what to wear for a real estate headshot | professional headshots vs phone selfies on Zillow

What to Wear for a Real Estate Headshot: A Stylist’s Guide for Realtors

Dress Like the Deal You’re Closing

As a realtor, your headshot isn’t just a photo—it’s a visual representation of your professionalism, confidence, and personal brand. Whether it’s for your Zillow profile, brokerage bio, or marketing materials, how you dress plays a major role in the impression you make.

This guide breaks down what to wear for a real estate headshot with stylist-approved tips designed specifically for agents, brokers, and teams who want to look elevated and trustworthy from the very first glance.


Why Your Outfit Choice Really Matters

You’ve invested in professional photography—don’t let the wrong outfit undermine your results. Real estate is a relationship-based business, and buyers and sellers are drawn to people who look polished, competent, and approachable.

Your wardrobe should reflect the level of service you offer while aligning with your brand identity. Sleek, tailored, and thoughtfully styled? Yes. Distracting patterns or ill-fitting clothing? Absolutely not.


Realtor Wardrobe Dos and Don’ts

✅ DO:

  • Choose solids over busy prints
    Solid colors photograph cleanly and keep the focus on your expression—not your outfit.
  • Stick to jewel tones or muted neutrals
    Deep navy, emerald, ivory, and charcoal gray all read as confident and timeless.
  • Incorporate layers like tailored jackets or soft blazers
    Layers add structure and instantly elevate your look. A well-fitted blazer always photographs beautifully.
  • Choose high-quality, wrinkle-free fabrics
    Avoid sheer materials, loose knits, or shiny polyester blends. Instead, look for cotton sateen, silk blends, ponte, or lightweight wool.
  • Coordinate with your brand colors
    Think about your marketing collateral, signage, or website. Cohesive visual branding goes a long way when your image appears everywhere from Zillow to social media.

❌ DON’T:

  • Wear neon colors or overly saturated tones (they cast unflattering light on your face)
  • Opt for trendy cuts that may look dated in six months
  • Wear statement jewelry that pulls attention away from your eyes
  • Choose clothing that’s too tight or too baggy
  • Forget to iron or steam—wrinkles are not welcome in high-end portraits

Pro Tips for Women Realtors | What to Wear for a Real Estate Headshot

  • Avoid low necklines—go for elegant, tailored tops with structure or a subtle neckline detail
  • Bring two to three outfits to capture both classic and modern looks
  • Try a monochromatic look for a minimalist, high-impact result
  • Consider adding a silk scarf or a classic watch for a hint of personality without distraction

Pro Tips for Men Realtors | What to Wear for a Real Estate Headshot

  • Blazers or suit jackets elevate almost any headshot
  • Solid button-downs in light blue, charcoal, or white work well under any light
  • Avoid large logos or branded polos (unless part of a team identity)
  • Fresh grooming is key—get a haircut a few days before, and avoid last-minute shaves that can cause irritation

What We Recommend in Our Studio

At Zesty Orange Photography, we guide our real estate clients through every part of their session—including wardrobe. During your pre-session consultation, we help you select pieces that align with your brand and ensure they translate beautifully on camera.

Whether you’re aiming for a high-powered executive look or a more approachable, lifestyle vibe, we’ll help you create it—with room for multiple outfits and professional hair and makeup included.


Your Headshot Should Match the Homes You Sell

If you sell luxury homes, you should look like a luxury professional. If you specialize in family-focused neighborhoods, your headshot should reflect warmth and trust. It’s not just about looking good—it’s about communicating who you are and what you offer.

Still wondering why What to Wear for a Real Estate Headshot matters so much? The National Association of Realtors agrees: your visual image directly impacts your ability to attract new clients.

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Attention Austin professionals and entrepreneurs! Whether you’re building your personal brand or updating your headshots, a professional branding session is an essential investment in telling your story.

As your Austin-based branding photographer, I invite you to elevate your online presence with a session tailored to your goals.

These photos will be more than just headshots—they’ll be versatile tools that showcase your confidence, expertise, and unique personality.

Schedule a consultation with me, and let’s create impactful images that represent you and your brand authentically.

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