What to Wear for Your Headshot Session (So You Actually Love the Photos)
Getting ready for a headshot session brings up a lot of questions, and the most common one I hear is some version of "I have no idea what to wear." You're not alone in that. It's actually one of the most important decisions you'll make before your session, because what you wear directly affects how you feel in front of the camera — and how you feel shows up in every single image.
I always tell my clients that I want them to love their images not just now, but in 5 years, 10 years, 20 years. That means we're not chasing trends. We're going for timeless, polished, and authentically you. And that starts with what you put on before you ever walk through my door.
So let's talk about it.
First, Know Your Background
In my Columbia, SC studio, I shoot against a dark grey backdrop. It's clean, it's classic, and it photographs beautifully — but it does mean there are a few colors you'll want to avoid. Mainly light grey because it will cause you to blend right into the background, and we lose all that definition around your shoulders and face. Try to keep white to a minimum. Our eye naturally goes to the brightest part of an image and we want people looking at your genuine expression, not distracted by a solid white shirt.
What works really well? Navy, deep teal, emerald, dusty mauve, jewel tones, cream, and soft blush. These colors pop against the grey and photograph with a richness that just looks elevated.
Solid Colors Over Patterns
I know that bold printed blouse is cute in real life. But on camera, busy patterns and small prints create visual noise that pulls the eye away from you — and your face is what we're here for. Solid, medium-toned colors read beautifully on camera and keep the focus exactly where it should be.
Neon shades and overly bright colors can also cause issues with lighting, so when in doubt, go with something classic. A jewel tone like burgundy, forest green, or cobalt will photograph richly and look just as good a decade from now as it does today.
Fit Matters More Than You Think
Well-fitting clothing looks intentional on camera. You don't need to wear something fancy — you just need to wear something that fits well and makes you feel confident. Clothes that pull, gap, or droop will be distracting in photos in a way they might not be in everyday life.
Iron or steam everything. Wrinkles show up way more on camera than they do in real life, and it's one of those small things that makes a big difference.
Hair and Makeup — Be a Polished Version of Yourself
Your headshot should look like you on your best day, not like a completely different person. The goal isn't a dramatic transformation — it's confidence. Matte finishes photograph better than dewy or overly glossy, and bringing a few touch-up essentials (powder, lip color, whatever you normally use) to your session is always a good idea.
If you want professional hair and makeup before your session, I'm happy to point you in the right direction — just ask when you book.
My Best Tip: Bring Options
I always recommend bringing two or three outfit options to your session. Once you're in the studio and we've looked at the light, sometimes a color you weren't sure about ends up being the standout choice — and sometimes the one you were most excited about isn't quite right once it's on camera. Having options takes the pressure off and gives us flexibility to get the best possible images for you.
Ready to Book?
If you've been putting off updating your headshot, let this be your nudge. A great headshot is one of the best investments you can make in yourself — and I promise the process is a lot less intimidating than you think. I'll walk you through everything, including exactly what to wear, before you ever show up to your session.
Book your Columbia, SC headshot session here →