Essential Headshot Tips for Women
As a professional photographer specializing in women professional headshots, I capture many business headshots annually. I’ve gathered valuable insights into what works best in front of the camera. To streamline your preparation for a headshot or portrait session, I’ve developed these tailored tips to help women look and feel their best. These guidelines will ensure your women’s professional headshot experience is smooth, enjoyable, and results in stunning photos.
What to Wear for Your Headshot Session
The most common question I get is, “What should I wear for my headshot photos?” Here’s a detailed list of recommendations to help you make the best outfit choices for your female professional headshot:
Solid Color Tops: Avoid extensive patterns and decorations, as they can distract from your face. The focus should be on you, not your outfit.
Well-Fitted & Tailored Clothes: Loose clothing can make you appear larger. Choose tops that are well-tailored to flatter your figure and present a professional image.
Avoid Low Cut Tops: Headshots typically frame your chest area. Low-cut tops can divert attention from your face, which is the focal point.
Long Sleeves are Flattering: Short sleeves can sit awkwardly on your arms and show skin at the edges, which may distract from your face. Long sleeves create a more polished look.
Proper Undergarments: Ensure bra straps are hidden. Visible straps look unprofessional in women’s headshots.
Avoid Transparent Tops: Test your tops by trying them on. If you can see your undergarments through the shirt, it’s best to choose another or layer with a blazer.
Vibrant Colors Stand Out: Depending on your profession, vibrant colors can make your women’s professional headshot pop.
Darker Tops Can Be Timeless: Besides black, navy is particularly flattering and timeless in photos.
Avoid Tops That Blend with Hair Color: Dark tops blend too much with dark hair, and pale tops can wash out pale skin unless layered appropriately.
Avoid Distracting Jewelry: Jewelry can draw attention away from your face. Keep your look clean, simple, and timeless by skipping the accessories.
When you book with our studio, you don’t need to worry about making outfit choices on your own. We provide wardrobe consultation and help with every session, ensuring you choose the perfect attire for your headshot.
Hairstyles for Headshots
Your hairstyle can significantly impact your female professional headshot. Here are some key tips for styling your hair:
Manage Flyaways: Use hairspray to tame flyaways. We have hair spray available at the studio, and any stray hairs can be retouched during editing.
Timing for Haircuts and Color: Schedule haircuts or color treatments about a week before your session. This allows your hair to look its best.
Stick to Your Usual Style: Avoid trying a new hairstyle on the day of your session. You should look like the best version of yourself, not someone unrecognizable.
Consider Tying Your Hair Up: Tied-back hair can slim your face and neck, highlighting your facial features.
Moderate Curling: A bit of curl can add volume, but don’t overdo it. Your headshot should resemble your everyday look.
Day-of Blowouts: If you opt for a blowout, schedule it for the same day as your session. Note that we don’t offer blowouts in the studio.
Clean Hair: If you’re not getting a blowout, wash your hair the day before and use anti-frizz products as needed.
Short Hair: For women with short hair, ensure it’s styled neatly and freshly trimmed if needed. Short hairstyles can be very striking in professional headshots for women.
Curly Hair: Embrace your natural curls, but ensure they’re well-defined and frizz-free. Use products that enhance your curl pattern without making hair look crunchy.
Straight Hair: Make sure it’s smooth and frizz-free. A sleek, straight look can convey a polished, professional image.
Updos and Ponytails: An elegant updo or a sleek ponytail can be very flattering and professional, especially for a headshot professional woman.
Makeup Tips for Headshots
Makeup plays a crucial role in your headshot. Here’s how to ensure it enhances your look:
Hire a Professional Makeup Artist: A professional knows how to apply makeup that looks great on camera.
Keep it Natural: Makeup should enhance your features without looking overdone. Choose colors close to your natural complexion.
Avoid Highlighters: Highlighting can create unwanted shine if not applied correctly.
Pre-Session Prep: On the day of your session, avoid applying any products like sunscreen. Stick to oil-free moisturizer and eye cream.
Easy on the Powder: High-resolution cameras pick up every detail. Too much powder can look unflattering, so let us handle any necessary retouching.
Foundation: Choose a foundation that matches your skin tone perfectly. It should provide enough coverage to even out your complexion but still look natural.
Eyes: Define your eyes with neutral shades. Avoid overly dramatic looks unless it suits your profession.
Lips: A neutral or slightly bold lip color can enhance your features without being too distracting. Avoid overly glossy finishes.
Brows: Well-groomed brows frame your face. Fill them in naturally to enhance your look.
When you book with our studio, you don’t need to worry about hair and makeup for your headshots. We provide professional hair styling and makeup services with every session, ensuring you look your absolute best for your headshot.
Women Professional Headshots | Skin and Beauty Tips
The week leading up to your headshot session is crucial for skincare. Follow these tips for a radiant look:
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
Wax in Advance: Schedule waxing appointments a week before your session to avoid redness and irritation.
Treat Yourself to a Facial: A facial a week before your session can make your skin glow. Allow a few days for your skin to recover fully.
Exfoliate: Exfoliate a few days before your headshot to avoid redness.
Moisturize: Ensure your skin is well-moisturized, especially in the week leading up to your session. Consider a hydrating mask for extra nourishment.
Rest: Get plenty of sleep the night before your headshot to look rested and energized.
Avoid Self Tanner: Self-tanners can often look unnatural and may not photograph well. To avoid any streaks or uneven skin tone, it’s best to skip the self-tanner leading up to your session.
Night Before the Shoot: Avoid trying new skincare products the night before your session to prevent any unexpected reactions. Stick to your usual routine, focusing on hydration and gentle care.
A professional headshot is an essential tool in making a strong first impression. Whether you’re aiming for a female professional headshot, a women’s professional headshots, or a professional headshot for women, these guidelines will help you look and feel your best. By focusing on the right wardrobe, hairstyle, and makeup, and by following our skincare tips, you can ensure that your headshot exudes confidence, professionalism, and authenticity.
At our studio, we aim to make the process seamless and stress-free. With our professional hair and makeup services and personalized wardrobe consultation included in every session, you don’t need to worry about the details. Our expertise and experience in capturing professional headshots for women ensure that you will receive a polished and impactful photo that truly represents you.
Investing in a high-quality headshot is a step towards enhancing your professional image and opening up new opportunities. Book your session with us today, and let us help you create a headshot that you’ll be proud to share with the world.
