Having a high-quality headshot is necessary to make a solid first impression. We want to help you get ready for your new professional headshots starting with these tips.

Choosing Clothing for Men

When selecting clothing for men, opt for a classic, timeless look. Choose your favorite well-fitting suit, preferably in a classic dark color like navy blue or gray. Ensure the suit doesn't bunch up when buttoned or when sitting. Coordinate your shirt and tie to match each other and the suit.

Avoid bold and distracting patterns or colors. Steer clear of clothing with tight grids or small herringbone patterns, as they can create a moiré pattern effect on camera. Thin stripes with more spacing are acceptable.

For ties, aim for a tone that falls between the shade of your shirt and suit. Avoid overly shiny silk ties. 

If you opt not to wear a tie, choose a non-white shirt if possible, as white shirts without a jacket and tie can lack detail and folds. When wearing a button-down shirt, consider layering it with a jacket or sweater for a more polished look. If not, select a darker-colored shirt with pockets or details to avoid a monotonous appearance. Unbutton a button or two, or choose a shirt with a medium or low neckline to avoid a head floating on a boxy shirt. Ensure your undershirt is not visible, opting for a V-neck or no undershirt at all.

Choosing Clothing for Women

For women, opt for a professional suit or outfit with a classic and timeless appearance. Avoid clothing with bold and distracting patterns or colors, unless you can layer a blazer or sweater over it to minimize the pattern's visibility.

Steer clear of tight grid patterns or small herringbone designs, as they can create unwanted effects on camera. Thin stripes are acceptable. Avoid stark white clothing unless it's layered under something like a suit jacket, cardigan, or sweater.

Select V-neck styles to accentuate the neckline, but avoid excessively low necklines or turtlenecks, as they may not photograph well. Avoid short sleeves or tank tops, as executive headshots look more professional without bare arms.

When it comes to jewelry, it's best to go for no jewelry or choose small, classic pieces that aren't overly reflective or flashy. Earrings should dangle no more than an inch from your earlobe to keep the focus on your face, not your accessories.

Makeup: Do It Yourself or Hire a Makeup Artist?

If you're doing your makeup yourself, aim for a look similar to your everyday makeup. Avoid heavy makeup, as close headshots can accentuate clumps of mascara or dark lipstick. Choose light to medium eyeliners, eyeshadows, and lipsticks slightly darker than your skin tones. Steer clear of heavy foundation, shiny eyeshadows, or lip gloss, as excessive shine can be distracting on camera.

Don't hesitate to address skin blemishes, pimples, or wrinkles through retouching; it's not considered cheating. The amount of makeup you should wear depends on your usual makeup routine, so aim for a look that represents your everyday appearance. Makeup should enhance your features, rather than drawing attention with bright colors. If you prefer a professional hair and makeup team, you can arrange for their services.

Should I Get Professional Hair and Makeup Done?

Professional hair and makeup services may not always be necessary. It depends on your specific headshot needs. If required, we can schedule a professional artist for your appointment, allowing you to relax while they handle the details.

Session Duration

On average, a Free Headshot session lasts between five to fifteen minutes. During this time, we can capture multiple looks. The duration of engagement and bridal sessions varies based on your schedule and availability.

Delivery Time for Retouched Images

You will receive your retouched images within two weeks unless otherwise specified. The photos will be delivered in web-ready and high-resolution JPG format via the web.

Number of Images Received

For headshot sessions, you will receive a select number of finished and retouched photographs from each look you've chosen during your session. The exact number of finished files may vary depending on the session you've selected.

EDITING NOTES  

• Photos will have a basic professional edit. 

• Photos will be delivered back to the participant one week after the headshot event.

• Advanced edits and background changes can be made for a professional editing fee.

BASIC HEADSHOT RETOUCHING

• Skin smoothing and toning

• Teeth whitening 

• Basic touch-ups such as eyebrows

• Blemish and scar removal

• Background clean-up

• Adjusting brightness/contrast