What to Wear When Taking Professional Headshots

How to dress fr your professional headshots. 

Wondering what to wear for headshots? Whether you’re preparing for new professional headshots or updating your LinkedIn profile, choosing the right outfit is essential to make a strong first impression. The best headshot outfits are simple, professional, and help you feel confident while keeping the focus on your face.

In general, opt for solid, neutral tones, avoid busy patterns, select clothes that fit well, and ensure your choices align with your personal style and professional brand. Below, we’ll explore expert tips on what to wear, what to avoid, and how to make the most of your upcoming headshot session.

Table of Contents

• How to Choose the Best Outfits for Professional Headshots
• Top Tips on What to Wear for Headshots
• Mistakes to Avoid When Picking Headshot Outfits
• Choosing Colors for Your Headshot Session
• Matching Your Outfit to Your Personal Brand
• Quick Summary
• FAQs: What to Wear for Headshots
• Why Work with a Professional Headshot Photographer?

How to Choose the Best Outfits for Professional Headshots

Selecting what to wear for headshots can feel overwhelming, but the process becomes much easier with key guidelines:

• Keep your look business casual or professional, depending on your industry.
• Choose solid colors and neutral tones (like navy, gray, black, white, tan, or soft blue).
• Clothes should be clean, well-fitted, and pressed.
• Avoid busy patterns and logos, as they can distract from your face.
• Think about your skin tone when choosing outfit colors—some shades flatter certain complexions more than others.
• Consider how your outfit reflects your personal brand.

Working with an experienced professional photographer can help you select the right wardrobe for professional headshots and ensure you present your best self on camera.

Top Tips on What to Wear for Headshots

Dressing for a headshot session should make you look approachable and self-assured. Use these proven tips to look and feel your best:

1. Prioritize Fit and Comfort

• Avoid ill-fitting clothes. Baggy or tight outfits can look unprofessional and make you feel uncomfortable.
• Clothes that fit well will help you relax and pose naturally, important for great headshots.

2. Stick to Solid Colors and Neutral Tones

• Solid colors photograph best. They keep the focus on your expression, not your outfit.
• Neutral tones such as black, white, light gray, navy, or beige are universally flattering and timeless.

3. Avoid Distracting Patterns or Logos

• Busy patterns (like stripes, plaids, or florals) can distract from your face.
• Logos and graphic tees aren’t appropriate for professional headshots.

4. Think About Layers and Simple Accessories

• Layer with a blazer, cardigan, or suit jacket for a polished, professional look.
• Accessories should be minimal, and avoid large or flashy jewelry that could distract from your face.

5. Match the Mood to Your Job or Brand

• Corporate professionals may want a tailored blazer and classic blouse or shirt.
• Creatives or entrepreneurs may add a pop of color or texture, but should still aim for simplicity.
• Consider your industry’s norms and what helps you feel confident and authentic.

Mistakes to Avoid When Picking Headshot Outfits

Even the best intentions can lead to wardrobe missteps. Avoid these common mistakes during your photo session:

• Wearing ill-fitting clothes: Bulky, saggy, or overly tight outfits look less professional and are unflattering in photos.
• Bold, busy patterns: They can distract and create visual noise in images.
• Too much black or pure white: While these shades work well, pairing them together or choosing ill-suited tones for your skin can appear harsh.
• Over-accessorizing: Keep jewelry and accessories simple to ensure nothing competes with your face.
• Ignoring your skin tone: The wrong color can make you look washed out. Choose hues that flatter your complexion for natural, healthy-looking skin in your headshots.

Choosing Colors for Your Headshot Session

Color can enhance your look or distract from it. Here’s how to make smart choices:

• Skin Tone Matching: Choose colors that complement your unique skin tone.
• Cool skin tones: jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, or plum.
• Warm skin tones: earth tones such as camel, olive, or warm red.
• Solid, Muted Hues: These draw attention to your eyes and smile.
• Black and White: Universally classic, but check with your headshot photographer on which works best for your coloring and the session background.
• Avoid Neon and Highly Saturated Colors: These can create color casts on your skin and are visually overwhelming.

Matching Your Outfit to Your Personal Brand

Your professional headshots should reflect who you are and what you do:

• Choose outfits that align with the image you want to project (creative, authoritative, approachable, etc.).
• When in doubt, business casual usually strikes the right balance.
• Layered looks and simple, tailored pieces indicate polish and professionalism.
• Think about where your headshots will be used, LinkedIn, website bios, business cards, etc., and match your wardrobe accordingly.

FAQs: What to Wear for Headshots

1. Can I wear black or white for my business headshot?

Yes, both black and white are classic options. However, pairing them with a complementary tone or accessory can soften the look and flatter more skin tones.

2. Should I bring more than one outfit to my headshot session?

It’s always a good idea! Bringing 2–3 tops lets your professional headshot photographer help you choose what’s most flattering and gives you more variety.

3. What should I avoid wearing for professional headshots?

Stay away from busy patterns, bright neon shades, clothing with logos or text, and anything ill-fitting. Keep the focus on your face and expression.

4. How much jewelry is too much?

Less is more. Opt for subtle, simple pieces that won’t distract from your face.

5. What if I want my headshots in black and white?

Black and white headshots look great with contrast and texture. Solid, neutral tones and simple outfits work best. Consult your headshot photographer for personalized guidance.

Why Choose Kim Quillen Photography for Your Headshots?

At Kim Quillen Photography, we create professional headshots that reflect your confidence, personality, and personal brand. Serving clients across West Virginia, Ohio, and Kentucky, Kim offers expert wardrobe guidance, a relaxed session experience, and stunning images that make a lasting impression. Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn profile or building your business brand, trust Kim to bring out your best.

Let’s elevate your professional presence. Contact Kim Quillen Photography today for your personalized headshot session.