 

Skincare

Your skin is a direct reflection of your health and vitality, so to look your best, start from the inside out. Your skin will reflect levels of rest, hydration, sun exposure and stress. 

Tips:

  • Exercise, even a short walk helps to keep stress levels down, releases toxins and helps to oxygenate your body. 
  • Start hydrating by drinking plenty of water a week prior to your headshot session.
  • Exfoliate your skin. A professional facial is great but even a simple washcloth with cleanser can help. Exfoliating exposes new radiant skin, minimizing wrinkles and preps skin for makeup application.
  • Moisturize after shower and as often as needed.
  • Limit sun exposure which can damage and irritate your skin causing uneven skin tone. 
  • Get plenty of sleep to avoid dark circles and puffy bags under your eyes.
  • Try to eat healthy foods, minimize or avoid fried and salty foods as they cause bloating and water retention 

Great Hair

Great Hair

Hair is a game changer, for this reason choose a hairstyle that best highlights your face and is true to you.  If you decide to try a new look, give yourself plenty of time to adjust to styling your new look before scheduling your session.

 

Tips:

  •       Choose a haircut and hairstyle a week or two in advance as freshly cut hair can look strange on camera.  
  •       Wax, pluck or shave any unwanted hair from ears, nose and face for a clean groomed look.

Unwanted Hair

Don’t let unwanted hair up stage you. Even the smallest of hairs can create a shadow on skin and interfere with makeup application. 

Tips:

  •       Check in unexpected locations (ears, chin and nose can appear over time)
  •       Remove unwanted hair a day or two before to avoid red marks or skin irritation. 
  •       When shaping eyebrows consult a professional to ensure your best shape for your eyes and face. 

Smile

Your smile is your best asset, so remember to give your lips and teeth a little TLC before your session. 

Tips:

  • Avoid foods and liquids like coffee, tea and red wine before your headshot session to avoid stains.
  • If you would like your teeth a bit brighter invest in a professional or DIY cleaning and whitening treatment a week before your session.
  • Don’t forget lips! Moisture and exfoliate them for plump and healthy skin and smooth lip balm or lipstick application. 

Nails and Hands

Your hands may be visible in some images, so give your hands and nails a little extra TLC. A professional manicure is nice but not necessary, clean and groomed are all you need. 

Tips:

  • When using polish choose a neutral, skin tone polish, or a clear coat, so as not to draw attention away from face.
  • Use a nutrient rich cream on hands and nail cuticles to smooth skin. After shower is best to lock in moisture. 

For more great tips on how to prepare for a professional headshots read "How to prepare for Headshots Part II"

Ready to get started? Contact us we are happy to help!

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