8 Things To Consider When Preparing For Your Headshot Session

1. What to wear?

 

It is a good idea to pick out your clothes and accessories at least a day before so you are not stressing out. Headshots are only pictures of your head so feel free to be business on top and casual on bottom, no one will know. Shoes are not important, unless you feel the best and most professional and powerful in your sexy heels, then bring them. 

When choosing your tops keep it simple. Busy patterns distract from what is most important… YOU. The goal of the photo is to showcase your face, not your shirt. Avoid logos unless you are representing your brands logo and you feel like it is important. Think about something that elongates your neck. Although the occasional turtleneck can work, make sure it is not your only option. Color is great but make sure it is flattering and not overwhelming. I love solid black and the classical white shirt but it is not always the best option so give yourself lot’s to choose from. I always caution on the side of bringing too much then not enough. 

I personally love it when my clients send me photos of their choices. Remember I am here to help out so don’t be afraid to ask for my opinion. I have lots to give!!

 

2. Accessories

 

When adding accessories in your headshot session make sure it is a perfect representation of you. I personally love simple elegant earrings and nothing else. I have had clients who love extravagant jewelry but the real gem here is YOU. So make sure if you are adding additional accessories that it is on brand. 

If you wear glasses like me, you may choose to wear them in your photos. I don't recognize myself without them so I will usually choose to have them. We can absolutely grab some shots with and some without. 

 

3. Hair

 

It is always a good idea to visit your hair stylist for a polished look a couple days before. If you plan it right you can see them on the day of your shoot so you have a fresh blow out. But make sure you are perfectly sure you will walk out of the salon confident. I suggest not changing up your style too much so you still look and feel like you when you see the images. 

 

4. Make-Up

 

This might be one of the most personal decisions you will have to make. Some people prefer to have no make-up on and some prefer to be done up completely. Whatever you choose just make sure it feels natural to you so you don't see your images later trying to find yourself behind the make up or wishing you did a little more. I do suggest at least some powder if you have oily skin to avoid being too shiny. 

When I am in front of the camera I love wearing lashes and feel most confident when I do! I also love changing up my lip color during my shoot but if you choose to do that make sure you start with a light color first and work your way up to a darker color. 

 

5. Nails

 

Yes Nails! Your hands might make it into the shot so make sure your hands and fingernails are manicured. Keep in mind what you are wearing and keep nail color on brand. And if you don’t wear pollsh make sure there is no dirt under your fingernails. 

 

6. Skin

 

The health of your skin is so important. I suggest drinking lots of water for at least a couple of days to keep your skin as plump and clear as you can. Eat healthy foods and stay away from the fried and salty stuff. 

Tanning is not necessary and can turn out unexpected and uneven. Let’s avoid this all together and even avoid the sun for a couple of days to avoid any accidental burning. 

And most importantly get lots of sleep the night before to minimize any bags under your eyes. We can’t escape the aging process and sometimes our skin has a mind of its own so don’t stress about it. Know that you are doing your very best and that is good enough. If there is something out of your control I will take care of it in the editing process. So don’t let that random pimple ruin your experience. I promise to make you look your absolute best! 

 

7. Practice

 

Being in front of the camera can be really scary. Most of my photoshoots start off a little shy and unsure and end in complete confidence. That is to be expected. You need some time to get used to being photographed. But there are a couple things you can do ahead of time to speed up this process. Practice! Literally park yourself in front of the mirror at home and practice. Practice your smile, your stance, your body language. What feels and looks the best to you? What is your good side? How do you want people to see you? Relaxed? Serious? Try on all of these different faces and play around. It’s ok to make yourself laugh. Have fun with it and take the time to really see yourself and how amazing you are!

 

8. Plan Your Day

 

Wake up with enough time for your morning routine and to get ready. Make sure everything was packed the night before. Know where you are going to meet your photographer, time, location, directions and plan out traffic. Make sure you know how to reach your photographer if you get lost. If you have a hair or make-up appointment arrive early because they always take a little longer than expected. And make sure you are on time for your shoot!