Choosing the right clothing for a headshot photo session is essential as it can significantly impact the final results. Here are some guidelines on what to wear and what to avoid:

What to Wear

  1. Solid Colors: Solid colors work best for headshots as they draw attention to your face and prevent distractions. Neutral colors like white, black, gray, and navy are classic options. Pastel shades and soft colors can also work well.
  2. Simple and Timeless Styles: Opt for clothing with clean lines and classic styles that won't go out of fashion quickly. Avoid trendy patterns or graphics that may date the image.
  3. Well-Fitted Clothing: Ensure your clothes fit well and flatter your body shape. Avoid overly baggy or tight-fitting outfits that can distort your proportions.
  4. Collared Shirts and Blouses: Collared shirts and blouses often look professional and can work well for a headshot, especially for business and corporate purposes.
  5. Layers and Textures: Consider adding subtle layers or textures to your outfit to add visual interest without being distracting.
  6. Accessories: Simple and minimal accessories can complement your outfit, but avoid anything too flashy or large that could divert attention from your face.
  7. Consider Your Branding: If you're using the headshot for a specific purpose, such as branding or acting, choose outfits that align with the image you want to portray.


Clothing & Colors to Avoid

  1. Busy Patterns: Avoid wearing clothing with busy patterns, as they can be visually overwhelming and take attention away from your face.
  2. Bright and Neon Colors: Extremely bright or neon colors can reflect onto your face and alter your skin tones in the photograph.
  3. Large Logos or Branding: Steer clear of clothing with large logos or brand names, as they can be distracting and may not align with the purpose of the headshot.
  4. Sleeveless Tops: Sleeveless tops can draw attention to the arms, which may not be ideal for a headshot focused on your face.
  5. Very High-Contrast Outfits: Avoid outfits with extremely high contrast, such as stark white tops and dark black bottoms, as they can create distracting visual imbalances.
  6. Shiny or Reflective Materials: Clothes with shiny or reflective materials may catch the light and create unwanted glare in the photograph.


Ultimately, the goal is to choose clothing that complements your appearance and doesn't take attention away from your face. When in doubt, it's best to bring a few different outfit options to the photo session and consult with the photographer to decide on the most suitable attire for the desired look and purpose of the headshots.