WHAT TO WEAR FOR HEADSHOTS (CLEVELAND & AKRON GUIDE)
WHAT TO WEAR FOR YOUR HEADSHOT
If you’re preparing for a professional headshot or branding session, what you wear plays a huge role in how confident, polished, and approachable you appear.
At Liza Sue Productions, we don’t just take photos—we guide you through every step of the process so you look and feel your best.
WARDROBE: WHAT TO WEAR FOR HEADSHOTS
Even if you think you’re only getting a “headshot,” you should always dress head-to-toe.
We often capture seated poses, movement, or wider crops where shoes, pants, and small details show up. Clients frequently say they wish they had brought better shoes or more options—so bring them.
Key Wardrobe Tips:
Dress head-to-toe (shoes, socks, details matter)
Choose fitted, tailored clothing over anything baggy
Wear outfits you feel confident in
Bring multiple options if possible
Remove accessories you don’t want in the image (they can peek out unexpectedly)
Bring glasses—we’ll photograph with and without
COLORS THAT PHOTOGRAPH BEST
Color plays a major role in how your image feels and how flattering it is.
Darker tones like black, navy, and charcoal are typically more slimming and timeless, while bright or overly light tones can draw attention away from your face.
What Works Best:
Solid colors (clean and timeless)
Dark neutrals (black, navy, grey)
Colors that complement your skin tone
What to Avoid:
Tight patterns (houndstooth, micro stripes, small checkers)
Loud or distracting prints
Neon or overly bright tones
We can also make subtle color adjustments in editing if needed—but starting with the right palette always gives the best results.
Coordinating your outfit with your environment can elevate your entire image and create a more cohesive, high-end look.
LAYERING: CREATE MULTIPLE LOOKS FAST
One of the easiest ways to get variety in your photos without slowing down your session is layering.
Adding or removing a blazer, jacket, or top layer instantly creates a new look.
Why Layering Matters:
Creates multiple looks quickly
Saves time during your session
Adds depth and dimension to your images
Bring:
A blazer or jacket
A second top to swap underneath
Simple layers that can be added or removed quickly
HAIR & MAKEUP FOR HEADSHOTS
Hair and makeup should feel like you—but slightly elevated.
The camera softens makeup, so going a bit more polished than your everyday look works best.
Makeup Tips:
Use matte or powder-based products to reduce shine
Avoid shimmer, glitter, or glossy finishes
Consider natural-looking false lashes to enhance your eyes
Bring powder for touch-ups
Hair Tips:
Stick with a style you know and love
Avoid trying anything new right before your shoot
Keep it polished but natural
If needed, we can retouch flyaways, blemishes, and small details in editing.
GROUP & TEAM HEADSHOT STYLING (more group samples at bottom of page)
Planning ahead is key for strong, cohesive team photos.
The goal is not to match exactly—but to coordinate in a way that represents your brand.
Easiest Options:
All black (clean, polished, timeless)
Neutrals (beige, tan, white, black, grey, navy)
Next Level:
Neutrals + your brand colors
A defined color palette across the team
Pro Tips:
Have everyone bring options
Plan wardrobe in advance
Dress head-to-toe (details matter in group shots)
If you want help, we can coordinate styling with your team ahead of time.
WHAT NOT TO WEAR FOR HEADSHOTS
Avoiding a few common mistakes can dramatically improve your results.
Avoid:
Wrinkled clothing
Baggy or ill-fitting outfits
Small, tight patterns
Overly shiny or glittery makeup
Trying new looks right before your session
Final Prep Tips:
Steam or press your outfits
Bring clothing in a garment bag to avoid wrinkles
Pack extra options
Keep things simple and polished
FINAL NOTES
Bring more options than you think you’ll need
Choose pieces that feel like you
Keep it simple, clean, and well-fitted
Think in layers for variety
Plan ahead—especially for teams
Trust the process—we’ll guide you every step of the way
READY TO BOOK YOUR HEADSHOT SESSION?
If you’re looking for professional headshots in Cleveland, Akron, or Northeast Ohio, we make the process easy, comfortable, and tailored to you.
DOWNLOAD OUR FULL WHAT TO WEAR GUIDE
Want a simplified, client-ready version of this guide?
More Group Wardrobe Samples:
