Men: How to Prepare for Your Headshot
Headshot tip: Think about how your headshot will be used and what type of business you’re representing.
For a very nominal investment in a headshot that will last years, you have the chance to give a great first impression to your prospects and colleagues.
SET THE THEME FOR YOUR HEADSHOT
If you are getting a headshot through your company, please follow your company’s dress code or required brand guidelines.
If you are getting an individual headhsot, here are a few questions to ask yourself before getting your headshot done professionally:
What kind of business do I run? Is this a suit-and-tie approach, medical lab coat job, or a casual vibe?
What is the industry standard? Modern or traditional? Do I want to follow it or break a stereotype?
What do I want my clients or customers to perceive when they see me?
Do I want an outdoor or indoor shot? (It’s possible to do both.) Also consider the option of having the session done at your offices.
My goal as a photographer is to convey your confidence, energy, approachability, and competence. Based on the questions above, how I light and stage your headshot will partly depend on your personal brand.
HOW TO DRESS FOR YOUR HEADSHOT
First, choose and try on an outfit at least a week in advance. Make sure it fits well, with enough time to spare to get a new outfit in case you need one
Try on your jacket and shirt to ensure a good fit and that the sleeves aren’t too long.
Make sure the collar is also sized appropriately. Too-tight collars can “squeeze” your neck and create unflattering skin folds.
Most headshots are taken from the shoulders-up but if you need a full-body shot, please be sure to wear appropriate dress shoes and socks (no white socks with dress slacks, please!).
Avoid overly busy patterns or large lines/stripes. The photo example on the right is an acceptable pattern — it’s classy but not too busy. Less is more as busy patterns can distract from the face, unless your focus is on your style.
Iron and lint-roll your clothes. Consider getting your shirt pressed by a professional. Wrinkles and weird folds that result from a less crisp collar may result in an extra retouching expense at the photographer’s discretion.
Men’s headshot Outfit suggestions
Image credit: Connectteam.com
For a professional look: Go for a classic style (suit up!). A suit in grey, navy, or black that fits well and doesn’t bunch up when you button it or sit down is a winner. Choose a button-down shirt and tie to complement your suit colors.
For a casual look: Consider your profession and how you normally dress. Do you wear a branded polo to work? Are you a personal trainer and wear workout clothes? Think about what you usually wear to work and make sure it is clean and wrinkle-free for your photography session.
For an in-between look: Try a button-down shirt without a tie or a white or black v-neck shirt under a sports coat with dark, dressier jeans. You can always take the coat off during your session for a more casual look.
Looking for outfit ideas for your headshot? Here are some examples on Pinterest.
Miscellaneous Headshot Tips for Men
To shave or not to shave? This is 100% up to you and your personal brand. If you have been rocking the beard or handlebar ‘stache, rock it. But skip the work-from-home stubble and use a razor to get a close shave.
Haircut: Make sure your hair has been cut recently. I recommend getting it cut 3-4 days in advance of a shoot is best. If your barber is generous with the clippers, a few days will allow for time for your hair to grow out.
Consider Teeth-Whitening: Are you a heavy coffee or tea drinker? I’d recommend whitening strips or a tray a few weeks before your session to neutralize any yellow stains. No time? We’ll handle the whitening in editing.
Avoid the Sun: Sunburned faces and peeling skin are a dealbreaker for your session and could result in a rescheduling fee. Slather on the sun
Moisturize in the A.M.: The morning of your shoot, make sure you’ve used a little bit of moisturizer on your face. While we don’t want shine or sheen, dry skin can make you look flat.
Hydrate and Apply Chapstick: Chapped, dry lips may result in an upcharge for intensive editing, so keep chapped lips from cracking and drying out by applying a natural lip balm. Drink plenty of water the day before and the day of.
Be a Willing Participant: On the day of your session, we’ll work through a few poses. Go into your session with an open mind and a willing spirit. I realize most men don’t love to get their photos taken, so I promise your “torture session” will go faster than expected.
Pick a Song, Any Song: Send me your Spotify playlist or tell me your favorite genre, artists, etc. A headshot is meant to be professional, but I aim to make your session relaxed and fun.
Hydrate well the day before and the morning of. If you drink caffeine, consider doubling your hydration intake with a sugar-free drink.
Sleep well the night before.
