With a new year, comes new things! New goals, new trends, new habits and usually. . . NEW HEADSHOTS! As soon as you book your session, your mind starts overflowing with questions. . . “What should I wear? How should I prepare? What should I bring?” There are so many worries! Don't stress! Here are a few tips to help you feel prepared for your shoot. . .
Attire
• Solid colors - Easiest way to make sure your face is the focal point of your shoot. Stay away from distracting colors like neons.
• Simple Patterns - This shoot is about you and your face. We want the final images to be focused on your face, not your wardrobe. So if you decide you want to wear a pattern, make sure it’s simple and not busy.
• Wear something you love! You want to be confident and comfortable.
• Classic. Classic. Classic. Don’t wear clothing that is trendy or seasonal. This way your headshots will be relevant for every season.
• Make sure all clothing is ironed or steamed. Professionals don’t wear wrinkly clothing.
• Bring along Downy Wrinkle Releaser - This stuff saves lives. Not really, but it is amazing!
• Bring a lint roller. Attack any last minute fuzz balls or pet hair.
Hair
• Bring a brush or comb along with hair spray or gel. This way you can calm down any fly aways right before the shoot.
• If you aren’t the best at doing your own hair, look into getting your hair done the morning or day of shoot. Don’t worry, it’s more common than you think it is.
• If you want to get a haircut, I recommend doing it a few days before the shoot.
Makeup and Face
• This isn’t a fashion shoot. I usually recommend natural looks. Smokey eyes tend to look very dark in images and we want your headshots to look friendly and welcoming. Think simple and classic.
• Bring lip gloss or chapstick to the session. Dry lips are not a good look on you. 😉
• Bring oil absorbing sheets and/or face powder to control oily skin
• Ladies: If you decide to get your eyebrows or upper lips waxed, do it a few days prior to the shoot.
• Men: If you want to have a clean shaven face, do it right before the shoot. A 5 o’clock shadow is not a great look for headshots. I recommend using cooling gel or aftershave to help your skin look less irritated.
• If you can afford the extra cost, hire a makeup artist! I promise you won’t regret it!
As a photographer, I’ve seen it all. The good, the bad, the unprepared. I promise you, if you prepare for your headshots and follow these simple guidelines, you will LOVE your headshots. Interested in stepping up your business game? Shoot me a message and we can start planning your headshots!
Do you have any other tips to prepare for headshot sessions? I would love to read about them in the comments below!