HEADSHOT Guidelines
We love a blank canvas to help create the person in you that the public desires to meet. Allow us to pose you in the most positive way as we see from a different perspective.
General Headshot Guidelines
(If You're Serious About a Great Headshot)
What to Bring
- Get some rest. Avoid alcohol and tobacco, as these will cause dark circles under the eyes, and cause the eyes to appear tired.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Do not make drastic changes in your appearance within 3 days of your photo shoot, such as “tanning”.
- Possibly bring a second top (of another color or texture) in case the one you wear does not compliment your face well.
- Determine if you desire a specific look in your headshots (smiling, non-smiling, etc). Otherwise, we love a blank canvas to help create the person in you that the public desires to meet. Allow us to pose you in the most positive way as we see from a different perspective. In other words, be open minded and trust us to capture you well.
- Be on time. Punctuality is important because we often have others who may be scheduled immediately after you. If you are going to be late, please call or text promptly. Without a call or text, we will make a determination on whether to reschedule.
- If you post on social media, it is a common courtesy to tag your team (photographer, stylist, makeup artist, and whoever else contributed).
Clothing
- Since I shoot headshots only on a white background, avoid wearing a white top without a color complimentary accessory.
- Clothes should be comfortable, and pressed. Jackets should fit well.
- Clothes should fit properly. Nothing should poorly fit or be too tight. Wearing shirts where button holes are stretched do not look well in a photo.
- If you wear blues, greens, and turquoises, they can compliment or emphasize the eyes. Earthtones can emphasize darker eyes.
- No busy patterns as they are a distraction to faces (which are the real reason for a headshot).
- Turtlenecks are a no-no. They “crowd” the face, and are seasonal.
- Medium tones and pastels do not photograph well, but textures in fabrics work fine.
- No busy jewelry. Men or women. This is not a fashion shoot, but a business headshot.
For Men
- The standard typical dress for men is a jacket, dress shirt, and tie. However, this depends on your business model. Remember “first impressions”. No white shirt by itself.
- Have a fresh shave, unless you have well groomed facial hair.
For Women
- Do not wear busy patterns.
- Standard professional attire is a dress shirt and suit jacket, unless your company has another preference.
- Different necklines will change the apparent shape of your face.
- Wear something that makes you feel great.
Skin Care / Makeup
- Digital photos show every detail, so pay attention to your skin several days in advance of the photo session.
- Moisturize your face to avoid dryness and cracking skin. Drink plenty of water.
- Makeup should not be overdone or heavy. Makeup may be a little heavier on the day of the shoot. A clean headshot is always well received.
- Lipstick should be lined nicely, not overspread.
- Don’t experiment with new products for hair or face before the shoot, because it may cause an allergic reaction.
Hair
- If you are making changes in your hair or hair color, do this at least one week prior to shoot.
- Bring a hair brush and products needed to touch up hair, such as hair spray, etc.
What to Bring
- Maybe a previous headshot that you liked.
- A washed clean face (fresh makeup applied).
- Lip balm for men. Lipstick for women. Dryness will show on a face.
- Makeup and hair products.
Final Thoughts
I want you to have the best experience with these headshots. The reason for the many ideas is to give you the opportunity to have a “better than the usual” headshot.
All my headshots will be on a bright white background (this is our headshot brand). No alterations, adjustments, or any other background will be photographed.
Typical durations should be to update your headshot every 18 months, as people do change, and the public needs to be aware of who you really are.
Thank you,
Marty Moran