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What to wear for professional headshots?
When it comes to corporate portraits, what you wear isn’t just about looking good—it’s about telling your story.
Your outfit reflects your personality, professionalism, and how you want to come across to others. Whether the photos are for LinkedIn, your company’s website, or even a magazine article, nailing your look is key to making the right impression.
Let’s start with the basics: your outfit should align with your industry and personal style. If you work in a formal corporate setting, a classic suit or blazer with a tailored shirt is a great choice. On the other hand, if you’re in a more creative field, you can show a bit more personality while keeping things polished. Think of your outfit as part of your personal brand—it should feel authentic but still fit the vibe of your profession.
Comfort is just as important as style. If you’re tugging at your shirt or adjusting a stiff jacket the entire time, it’ll show in the photos. Pick clothes that fit well and let you move naturally. When you feel comfortable, you look more confident—and confidence makes all the difference in a portrait.
When it comes to colors, neutral tones are your best bet. Shades like navy, grey, black, or white are timeless and won’t distract from your face. Mid-tone colors—like soft blues or earthy tones—also photograph beautifully and translate well into black-and-white if needed. If you’re someone who wears a lot of black, consider swapping it for a rich navy or deep green for a slightly softer look.
On the flip side, it’s best to avoid pastels or beige—they can wash you out, especially under studio lights. Also, steer clear of busy patterns or bold prints. They can be distracting and might not photograph well. If you want a touch of pattern, go for something subtle and understated.
Accessories can make or break a look, so keep it simple. A watch, a small necklace, or understated earrings can enhance your outfit without drawing attention away from your face. Avoid anything too big or noisy—those statement earrings or chunky bracelets are better saved for another occasion.
For women, it’s a good idea to avoid sleeveless tops, as bare arms can draw attention away from your face. A blouse with sleeves or a tailored jacket is always a safe and flattering choice. For men, ensure your shirt collar is crisp and fits well—no sagging or overly tight collars, please!
Grooming also plays a huge role. Make sure your clothes are clean, pressed, and wrinkle-free. Do your hair in a way that feels natural to you, but ensure it’s tidy. If you wear makeup, keep it minimal and matte to avoid shiny spots under the lights. Guys, this goes for you too—beards should be trimmed, and if you’re clean-shaven, aim for a fresh shave.
Before the day of your shoot, it’s always a good idea to test your outfit. Put it on, sit down, stand up, and move around to see how it feels and looks from all angles. Take a quick photo on your phone to check how it reads on camera—you might notice something you want to adjust.
Finally, think about what the photo is for. Is it going on your company’s “About Us” page? Is it for a personal brand campaign? Knowing where the photo will be used can help you decide how formal or relaxed your outfit should be. And if in doubt, bring a backup outfit to the shoot—you never know when a coffee spill or unexpected wrinkle might happen!
At the end of the day, the goal is to look like you—your best, most professional, and most confident self. Your corporate portrait is more than just a headshot; it’s a tool for building connections and showcasing your personality. So, choose your outfit wisely, and let’s create an image that truly represents who you are!
Fabi x
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