What to Wear for Your Headshot Session

Wardrobe & Prep Tips | Kelly Kendall Studios

Whether you’ve already booked your Headshot Express session or you're considering it, this guide will help you feel confident, prepared, and completely yourself in front of the camera.

After photographing hundreds of professionals, entrepreneurs, and everyday people who want to look and feel their best, I’ve learned a thing or two about what works (and what doesn’t) on camera. Let’s dive in!

Wardrobe Tips for Women & Femme Clients

1. Bring more than you think you’ll need!
   It’s so much easier to create great looks when you have options. If you're questioning whether you should bring something, just bring it! We can pare down your outfits when you get here.

2. Choose form-fitting clothing.
   Fitted styles tend to photograph best. If you’re bringing looser pieces, no problem! I have tricks to tailor them for camera (hello, tiny clamps!).

3. Think solid colors and interesting textures.
   Look for tops in solid colors. Avoid loud patterns as they may detract from your face. Textures like lace, ruffles, and ruching add visual interest without being overwhelming.

4. Bring a variety of colors.

   Try to bring:

   • Something light (ivory, white, pastel — if they flatter your skin tone)

   • Something dark (black, charcoal, navy)

   • A pop of color that brings out your eyes or ties into your brand

5. Look for layers.
   A tailored jacket or slim-fitting cardigan can help show your shape and create visual interest.

6. Consider longer sleeves.
   ¾ sleeves and long sleeves photograph beautifully. Sleeveless is totally fine too, especially when paired with layers.

7. Bring coordinating bottoms.
   Some poses show your hips, lap, or legs, especially when seated or leaning. Bring pants or skirts that complement your tops so you’re polished from every angle.

8. Necklines matter.
   Scoop necks and v-necks are universally flattering and help elongate the neckline. Turtlenecks are ok too, as long as they’re fitted and not overly chunky.

9. Choose jewelry that reflects you.
   Whether minimal or bold, make sure it feels like you.

10. Come with clean, manicured nails (if that's your thing).
    Hands come into the frame a lot with headshots. Neutral colors, simple buff or French manicures work well. But if you don't want to get a manicure, that's ok. Just know that your hands will be in the frame.

11. Bring appropriate undergarments.
    For example, strapless bras so your straps don't show, or seamless panties and shapewear in appropriate colors.

Wardrobe Tips for Men & Masc Clients

1. Bring more than you think you’ll need!
   It’s so much easier to create great looks when you have options. If you're questioning whether you should bring something, just bring it! We can pare down your outfits when you get here.

2. Well-fitting clothing is key.
   Slim-cut shirts and jackets look sharper and more modern than boxy or oversized styles.

3. Avoid busy patterns — with some exceptions.
   Solid colors keep the focus on your face. If patterned shirts or jackets (like checks or plaid) are part of your style, bring them! Just note that certain small, repeating patterns can sometimes look strange or distorted on camera. I’ll help you decide what works best when you arrive.

4. Bring a variety of colors.

   Try to bring:

   • Something light (white, gray, pastel)

   • Something dark (black, charcoal, navy)

   • A color that brings out your eyes or aligns with your brand

5. Layer with intention.
   V-neck sweaters, sport coats, and tailored jackets elevate your look and help slim the body visually.

6. Going for a casual look? Consider long sleeves.
   A long sleeve knit henley looks more polished and put together than a short sleeve t-shirt. We could also roll the sleeves on a button up, collared shirt for a more relaxed look. However, if t-shirts are your look, bring a few and we’ll incorporate them.

7. A collared, button up shirt and suit jacket is your best friend!
   You can't go wrong with a white shirt and dark, fitted jacket. It looks very GQ! Go without a tie for a more relaxed look. Add a tie for a more professional look.

8. Bring coordinating bottoms.
   Some shots are 3/4-length. Bring pants or jeans that match your selected shirts; that way if your knee or hip is in the frame, you'll be stylishly covered.

9. Bring coordinating shoes and socks.
   Though we typically won’t be photographing full length, you'll still want to bring the right footwear. Sometimes feet come into the frame with cross-legged poses.

10. Accessories can add polish.
    You may want to do shots with or without glasses. Bring rings, watches, and cufflinks, if desired.

11. Clean, groomed hands.
    Hands come into the frame a lot with headshots. Tend to your fingernails and polish your wristwatch and rings too if you wish.

✨Prepare, but don’t stress out.

These tips are here to help you feel your best — NOT hard, fast rules. Don’t stress about following every single one. Bring what feels like you, and I’ll take care of the rest.

Still have questions? Want help deciding what to bring?
I’m just an email away.

📸 Let’s create something amazing together!

— Kelly