What to Wear Headshot Prep: 3 Essential Tips for Boise Idaho Women to Look Their Best
Woohoo! You finally booked that headshot photoshoot—kudos to you! I know, you've been putting it off, but you took the plunge, and that's half the battle won. Now, the big question looms: “What on earth am I going to wear?!”
First things first—DON’T PANIC! Seriously, take a deep breath. You probably don’t need to go on a shopping spree (but hey, if you’ve been looking for an excuse to treat yourself, this is a pretty darn good one—after all, that new headshot is going to pay for itself with all the new connections and opportunities it brings your way!).
Chances are, everything you need is already hanging in your closet. So let’s dive in and uncover the perfect pieces to help you nail that flawless headshot look!
GOAL: Showcase your personality and style while keeping a professional tone
TIP #1 Dress the Part
First things first, let's talk about choosing the right outfit that reflects the level of "business" you want to convey. Are you going for a polished power suit, or does your profession vibe more with jeans and a classic tee? The key is to align with the general expectations for your field. For example, if I’m searching for an attorney, I’d expect to see them in sharp, formal attire—not rocking a “Dog Mom” graphic tee (as cute as that might be). On the flip side, if I’m on the lookout for a personal trainer, a perfectly steamed blazer might not exactly scream “let’s get moving!”
Seems like common sense, right? But it’s always good to double-check.
Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind when picking out your outfit:
DO steer clear of baggy clothing! Even if oversized blazers and tees are trending, they don’t translate well in headshots. Trust me, fitted clothing will look much sharper.
DON’T wear big logos. You want the focus to be on your radiant face, not on some brand’s logo. Let people connect with you, not a company’s branding.
DO choose colors that complement your skin tone and make your eyes pop. Avoid super bright hues like neon yellow—they tend to be more distracting than flattering.
DON’T sacrifice comfort for style. If your outfit feels itchy or stiff, it’ll be harder for you to relax and let your personality shine through in your photos. Remember, beauty doesn’t have to mean pain!
TIP #2 Accessorize with intention
Accessories can make a significant impact on your overall look. Think of them as the punctuation mark at the end of your fashion statement. They add interest and style to your outfit, but it’s crucial to strike the right balance. Accessories should enhance, not distract from, your appearance—especially in photos.
Consider the following accessory ideas (Keeping Tip#1 in mind):
Headbands and hair accessories: Perfect for adding a touch of flair.
Scarves: Great for introducing a pop of color and additional layers.
Necklaces: Whether layered, chained, or dainty, choose something that complements your outfit.
Rings and bracelets/bangles: These can add subtle elegance.
Earrings: Select styles that frame your face beautifully.
Watches: A functional yet stylish accessory that can also add color.
Hats: Choose a style that matches your personality and the look you're going for.
TIP #3 Makeup Application — Camera Ready VS Everyday
Let’s talk makeup—because yes, there is a difference between your everyday look and what works best for photography. You’ve probably heard the advice to “apply MORE for photos,” but what does that even mean? No one wants to cake on a whole bottle of foundation! So, after countless hours spent editing headshots, here’s my take on how to nail your makeup for the camera.
Start with your foundation. Apply just enough to create an even, smooth layer that balances your skin tone—without crossing into cakey territory. Everyone’s skin is different, so find what works best for you and your foundation type. Skip the heavy contouring; a bit of highlight and bronzer will add a lovely glow, but don’t go overboard trying to master every nose-slimming trend. The lighting in your headshot will naturally contour your face, and your photographer knows exactly how to pose you to highlight your best features.
Speaking of foundation, make sure the shade matches your neck! The last thing you want is to end up with two different shades staring back at you every time you see your photo.
When it comes to eyeshadow and lip color, stick to neutral tones. Just like with your clothing, you want the focus to be on you, not on bold or overpowering makeup.
One last tip—skip the SPF on the day of your shoot. Sometimes, it can react weirdly with artificial lighting, and you don’t want any surprises in your final photos.
BONUS TIP #4 Skin, Hair, and Nails: The Extras That Make a Difference
Skin Care Tips
Tanning: If you plan to spray tan or sun tan, do it at least two days before your session to avoid any redness or uneven skin tone.
Hydration: Start drinking plenty of water and hydrating your skin 1-2 weeks in advance.
Moisturize: Don’t forget to moisturize the day before your session to ensure your skin looks its best.
Waxing and Shaving: Complete these at least a day before your shoot to avoid redness.
Lips: Exfoliate and moisturize several times in the week leading up to your session for smooth, photo-ready lips.
Hair Preparation
Styling: Arrive with your hair styled in your favorite way, ready to be photographed.
Consistency: Avoid making drastic changes to your hair style or color right before the session.
Trims and Touch-Ups: Get any necessary trims or highlights done at least one day prior.
Cleanliness: Clean hair photographs best.
Nail Care
Polish: If you wear polish, make sure it’s not chipped. Neutral colors are ideal for a professional look (think natural, pink, taupe, grey, or French tips).
Bold Colors: If bold colors are more your style, ensure the shade complements your outfits and doesn’t clash with the overall aesthetic.
