Professional Corporate Headshot Clothing Guide

I get this question all the time. The important thing to know is that I guarantee you have something in your closet that will look great. It’s really not about picking the perfect outfit, it’s more about avoiding the wrong look. Your professional corporate headshot needs to be something that you love and can use for years. Don’t forget to take a look at our Headshot Retouching and Headshot Cropping guides as well.

7 Clothing Tips for a Professional Corporate Headshot

1. Wear solid colors
Opt for clothing in solid, neutral colors such as black, navy, or gray. These colors tend to be more professional and will not distract from your face in the photo.

2. Avoid patterns
Patterns and busy prints can be distracting in a headshot, so it’s best to avoid them. If you do choose to wear a patterned item, make sure it is small and subtle.

3. Dress appropriately for your industry
Consider the industry or profession you are in and dress accordingly. For example, if you are in a creative field, you may have more flexibility with your clothing choices. If you are in a more traditional industry, it may be best to stick to more classic, professional attire.

4. Choose well-fitting clothing
Make sure your clothing fits well and is not too tight or too loose. Ill-fitting clothing can be distracting and take attention away from your face.

5. Wear simple accessories
If you choose to wear accessories, keep them simple and minimal. A watch, a pair of earrings, or a simple necklace can add a nice touch to your headshot, but avoid wearing multiple loud or busy pieces.

6. Keep your hair and makeup natural
Only you know what’s “natural” for you. Concealer is your friend. Sunscreen is not (it’s shiny under the lights).

7. Dress for the occasion
Consider the purpose of the headshot and dress appropriately. If you are taking a headshot for a professional website or LinkedIn profile, you may want to dress more formally. If you are taking a headshot for a more casual event or social media, you may have more flexibility with your clothing choices.

In the end, you want your headshot to say something. It’s your first impression. Is it for a dating sight? Dress like a first date. Are you a in sales? Dress like someone I would be happy to take a meeting with. For example, in my headshots I typically just wear a faded, button-down shirt because I want to convey a casual, friendly person; a friend. I try to convey my personality in my headshot because people tend to like a photographer who is open and friendly since they are usually a little nervous to begin with.