We live in times when the world meets you online and your headshot is the first photo that your potential clients/employers see. It’s not only an introduction but it also helps you connect with your audience and stand out from the crowd.
Using the right headshot has never been more important. Thus, outfits that you bring for your photo shoot will help us send the right message across, highlight your style and create great energy.
I’ve put together a short list of things that look good on the camera. I hope they will be useful once you start preparing for your own headshot session.
Avoid busy patterns, especially big black&white stripes. High contrast outfits will overpower the entire shot and viewer eyes will go straight away to the outfit, not your face. In general, everything that is too busy will take away attention from you, and we don’t want it. We want you to be in the spotlight. Subtle, low-contrast patterns help add a bit of depth to your outfit.
Avoid wearing tops with text on them. It’s a very similar scenario to wearing a patterned outfit, text will take away attention from you. Your brain will automatically want to read it. It’s just the way human attention works. However, if you want to promote your own business name wearing a branded top, then I assure you it’ll be the first thing people will look at.
Go for plain colours. Plain colours are the best choice for the camera. They create a beautiful background for your face, highlighting your physical features and skin tones. If you don’t know which colour is best for you, I’d advise you to invest in a colour consultation with a personal stylist. You will be able to find out which colour is yours and what to avoid.
Beware of white. White colour will be the brightest part of the photo and all the attention will focus on it. If you want to wear white, just break it by wearing some other colour on top, like navy or grey blazer/jacket.
What about black? Plain black may create one black spot in the photo. The final effect may depend on the material your outfit is made of. I’d recommend staying away from black suede as it may absorb all the light. However, I personally love black and I wear it for most of my headshot sessions. If you feel like you wouldn’t be able to do a photo shoot in a different colour, don’t force yourself. Most of all, I want you to feel comfortable and confident.
Your outfit should be well-fitted. If you go for a loose or baggy outfit, you will look much bigger than you are in a real life. It doesn’t have to be a perfectly tailored suit, but try to pick an outfit that fits fairly well.
Think about the neckline. V-neck is the most flattering neck style for women, it accentuates the jaw line and elongates the neck. A lot of my clients go for this option. If you go for a turtleneck, your face may look as if it was cut off from the rest of your body. Especially if it’s a very tight close-up. Round neckline will soften your jawline and it's very subtle. If it's your intention just go for it.
When you start preparing for your own headshot session, try to think about the style. Every industry will have different requirements. Corporate headshots will differ from acting ones. If you need more inspiration, you can look for ideas on Pinterest. It’s a great tool that will help you make the best choice.
Most of all wear something that you feel confident in and I’m sure you will pull it off!
Love,
Marlena
Feel free to get in touch if you’d like to book your headshot session in Dundee, or across Scotland. I’d be happy to advise you if you have any questions.
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