Hair & Nails
Neatly styled hair makes all the difference! Stick with a style you know and love rather than trying something brand new right before your session. If you’d like, schedule a session with a professional hair stylist.
Don’t forget your hands and feet, they may show up in full-body shots. Treat yourself to a manicure and/or pedicure, or simply make sure nails are clean, shaped, and polished if you prefer.
Makeup
Professional makeup is highly recommended for photos. It helps smooth skin tones, minimize shine, and enhance your features on camera. Aim for a natural look rather than anything heavy or trendy, you want your photos to remain timeless. If you’re doing your own makeup, foundation and powder will help control shine under the lights. Need a recommendation? Just ask, I have trusted artists I can connect you with.
Quick Tip: Glasses can leave little red marks on the nose. If you don’t plan to wear them, take them off at least 15 minutes before your session.
Clothing
Choose outfits that make you feel confident and flatter your body type. Solids are best because they keep the attention on you rather than the clothes. Bold colors, earth tones, or darker shades that slim are all great options. Avoid busy patterns, but if you love them, pair them with a solid piece for balance. Pinterest is a great resource if you’re looking for outfit inspiration! Feel free to bring a second outfit ,having additional options is always good.
fOR WOMEN
Hair & Grooming
A fresh haircut or trim a few days before your session is a great idea. Pay attention to facial hair: whether you prefer clean-shaven, a beard, or stubble, make sure it’s neatly groomed. Don’t try out a brand-new look right before your photos; stick with what feels natural to you. Hands may show in your photos too, so make sure nails are trimmed and clean.
Skin & Shine
Even if you don’t usually wear makeup, it’s smart to prep your skin. A little oil-free moisturizer and blotting before your session can help prevent shine. If you tend to get oily, let me know—I keep blotting papers on hand to help.
Quick Tip: If you wear glasses but don’t want them in your headshot, remove them about 15 minutes before the session to avoid marks on your nose.
Clothing
Choose well-fitted clothing that complements your frame. Avoid baggy or oversized shirts, as they can appear sloppy in photos. Solids are best—think crisp button-down shirts, blazers, or a fitted sweater. Neutral tones, earth colors, or jewel tones work especially well on camera. Skip loud patterns, stripes, or logos, which can distract (unless the logo is for your business). A classic jacket layered over a simple shirt is always a safe and professional option. Bring a second outfit if you’d like some variety.
fOR Men
Preparing For Your Session
Rest & Hydration
Get a good night’s sleep before your session. Rested eyes and fresh skin will help you look your best. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your shoot—hydration helps your skin look healthy.
Confidence & Comfort
The best photos happen when you feel like yourself. Wear clothes that fit well and make you feel confident. Avoid anything that feels restrictive or uncomfortable, you’ll look more at ease on camera when you feel good. I highly recommend trying on your clothes before your session to ensure your clothing fits properly.
Grooming & Details
Check the little things, lint on clothing, smudges on glasses, scuffed shoes, or wrinkled shirts. These details show up in photos! Taking a few minutes to polish the small stuff makes a big difference.
Try On Your Outfits Before Your Session
Make sure everything fits properly and feels comfortable when you move and sit. Jackets that are too big or too tight, shirts that pull, or pants that bunch can be distracting in photos. Proper fit makes a huge difference in how polished and confident you look on camera.
If you have recently lost weight, it is especially important to try on your clothing ahead of time. What once fit perfectly might now look oversized or boxy, especially with jackets and blazers. Ensuring everything fits just right will help you feel more confident and look your absolute best in your photos.
For Everyone
- Get a haircut or trim a few days before the session.
- Neatly groom beard, stubble, or clean shave.
- Clean, trimmed nails.
- Use moisturizer or blot oil before the session.
- I have blotting papers available if needed.
- Remove glasses 15 minutes before the session if you’re not wearing them in photos.
Clothing
- Wear fitted clothing (no baggy shirts).
- Solids work best (button-downs, blazers, sweaters).
- Neutral, earth, or jewel tones photograph well.
- Avoid logos or busy patterns (unless it’s your company logo).
- Consider layering (jacket over shirt).
- Bring a second outfit for variety.
- Stick to a familiar hairstyle (no last-minute changes.
- Consider booking an appointment with a professional hair stylist.
- Manicure/pedicure or clean, polished nails.
- Professional makeup recommended (natural look).
- Use foundation/powder to reduce shine.
- Avoid heavy, trendy looks.
- Remove glasses 15 minutes before the session if you’re not wearing them in photos.
Clothing
- Choose flattering solids (bold colors, earth tones, darks).
- Avoid busy patterns (or pair with solids).
- Bring a second outfit for variety.
- Get plenty of rest the night before.
- Drink water to keep skin fresh and hydrated.
- Wear clothes you feel confident & comfortable in.
- Try On Your Outfits Before Your Session
- Check details: lint, wrinkles, clean shoes, smudge-free glasses.
- Bring a warm smile + positive energy!
