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Styling Tips for Your Headshot & Portrait Session - Women

By: Adriana @ Tysons Corner

MASTERING. HEADSHOT. WARDROBE.

In the digital era, a professional headshot is a crucial asset for creating a lasting impact. Whether you're refreshing your LinkedIn presence, building a personal brand, or pursuing new career opportunities, your headshot communicates volumes about your identity.

Beyond being a mere image, your headshot serves as a potent instrument, enhancing your brand and distinguishing you from the crowd.

To help you make the most of your headshot session, and optimize your headshot experience, we've curated a detailed guide to styling tips for women. From choosing the perfect outfit to mastering the art of makeup and hair, we've got you covered.

Let's dive in and ensure you look and feel your best for your upcoming headshot session!

Outfit Session Tips

When it comes to choosing the perfect outfit for your headshot session, there are a few key tips to keep in mind:

  1. Choose Classic Pieces: Opt for timeless, well-fitted garments that reflect your personal style without being too trendy. Classic pieces like a tailored blazer, a crisp button-down shirt, or a simple blouse are great choices.

  2. Avoid Busy Patterns: Busy patterns can be distracting and take away from your face, so opt for solid colors or subtle patterns that won't overpower your features.

  3. Accessorize Wisely: Accessories can add personality to your look, but avoid anything too flashy or distracting. Opt for simple, elegant pieces that complement your outfit without overpowering it.

  4. Layering for Depth: Layering can add depth to your outfit and create visual interest. Experiment with layering a sweater over a blouse or adding a blazer to your ensemble for a polished look.

  5. Avoid Too Much Distraction: Patterns, logos, and loud accessories will all take the focus off your face, which is why it's best to stick to solid color tops and blouses and toned-down accessories. It's also best not to wear tops that are too low cut as it will have the same effect.

  6. Make Sure it Fits You Well: Even though your headshots only focus on the upper half of your body, it's still important to make sure your top or blouse fits well as this looks the most professional.

  7. Long Sleeves are Better: Short sleeves add skin to the edge of a headshot, and can also be distracting, which is why long sleeves are better.

  8. Avoid Transparent Clothing: Since you will be taking photos in proper lighting, make sure that your top won't be transparent in bright light.

  9. Choose the Right Undergarments: Whatever you decide to wear, make sure that your bra is not visible. Check for straps and any bumps that the fabric might create under your top.

A Classic Look for Business Headshots

You can't go wrong with this look. Make sure you choose a well-fitting blazer that accentuates your body shape, as this will be the key item to this look. Styling the blazer with simple black trousers and a white blouse brings this outfit together.

A More Feminine Look for Business Headshots

For a feminine touch, a skirt and blouse combo works wonders. This outfit features a monochromatic look in tones of neutral beige. Tuck in the blouse to highlight your waist, and add a belt for extra detail. Accessorize with a scarf for a stylish finish.

A Casual Look for Your Business Headshots

White is perfect for a carefree vibe. Pair it with a white silk blouse with jeans and nude shoes, which gives your look a little more of an unassuming feel. Add a white blazer for a tailored touch that makes a statement.

A Clothing Color Guide

Choosing the right colors for your headshot can make a big difference in how you appear on camera. Here are some tips for selecting the perfect hues:

  1. Neutral Tones: Colors like navy, gray, black, and white are timeless and versatile, making them great choices for headshots. These colors are flattering on most skin tones and won't distract from your face. 

  2. Contrast for Black and White: If you plan to take black and white headshots, choose contrasting colors. For example, if you're planning to wear a white shirt, opt for a black or navy blazer. Wearing a lighter shirt with an equally light jacket won't work for this style of photography.

  3. Keep Color Combos Simple:  Layering is great for adding interest to your headshots, but if you're going to do it, make sure your color combinations work well together.

  4. Draw Attention with Bold Shades: While a bold necklace or earrings will draw attention to your face, it will place the focus on your accessories. If you want to draw more attention to your face in your headshots, wear bolder shades around your neckline.

  5. Avoid Neon Colors: Neon colors can be harsh and distracting, so it's best to steer clear of them for professional headshots. Opt for softer, more subdued tones instead.

  6. Consider Your Skin Tone: Choose colors that complement your skin tone to enhance your natural features. If you're unsure, stick to classic neutrals that flatter all skin tones.

  7. Consider Branding: If your headshots will be used on your website and marketing material, consider your brand colors. Find small ways to work these colors into your outfit so that your photos are complementary.

  8. Reduce Light Reflection Using Deeper Colors:  If you're planning to have your headshot photo session outdoors, choose deeper colors instead of pale, light colors to avoid looking washed out due to light reflection.

 

Here's a look at the psychology of colors. Choose the most appropriate options for your headshots:

  • White: purity and innocence
  • Black: mysterious
  • Orange: optimistic
  • Yellow: intelligent and joyful
  • Red: passionate and energetic
  • Green: nurturing and growth-oriented
  • Purple: creative, powerful, royal
  • Pink: playful and loving
  • Brown: secure
  • Gold: successful
  • Grey: unemotional

How to Style Your Hair

Your hairstyle can have a big impact on your overall look in your headshots. If you are not hiring a professional hair and makeup services, here are some tips for styling your hair:

  1. Keep It Simple: Opt for hairstyles that are classic and simple, as overly styled hair can be distracting. A sleek blowout or a simple updo can look polished and professional.

  2. Consider Your Face Shape: Choose a hairstyle that complements your face shape and highlights your best features. If you're unsure, consult with your hairstylist for advice.

  3. Practice Makes Perfect: If you're planning on trying a new hairstyle, practice beforehand to ensure you're happy with the result. This will help you feel more confident on the day of your shoot.

 

What to Do About Makeup

Makeup can help enhance your features and give you a polished look in your headshots.  We highly recommend that you hire professional hair and makeup services for your portrait or headshot session, but if you decide not to, here are some tips for makeup application:

  1. Keep It Natural: Aim for a natural makeup look that enhances your features without looking too heavy. A light foundation, mascara, and a neutral lip color can go a long way in enhancing your natural beauty.

  2. Focus on Your Eyes: Your eyes are the focal point of your headshot, so make sure they stand out with subtle eye makeup. A touch of eyeliner and mascara can help define your eyes without looking too dramatic.

  3. Use Setting Spray: To ensure your makeup stays put throughout your session, use a setting spray to lock it in place. This will help you look fresh and polished in your photos.

Beauty Tips (Caring for Your Skin)

In the days leading up to your headshot session, it's important to take care of your skin to ensure you look radiant and glowing. Here are some beauty tips to keep in mind:

  1. Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and plump. This will help your skin look healthy and radiant in your headshots.

  2. Exfoliate: Exfoliate your skin a few days before your session to remove any dead skin cells and reveal fresh, glowing skin. This will help your makeup go on smoother and last longer.

  3. Moisturize: Keep your skin moisturized to ensure it looks healthy and luminous in your headshots. Use a rich moisturizer to hydrate your skin and create a smooth canvas for makeup application.

By following these expert styling tips, you can ensure you look and feel your best for your professional headshot session.

Remember, the goal is to present yourself authentically while showcasing your professionalism and personality.

With the right outfit, hair, makeup, and skincare routine, you'll be ready to shine in front of the camera and make a lasting impression.

If you have a question don't hesitate to contact us using the following link: https://www.tysonsheadshots.com/contact-us or you can always schedule a call to get your questions answered on the spot. 

 

Save to Pinterest for Inspirational Purposes!  

 

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