What Should I Wear For A Professional Headshot?
For a professional headshot, wear clothing that reflects how you want to be seen by clients — typically solid, neutral colors, well-fitted, and styles that are natural to how you work day to day. Avoid busy patterns, visible logos, and anything that distracts from your face.
Why What You Wear Matters in a Headshot
Today, your headshot is often the first impression someone has of you. Before a conversation or a handshake ever happens, people form assumptions based on your expression, posture, and clothing.
Your outfit shouldn’t be the most noticeable thing in the image — you should be. The right clothing supports your presence and reinforces credibility, approachability, or authority, depending on your goals.
Start With How You Want to Be Seen
Before choosing specific clothing, think about the impression you want to make.
Ask yourself:
Do I want to appear more authoritative or more approachable?
More formal or more relaxed?
Conservative, modern, or somewhere in between?
Your clothing should align with how you normally show up when working with clients, not feel like a costume for the camera.
Best Colors to Wear for a Headshot
Solid, muted colors tend to photograph best and keep attention on your face.
Colors that work especially well
Navy
Charcoal or medium gray
Soft blues
Muted greens
Creams and warm neutrals
Colors to be cautious with
Bright or neon colors
Heavy patterns or busy prints
Pure white (can be distracting on camera)
Very dark black without texture
When in doubt, darker neutrals tend to feel polished and timeless.
Now, these are not set in stone rules. I have photographed people wearing paisley. This is part of this persons personal brand so it ties in and makes sense with the rest of his branding.
Fit Is More Important Than Style
Well-fitted clothing always looks better on camera than something that doesn’t fit well.
Choose clothing that feels comfortable standing and sitting
Avoid overly tight or overly loose fits
Make sure clothing is pressed or steamed
If something feels awkward to wear, it will likely show in your expression.
Necklines, Layers, and Structure
Open necklines tend to feel more natural and flattering
Blazers, jackets, or structured layers add polish
Avoid overly high or restrictive collars unless that’s your everyday look
Layers also provide visual variety during a session.
What to Bring to Your Headshot Session
It’s helpful to bring:
2–3 outfit options
A jacket or blazer
Simple accessories you regularly wear
Bring anything that you feel like a million bucks in. Better to have it and not need than…….You know.
Final Thought
A successful headshot isn’t about following rigid fashion rules.
It’s about choosing clothing that supports who you are and how you want to be perceived.
When your wardrobe aligns with your role and personality, the image feels natural, confident, and credible.