Cleveland Head Shot Photographer - Head Shot Tip: Dress Smartly!

This should really go without saying, but when it comes to your head shot, you need to be smart about how you dress. Now, I’m not saying that you need to go over the top or be somebody you’re not, but it’s important to be mindful of how you present yourself.

For a while, there had been a movement going around that basically said “don’t dress to impress, dress to be you”. I understand how and why this became a popular way to go, but I feel it went just a little too far with a lot of people. For many, it ended up being an excuse to have a lazy attitude toward their personal appearance and/or to be a little rebellious against what they felt was corporate America.

I’m definitely not saying that everyone needs to wear a suite and tie for their head shot, as there are always exceptions to the rules… but you definitely want to make sure that you represent yourself in a manner that will not turn people away when viewing your head shot or profile pic. While you might have a lot of latitude in regards to a personal social media page, considerations should be made for your professional head shot or business profile… especially if you’re looking for a new job or wanting to work with new clients.

The outfit you choose for your professional head shot, should be an appropriate choice or a good representation for what you do or for the preferred impression you’re trying to make. A suit and tie are great options for some, but not for everyone. People that work in industrial service positions, manufacturing or certain sales jobs can totally benefit from wearing a blazer, nice polo shirt or “dressier” pullover. 

We offer some great tips to prepare for your head shot session on our Head Shot Info page, but below are a few helpful suggestions on wardrobe to get you moving in the right direction…

Choose clothing options that are somewhat stylish, but be careful with items that might be a little too trendy and that will look outdated in a year. Clean, simple and time tested looks are always good options. 

Always try and wear clothing items that fit well. Having something like a suit jacket or blazer that is too large or too small, can definitely have an effect on the overall appearance of the head shot or portrait. As with having clothing that’s hanging off of you, wearing a shirt where you’re seeing gaps between buttons because everything is pulled so tightly, is just not a good look… no matter how good of shape you’re in. Wearing a “smedium” to the bar on a Friday night might be acceptable, but wearing one for your head shot is probably not be the best idea.

You also might want to avoid extremely bright and/or overly vibrant colors for primary clothing items. Bold colors can be fine for accent pieces, but might not always be the best option for a shirt or jacket. The same goes for patterns that are very busy (bold floral patterns, animal prints, or some stripes, etc). You don’t want your clothing being the focal point of your head shot and a distraction from you.

Avoid low cut or open tops if the head shot is for professional use. Although these might be ok in some cases for a model or actor’s head shot, showing too much chest (male or female) might not send the best message.

If you’re scheduled for a head shot session with Don Bensman Photography and you’re unsure or still have questions about wardrobe selection, just ask. Proper prior planning will definitely help in producing the desired outcome!