What to Wear for Female Professional Headshots? [Ultimate Guide]
As a professional photographer, I know how much women stress about what they should wear for their headshots.
The truth is, for women – the outfit chosen for their professional headshot not only reflects their style but also embodies their professionalism, competence, and overall image.
It’s crucial to strike the right balance to convey the desired impression.
In this article, I’m going to share what women should wear for professional headshots – knowing these tips is going to make it easy to capture the perfect business headshot.
What to Wear for Professional Headshots Female?
What should females wear for professional headshots?
For professional headshots, females should opt for neutral colors like whites, blacks, and navy to exude professionalism. V-necks are a universally flattering choice.
It’s important to avoid complex patterns and instead focus on subtle textures to add depth. Accessories should be minimalistic, with classic jewelry pieces.
Hair and makeup should be natural yet polished, with a matte finish recommended to avoid unwanted shine.
Choosing Your Outfit
What’s the significance of choosing the right outfit for a female professional headshot?
For women stepping into the corporate or creative sectors, the right outfit can communicate competence, confidence, and charisma.
So, what exactly should you wear to ensure your headshot leaves the correct impression?
Let’s dive into the art of dressing for professional headshots and what factors you should consider when choosing your outfit, jewelry and makeup for your headshot.
The Philosophy & Psychology of Color
What role does color play in professional headshots?
Color is more than personal preference; it communicates moods, feelings, and trustworthiness.
1. Neutrals are Timeless
Whites, blacks, medium grey, and navy are universally flattering and scream professionalism. They’re non-distracting, and make the focus remain on your face.
If you’re looking to capture a good corporate portrait for your role, this would be our suggestion.
2. Be Mindful of Brights
Bright colors can sometimes overpower the photo. If you do opt for brighter hues, make sure they complement your skin tone and don’t clash with the background.
If the background is white or light colors, then you must opt for an outfit that should be medium to dark colors. It would be the perfect combination for your business headshots.
For example, If your favorite color happens to be dark grey, you should wear clothing with this color If the background happens to be white.
This guide elaborates more on choosing the right outfit for your headshot session.
Patterns, Textures, and Layers
Not only does color matter, but the texture and pattern play a pivotal role too and really come out in the final photo depending on the resolution it’s presented in.
1. Simplify the Patterns
Intricate patterns or loud prints can be distracting. Stick to subtle patterns or go for solid colors for a cleaner, crisper look.
2. Textures
Textures, like soft knit or light linen, can add depth and interest to the photo without being overpowering, so definitely consider that if you have that as an option in your existing wardrobe.
3. Consider Layering
A tailored blazer or a sleek cardigan/turtleneck can add sophistication to your overall look. We recommend trying on a few options to see which fits your personality the best.
Necklines and Silhouettes
Your choice of neckline can affect the overall balance and harmony of the headshot. Please make sure to not be too sexy.
1. V-Necks for the Win
V-necks are universally flattering, elongating the neck and drawing attention to the face, this would be our recommendation.
2. Beware of Distractions
Ultra-low cuts or overly intricate necklines take the focus away from your face, which is not what you want to do for a professional headshot.
Accessories: The Icing on the Cake
While the adage ‘less is more’ predominantly rings true, thoughtful accessorizing can elevate your outfit in a positive way.
1. Jewelry
Opt for understated pieces. Think classic studs or a delicate pendant. Avoid overly flashy or large jewelry.
2. Glasses
If you wear glasses daily, wear them for the shoot. Ensure they’re clean, and watch out for reflections caused by the lighting.
Hair and Makeup: The Final Flourish
1. Stay Authentic
Stick close to your usual style. Now might not be the time for that experimental shade of lipstick.
2. Use a Matte Finish
A matte finish for your makeup can prevent unwanted shine or glare in the photo which is important for looking professional.
Tips to Nail the Look
Trial and Error: Before the shoot, try on outfits and take some tests with a few photos. This gives a sense of how they’ll translate on camera.
Comfort is Key: If you’re uncomfortable, it’ll show. Choose outfits that make you feel confident and at ease.
Consult Your Photographer: They’ve seen it all and can offer valuable insights about what works best.
To Sum It All Up
You shouldn’t stress about what to wear for your professional headshots — just follow the tips in this article and you’re sure to have amazing results.
Remember, opt for neutral colors, and wear minimal jewelry. Your hair and makeup should not be overdone – something simple, natural, and polished is ideal.
And remember, you will have lots of lights shining on you for the photo shoot, so don’t go with anything that can cause a glare – wear makeup and clothing that should ideally be matte so you don’t end up with a sunspot in your photos!
Best of luck on your headshot adventures, we know it’s going to turn out amazing!
