WHAT TO WEAR FOR YOUR HEADSHOTS
Are you scheduled for a headshots? Great job for investing in YOU! One of my deepest beliefs is that everyone has something special to offer this world, WE ALL have a special uniqueness and finding the courage to shine that light on the world is exhilarating!
One of the most common questions I get is “What do I wear for my headshots?”. I’m happy to provide some guidance to help you feel and look your best.
Color:
Think about the times when your friends tell you “You look amazing today“. It’s usually because you’re wearing a color that’s great for your skin tone. Solid colors look best for headshots as they do not compete with your face. I also advise avoiding wearing skin tone colors (ivory, cream, peach, beige, etc.) because those colors will blend in with your skin. Also, avoid neon colors. If you’re really wanting me to pick a color for you, I’d recommend a jewel tone. They look good with most skin tones. If you really love black but want something with more pop, consider chocolate, navy, maroon and forest green. A fail-safe tip is to choose a color that accentuates your eyes. If you have green eyes, go for that mossy green shirt.
While there are no strict rules about what colors individuals should wear for headshots, certain considerations can help guide your choices based on factors like skin tone, eye color, and hair color. Here’s a general guide for selecting colors based on these factors:
1. Warm Skin Tones:
– Best Colors:* Earth tones such as warm browns, yellows, oranges, and olive greens can complement warm skin tones.
– *Avoid:* Extremely bright or cool colors like neon pinks or blues, as they may clash with the warmth in the skin.
2. Cool Skin Tones:
– *Best Colors:* Cool blues, greens, purples, and jewel tones tend to work well with cool skin tones.
– *Avoid:* Overly warm or yellow-toned colors, as they may make the skin appear sallow.
3. Neutral Skin Tones:
– *Versatility:* Individuals with neutral skin tones have the flexibility to wear both warm and cool colors. Rich and muted tones often work well.
4. Dark Skin Tones:
– Best Colors: Bold and vibrant colors like deep blues, purples, and rich greens can look striking against dark skin tones. Jewel tones can be particularly flattering.
– *Avoid:* Colors that are too muted or washed out, as they might not provide enough contrast.
5. Fair Skin Tones:
– Best Colors: Soft pastels, cool blues, and light neutrals can complement fair skin tones without overwhelming them.
– *Avoid:* Extremely bright or intense colors, as they may wash out fair skin.
6. Red Hair:
– Best Colors: Earthy tones like greens and browns can complement red hair. Rich blues and purples can also be flattering.
– *Avoid:* Colors that clash with the red tones in the hair, such as oranges or certain shades of red.
7. Blonde Hair:
– Best Colors: Soft pastels, cool blues, and light neutrals can complement blonde hair. Warmer tones like peach or light coral can also work.
– *Avoid:* Colors that are too similar to the hair color, as they might blend in rather than provide contrast.
8. Brunette/Black Hair:
– Best Colors: Rich and deep tones like jewel tones, deep greens, purples, and blues can be striking against dark hair.
– *Avoid:* Colors that are too close to the natural hair color, as they may not provide enough contrast.
Remember that these are general guidelines, and personal preferences play a significant role. It’s always a good idea to bring a variety of clothing options to your headshot session, and your photographer can help you decide what looks best based on the lighting and background of the shoot.
Texture:
Rich textures lend a rich, tactile element to your images. High-contrast patterns or prints are distracting. Logos and graphics are definite “no’s” We want YOU to shine in your photos, not your clothing.
Necklines and Sleeves:
Different styles of top neck lines evoke certain moods. Off-the-shoulder and sweetheart necklines evoke vulnerability while square and high neck tops denote power. For sleeve lengths, if arms are a concern, go with a 3/4 length or longer.
Jewelry and Accessories:
Choose simple earrings and necklaces. Strong and bulky items will compete with your face. Also, some accessories can become dated quickly as styles change. An exception to this is if you’re in the creative field and want your personal style to shine and if you regularly get headshots taken. Costume jewelry fads change often and I want your photos to be timeless.
Fitted or Not?
Always keep your jackets and cardigans fitted. I’ll bring clamps to keep everything snug but not tight.
I hope this helped you decide about your wardrobe. If you’re still undecided, please bring a few options with you to your photo shoot and your photographer can put together a great outfit for you. Many of my clients bring five different tops and a selections of jewelry, and we piece together the ones that work best.
Still not convinced that you need a headshot? Read this article and give me a call!