How to Prepare for Professional Headshots: 10 Things That Make a Difference

A great headshot is part preparation and part photography. You control the first half. Here's what actually moves the needle.

Before the Session

1. Get your haircut 1 to 2 weeks before, not the day before

Fresh haircuts can look too sharp or reveal a different silhouette than what you're used to. Give it a week to settle.

2. Sleep well the night before

The camera captures everything. Puffiness, shadows under the eyes, and tired skin all read in photos. It sounds obvious, but it makes a measurable difference.

3. Moisturize your skin

Well-hydrated skin photographs better. Start a day or two before, not just the morning of. Avoid trying new skincare products right before the session, as breakouts from new products are a real risk.

4. Press or steam your clothing

Wrinkles that look minor in person look significant in a photo. Do this the day before, not while getting ready.

What to Wear

5. Wear what you actually wear to work

The best headshot looks like you on a really good day at work, not a dressed-up version of you that your clients will never see. If you wear business casual, wear business casual. If you're always in a blazer, wear a blazer.

6. Avoid trendy pieces

A headshot you'll use for 3 to 5 years should look timeless. Avoid very on-trend colors, collar styles, or patterns that will feel dated in 18 months.

7. Solid colors photograph better than patterns

Navy, grey, burgundy, forest green, and camel all work extremely well. Bright white can blow out in certain lighting. Avoid busy patterns and small checks.

During the Session

8. Tell us what you need the photos for

LinkedIn and a speaking bio page call for slightly different things. A startup founder and a hospital executive have different visual needs. The more you tell us up front, the better we can direct you.

9. Relax your jaw slightly

The most common tension in headshots shows up in a clenched jaw. A slightly open mouth, or the tip of your tongue resting gently behind your upper teeth, naturally relaxes the jaw and reads as more approachable.

10. Look slightly past the lens, not directly into it

A direct stare into the lens can feel intense. Looking slightly above or to the side of the lens often produces a more natural, engaging expression. We'll guide you through this during the session.

The Day-Of Checklist

• Clean, pressed clothing (2 to 3 options)
• Minimal jewelry that doesn't distract
• Hair and makeup closer to how you look daily, not a dramatic departure
• Matte skin (avoid shiny moisturizers or highlighters)
• Arrive 5 minutes early so you're not rushing
• Know what platform the photos will be used on