The Wardrobe Guide

*If you have representation please talk to them about types you are going for and what their needs for the photos are as well​

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Choosing the right wardrobe is one of the most important parts of a successful headshot session. Your clothing should support your look, not distract from it. The goal is to create images that feel authentic, professional, and castable.

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Before we begin shooting, we’ll review all of your wardrobe options together to make sure each look photographs well and represents the types of roles or professional branding you want to book.

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Bring Multiple Options

We always recommend bringing several wardrobe choices to your session. Different colors, textures, and styles photograph differently, and having options allows us to create a variety of strong looks.

A typical headshot session may include looks such as:

• Casual / everyday
• Professional / business
• Edgy or fashion-forward
• Character-specific looks (for actors)

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Having a range of options allows us to quickly adjust during the session and build a diverse set of images.

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Best Colors for Headshots

Certain colors photograph beautifully on camera and help draw attention to your face and eyes. In most cases, solid colors work best.

Colors that typically photograph very well include:

• Deep blues
• Emerald green
• Burgundy or wine
• Charcoal gray
• Olive green
• Cream or neutral tones
• Warm earth tones like rust

These colors add depth and contrast while keeping the focus where it belongs — on you.

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Colors to Avoid

Some colors and patterns can be distracting or difficult for cameras to capture.

Try to avoid:

• Neon colors
• Small patterns or busy prints
• Thin stripes or tight patterns
• Large logos or graphics
• Distracting textures

When in doubt, simple and solid almost always wins.

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Fit Matters

Clothing should be well-fitted and flattering. Avoid clothing that is overly baggy or extremely tight.

A tailored, clean look will always photograph better and feel more professional on camera.

Layers such as jackets, sweaters, or button-down shirts can also add variety and dimension to your images.

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Accessories

Accessories should be minimal and intentional. Good accessory choices may include:

• Simple jewelry
• Watches
• Jackets or layers

Avoid anything that pulls attention away from your face.

If you wear glasses, please bring frames without lenses if possible to avoid glare during the shoot.

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Hair and Makeup

Professional hair and makeup is highly recommended, especially for women. Makeup for photography is different than everyday makeup and helps ensure your skin tones and features photograph beautifully.

For many of our sessions, a professional makeup artist is available and remains on set for touch-ups and adjustments between looks.

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Wardrobe Ideas for Actor Headshots

Actors should choose wardrobe that represents the types of roles they want to book. Casting directors should be able to quickly see how you could fit into different characters.

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Here are a few wardrobe ideas actors often bring:

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Commercial / Friendly Roles

• Casual shirts or sweaters
• Soft colors
• Denim or relaxed tops
• Light layers

These looks feel approachable and relatable.

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Professional / Authority Roles

• Blazers or jackets
• Button-down shirts
• Structured tops
• Neutral or darker tones

These looks work well for roles like doctors, lawyers, executives, detectives, and professionals.

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Edgy or Dramatic Roles

• Darker colors
• Leather jackets
• Unique textures
• Bolder styling

These looks can help create a more dramatic or intense character type.

During your session we’ll build multiple looks so your headshot portfolio shows range while still feeling authentic to you.

What to Bring to Your Headshot Session

To make the most of your session, please bring:

• 3–5 wardrobe options
• Neutral and darker color choices
• Simple accessories (optional)
• Clean shoes if they appear in photos
• Oil blotting sheets or powder if needed

If you’re unsure about an outfit, bring it anyway. We’ll review everything together and choose the strongest options.

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Final Tip

The best wardrobe is clothing that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and like yourself. When you feel great in what you're wearing,

it absolutely shows in your photos.

And don’t worry — I’ll guide you through the entire process so we can create images that look incredible and help you book work.

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