Stepping in front of the camera can feel a bit overwhelming, especially if it’s been a while since your last professional photoshoot—or if this is your very first one. But here’s the truth: with a little preparation, headshot sessions can be a breeze. The right planning helps you not only look but also feel your best, which is the secret ingredient to capturing stunning photos. Whether you’re getting a headshot for your LinkedIn profile, website, or personal branding, these tips will help you walk into your session confident, camera-ready, and excited for amazing results.
Your outfit is a big part of your look, so take the time to choose wisely. Stick to solid colors rather than patterns—they’re less distracting and maintain the focus on your face. Neutral tones, jewel colors like emerald green or navy, and muted shades work beautifully on camera, creating a polished, timeless look. Avoid bright whites, loud prints, or neon colors, as they can reflect harshly under studio lights or clash with your backdrop.
Still worried about deciding? Bring a few different wardrobe options to your session! This gives your photographer the flexibility to match your outfit with the background or mood of the shoot. Well-tailored, ironed clothes are essential, and it’s worth paying attention to little details, like accessorizing to add a personal touch or layering blazers and jackets for a professional edge.
Remember to select an outfit that aligns with your goals for the session. Are you showcasing your executive presence for a corporate role? Or going for an approachable business casual vibe? Your clothing should reflect the story you want your headshot to tell.
The best beauty secret isn’t found in expensive products—it’s simply a good night’s sleep. Getting seven to eight hours of solid rest the night before your shoot will leave you refreshed, energetic, and ready to face the camera. Lack of sleep often shows up in puffy eyes, dull skin, and an irritable mood, none of which do you any favors on camera.
Create a relaxing evening routine—dim the lights, put your screens away, and wind down with calming activities like reading or meditating. The better you sleep, the brighter and more confident you’ll look on shoot day.
Staying hydrated does wonders for your skin, and hydrated skin photographs beautifully. Make it a priority to drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your session and continue your skincare routine with a focus on moisture. Use a lightweight moisturizer to keep your skin smooth and glowing, and don’t forget about your lips—a moisturizing lip balm ensures you avoid dryness or cracking during the shoot.
If you shave or wax as part of your grooming routine, allow for enough time before your session to avoid redness, irritation, or bumps in your photos.
When it comes to hair and makeup, less is often more. If you’re opting for professional styling before your shoot, communicate with your stylist about keeping the look natural, polished, and reflective of your usual style.
For makeup, aim for a lightweight base, some blush to add warmth, and subtle details like eyeliner or mascara to highlight your features. Avoid heavy makeup that can appear overly dramatic under photography lights—headshots are about looking like you. For hair, ensure it’s neatly styled and aligns with how you typically look when you feel most confident.
Posture defines how you hold yourself and communicates confidence. During a headshot session, slouchy shoulders or a stiff neck can detract from your best look. Practice good posture by sitting or standing tall, rolling your shoulders back, and elongating your neck. You don’t have to go overboard—focus on keeping your body relaxed yet poised.
A simple trick is imagining a string gently pulling upwards from the top of your head—it helps align your posture without making you feel rigid. When paired with natural hand placement and a little movement during the shoot, good posture brings a graceful and confident energy to your photos.
Not everyone feels comfortable in front of the camera, and that’s okay! If you tend to feel stiff or awkward, spend a few minutes practicing your facial expressions in the mirror. Try a range of smiles—from a soft, closed-lip smile to a full one showing teeth—and see which feels most genuine. Experiment with subtle head tilts, and notice how angles enhance different features of your face.
Visualization is another great technique for managing nerves. Imagine yourself on set, interacting with your photographer, and enjoying the process. Many photographers are skilled at putting their clients at ease, offering gentle guidance on poses and expressions to make you look natural.
If you still feel anxious, communicate with your photographer—they can help set the tone and adjust their approach to match your comfort level.
We at Photography Shark Studios know how to light our subjects properly, but having some understanding of lighting can help you prepare too! Natural light or studio setups soften your skin tones and create flattering shadows, so don’t panic about “bad angles.” If you’re shooting outdoors or during golden hour (early morning or before sunset), it’s a great opportunity for a warm, natural aesthetic.
To make the most of lighting, avoid shiny products like overly dewy makeup or oily sunscreens, as they may reflect light in ways you don’t want. Matte finishes will help keep your look balanced under the flashes.
Don’t underestimate the power of your mindset! A headshot captures more than just your face—it reflects your confidence and energy. Arrive to your session in a positive mood, listen to your favorite music on the way, and remember that the session is an investment in you. If any nerves meet you on shoot day, take a few deep breaths and remind yourself that this is your moment to shine. Trust the process, and trust that your photographer has your back.
A successful headshot starts with clarity. Share your goals, industry, style preferences, and any must-have shots with us ahead of time. Clear communication ensures that your final images match the vibe you’re aiming for, whether it’s professional, creative, warm, or approachable.
Are you ready to capture your best self? Contact us today to book your headshot session or ask any questions—we’re always here to help you shine! Your perfect first impression starts with a simple step. See out headshot pricing page and book with us today!