How to Prepare for Your Headshots for Men
(Tips on Clothing and Hair)
Headshots are absolutely crucial for effectively reaching potential customers. When individuals search for you online, they often make quick decisions about whether or not they want to work with you based on what they see. They want to know, "Who is behind this business?" Authentic, real photos of you and your team play a significant role in building a meaningful connection and fostering trust with your audience. This comprehensive guide offers valuable tips on what to wear for your headshots, along with expert makeup advice and essential preparation ideas to ensure you look your absolute best in your photos.
What to Wear for Headshots
Consider your profession - Lawyers, government workers, and those in conservative jobs should wear dark, formal clothes. Employees in start-ups or casual industries can dress more casually for headshots. Artists have more options but should avoid outfits that overshadow their face.
Solid color - Wear solid colors for your shirt, polo, or jacket. Avoid stripes or small patterns, which can create a visual issue called Moire. Bring solid color clothing to your session.
Well fitted shirt - If you don't wear casual or formal shirts often, try one on 2-3 days before your session. Our bodies change over time, and it's important that your shirt fits well, especially around the neck.
White shirt only with a jacket - A white shirt isn't the best option. It reflects a lot of light, making it the brightest part of your headshot instead of your face, which should stand out. Our eyes naturally go to the brightest area in a photo, so your shirt shouldn’t be the focus. If you wear a white shirt, it's better to pair it with a darker jacket.
Undershirt - Undershirts can show through your shirt or create lines. Avoid wearing one for headshots. A well-fitted, wrinkle-free t-shirt is okay.
Hairstyles and Facial Hair
Hairstyles - Avoid getting your hair cut the day before your session. Schedule it about a week in advance to allow some natural growth and softer edges. If you shave your hair daily, continue as usual on the session day. For less frequent shaving, do it 1-2 days prior to the session. If you wash your hair daily, keep your routine. Your hair should not go unwashed for more than 1-2 days before your session.
Facial Hair - Pay attention to nose and ear hair; trim them before the session. To avoid razor burn, use suitable shaving creams and aftershaves. If you experience razor burn, it can be partially fixed during editing.