Top Tips To Prep For Your Upcoming Headshots

Top tips for prepping for your headshot, as told from me, your photographer.  The thought of having your photo taken by a professional photographer can be stressful and fearful. However,  your headshot experience can actually be a fun and rewarding time in your personal and professional development.  I’ve come up with some tips for you to make sure your next headshot session is seamless and enjoyable.

  1. Pamper Your Skin and Stay Hydrated!

As a headshot photographer, I understand the importance of having well-pampered skin for your photo session. Hydrated skin plays a vital role in enhancing your overall appearance in headshots. It has a transformative effect, making your skin look healthier, more radiant, and less dull. By keeping your skin properly hydrated, you can minimize the visibility of fine lines, wrinkles, and dry patches, ensuring a flawless and captivating headshot.

Not only does hydration benefit your skin, but it also contributes to the health and appearance of your eyes in your headshots. Dry eyes can be bothersome and can even appear red or bloodshot in photos, detracting from your overall look. By maintaining proper hydration levels, you can alleviate discomfort and minimize the risk of eye redness during your headshot session. This ensures that your eyes will appear bright, clear, and captivating in your photos, enhancing your overall expression and creating a striking visual impact.

To prepare your skin for a successful headshot session, I recommend starting the process at least five days in advance. It’s important to make simple lifestyle choices that promote hydration and overall skin health. Avoiding alcohol, opting for water over fizzy sugary drinks, and steering clear of dairy products can work wonders in making your skin appear youthful, refreshed, and vibrant.

While pampering your skin, you may also consider getting a facial, provided it is already a part of your regular skincare routine. A facial can further enhance the health and appearance of your skin, but it is crucial to ensure that you are familiar with the facial treatment and have experienced positive results from it in the past.

By prioritizing hydration, making mindful choices, and considering additional skincare treatments within your routine, you will be able to showcase your best self in your headshots. Remember, investing in the care of your skin will not only enhance your visual appeal but also boost your confidence, allowing your personality to shine through in every capture.

2. Dress comfortably and confidently

Your choice of attire can greatly influence how you feel and project yourself during the shoot. Here are some recommendations to ensure you dress appropriately and exude confidence in your headshots:

  1. Opt for comfort and fit: Choose clothing items that make you feel at ease and confident. Select outfits that fit well and flatter your body shape. When you’re comfortable in your attire, it positively impacts your mindset, allowing you to relax and be more natural in front of the camera.
  2. Dress for the occasion: Consider the purpose and context of the headshot session when selecting your outfits. Dress appropriately for the industry or purpose the headshots will be used for. For professional settings, opt for polished and well-tailored attire. If it’s a more casual or creative environment, you can express your personal style while still maintaining a polished appearance.
  3. Avoid distracting elements: To ensure the focus remains on you, avoid wearing clothing with distracting patterns, logos, or busy prints. These elements can detract from your face and overall presence in the headshot. Opt for solid colors or subtle textures that complement your skin tone and help draw attention to your facial features.
  4. Take care of wrinkles and creases: On the day of the session, make sure your clothes are wrinkle-free and neatly pressed. Wrinkles and creases can be distracting in the final headshots. Consider bringing a steamer or iron to touch up your outfits before the shoot.
  5. Layering options: Bringing additional clothing options like jackets, sweaters, or accessories that can be layered or interchanged during the session can provide versatility to your headshots. This allows you to create different looks without having to change outfits entirely. Experiment with different combinations to see what works best for you.
  6. Solid color tops with a blazer: One pro tip that often works well is pairing a solid color top that complements your skin tone with a well-fitted blazer. This combination adds a touch of professionalism and sophistication to your headshots, while the solid color keeps the focus on your face.

Remember, it’s essential to try on your clothing options beforehand and assess how you look and feel in the mirror. This way, you can ensure that you’re comfortable, confident, and satisfied with your chosen outfits for the headshot session!

3. Get Plenty Of Rest

Here’s why prioritizing rest is crucial for preparing for your headshot session:

  1. Refreshed appearance: Lack of sleep can result in the appearance of dark circles, puffiness, and tired-looking eyes. These factors can negatively affect your overall appearance in the headshots. By ensuring you get enough rest, you allow your body time to rejuvenate and reduce any signs of fatigue, leading to a more refreshed and vibrant look.
  2. Skin health and complexion: Sleep plays a vital role in the health and rejuvenation of your skin. During sleep, your body undergoes a process of repair and regeneration, including the regeneration of skin cells. Sufficient rest promotes a healthy complexion, as your skin has the opportunity to replenish and restore itself. This can result in a more radiant and glowing appearance in your headshots.
  3. Energy and mood improvement: A good night’s sleep is essential for improving energy levels and mood. When you are well-rested, you are more likely to feel energized, positive, and confident. This positive mindset can shine through in your headshot session, allowing you to exude an engaging and confident presence. Being well-rested can also contribute to a more relaxed and natural expression, enhancing the overall quality of your headshots.

To ensure you get plenty of rest before your headshot session, prioritize a consistent sleep schedule in the days leading up to the shoot. Aim for the recommended 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine, such as avoiding stimulating activities before bed, creating a calm sleep environment, and practicing relaxation techniques if needed.

4. Fake It Til’ You Make It!

I understand that many people may feel apprehensive about having their photos taken. Taking the time to prepare for your headshot session ensures that you look and feel your best. By following the tips provided, such as pampering your skin, dressing comfortably and confidently, and getting plenty of rest, you are setting yourself up for success.  These steps will enhance your physical appearance, boost your confidence, and create a positive mindset before stepping in front of the camera. As your photographer, I will guide you throughout the entire process. I have experience in capturing individuals at their best and highlighting their unique qualities. I will provide clear direction and offer suggestions to help you pose and present yourself in a way that suits your personality and desired outcome. Trust in my expertise and know that I am here to ensure you have a positive and enjoyable experience.

Embrace the opportunity to showcase your best self and let your headshot become a powerful tool that represents your unique qualities and accomplishments!