What to Wear for a Professional Headshot

What to Wear for a Professional Headshot: A Complete Guide

Your professional headshot is often your first impression. Whether it’s for LinkedIn, your company website, speaking engagements, or personal branding, what you wear plays a powerful role in how confident, credible, and approachable you appear. The right wardrobe choices can elevate your image and help your personality shine through the lens.

Below is a practical guide to help you prepare for your next headshot session.

1. Dress for Your Industry

Your outfit should reflect the image you want to project. Think of your headshot as visual communication.

• Corporate professionals (law, finance, executives): Structured blazers, button-down shirts, tailored dresses

• Creative professionals (designers, artists, entrepreneurs): Modern cuts, subtle patterns, stylish layers

• Real estate agents: Polished business attire that feels approachable yet confident

• Small business owners and freelancers: Elevated casual (think smart, intentional, and clean)

Your clothing should feel authentic while still presenting your best professional self.

2. Choose Solid Colors Over Busy Patterns

Solid colors photograph better than loud prints. They keep attention on your face instead of your clothing.

Best choices:

• Navy

• Charcoal

• Soft blues

• Jewel tones

• Earth tones

Avoid:

• Neon colors

• Loud patterns

• Large logos

• Distracting graphics

If you want to wear a pattern, keep it subtle and minimal.

3. Think About Fit and Structure

Well-fitted clothing instantly elevates your appearance on camera. Wrinkled, baggy, or overly tight outfits can distract from your image.

• Choose tailored pieces that complement your body shape

• Avoid overly loose tops that can look bulky

• Make sure collars lay flat and sleeves sit naturally

• Try everything on ahead of time and move around in it

If it doesn’t feel good, it won’t photograph well.

4. Necklines Matter

Your neckline frames your face, so it plays a bigger role than most people realize.

Flattering options include:

• V-necks

• Scoop necks

• Button-down shirts

• Structured collars

• Blazers with clean lines

Avoid overly low cuts or overly tight necklines that pull attention away from your face.

5. Keep Accessories Simple

Less is more when it comes to headshots.

• Small earrings instead of large statement pieces

• Simple necklaces over chunky jewelry

• Minimal bracelets and watches

• Glasses should be clean and glare-free

You want people to remember your face, not your accessories.

6. Grooming Makes the Difference

A great outfit means little without good grooming.

• Hair: Neatly styled, natural, and clean

• Makeup: Keep it natural and camera-ready (matte foundation, neutral tones)

• Facial hair: Trimmed and intentional

• Nails: Clean and neutral if visible

• Skin: Stay hydrated and avoid trying new skincare products right before your session

7. Plan for Multiple Looks

If your session allows it, bring 2–3 outfit options.

A smart lineup might include:

• One formal business look

• One modern business casual look

• One personal branding look

This gives you variety for LinkedIn, your website, marketing materials, and speaking opportunities.

8. Dress Like the Person You’re Becoming

Your headshot isn’t just about who you are today — it’s about where you’re headed. Choose clothing that reflects your next level, your ambition, and the brand you want to build.

Ready for a Headshot That Works for You?

Your image should speak before you do. At Wilson Photos LLC, we help professionals in Atlanta and Alpharetta look confident, credible, and authentic through high-end, guided headshot sessions.

If you’re ready to elevate your professional image, schedule your session today.