Top Headshot Tips For Men

When you get the best photos of yourself you attract the right clients or get the job interview you applied for. The best male headshots are authentic and genuine. They show personality, approachability, and professionalism when done right.  When you hire the right photographer they will help you achieve this goal.

I know how important men’s headshots are for an online presence. I want you to succeed, get incredible headshots, and go after your dreams. Let’s get started.

What to wear for male headshots

The number one question  I get as a professional photographer is what to wear for professional headshots.  There are 5 tips to keep in mind when deciding how should men dress for a headshot:

  1. Wear well-fitted clothing. Not too tight but not too loose.
  2. Dress for the industry or job you want.
  3. Long sleeves are better for headshots than short sleeves. The less skin that shows in the photo the better.
  4. Solid colors are better than patterns. This goes for coat jackets, dress shirts, and polo shirts.
  5. Wear appropriate attire that relates to the field you are in. If it is common for men to wear a tie then a necktie should be worn.

Pro male headshot tip:

Try on the outfit a couple of days before your photo session. Bring 2 -3 shirts or jackets for a variety. If you are still unsure of what to wear check out other profiles on LinkedIn specific to your industry or job type. This will give you ideas of what men are wearing for their professional headshots.

Hairstyles for men’s headshots

Your hairstyle should reflect how you look on a daily basis. When someone sees your online profile photos or headshot on your website, it should reflect how you look in real life and in person.

# 1 Tip for men’s hairstyles

Don’t get a haircut the day before your headshot session!

How do I style my hair for a headshot?

  1. Men’s haircuts should get a haircut 5-7 days before their photo is taken. This allows for the hair to grow back and look more natural without fresh cut lines.
  2. Shaving your head If your daily routine includes shaving your head then continue to do this the day of your session. If you shave your head every few days we recommend not to take headshots with a day of a shaved head. Wait a couple of days.
  3. Clean hair It is best to have freshly clean hair for no more than 2 days without shampoo. Wash your hair like you normally do and use hair products that you use on a daily basis. This includes conditioner and styling products.

Facial hair and headshots for men

Your facial hair should represent how you look on a daily basis

  • If you shave every day continue this and shave the day of your photo session.
  • Know your skin type, and avoid razor burn with proper products.
  • Keep your look groomed and professional.
  • Don’t ignore nose hair, ear hair, or untrimmed eyebrows. This might not be your favorite area to address but it is important
  • Be mindful of the industry or job type you want.
  • Avoid new facial or shaving products that haven’t been used before. You don’t want any surprise reactions right before your headshot session.

How to prepare for a professional headshot session

Preparing mentally for your session is a good idea. Feel confident on the day of the shoot. Know and trust the photographer you hire. Rest, relax, and enjoy your session. Have a plan, don’t rush. Organize your outfits the night before.

  • Relax
  • Avoid alcohol the night before your session
  • Get plenty of rest
  • Exercise
  • Stick to your plan
  • Iron outfit the night before
  • Try on outfits in advance
  • Exercise the day of headshots

What is the best color to wear for a headshot?

  • Plain colors are the best choice.
  • Patterns are too busy and distracting for a headshot photo.
  • Avoid flesh tones, beige, peach, browns, or yellows. As these will blend your face and arms into the outfit.
  • Keep color choices in the mid-tone range.
  • Black and grey are a safe bet.

 Know what your  professional headshots will be used for before the session

  • Business cards
  • Profile photos on LinkedIn or other social media platforms. See LinkedIn headshot examples here.
  • Company website
  • Marketing material
  • Author book cover
  • Keynote speaker or guest speaker at a conference
  • Resume
  • Acting

Knowing in advance what your headshots will be used for is very beneficial to getting the right photo. Ask yourself where you will see my professional headshot. Share this with your photographer to get the best outcome.

In addition, knowing how you will use your headshots will determine:

  • What outfit to choose
  • Which background is best
  • What body length to photograph, 1/2, 3/4 shot, or full body length
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