South Atlanta Photography’s Ultimate Headshot Wardrobe Guide: Look the Part, Feel the Part

Alright, so you’ve booked your headshot session—awesome! Now comes the question that trips up a lot of people: What on earth do I wear? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Let’s break it down into some simple “Yes” and “No” categories, so you’ll look sharp, feel confident, and leave with headshots that truly represent you.

YES, PLEASE!

• Solids Are Your Best Friend
  When it comes to headshots, solid colors are where it’s at. Have a light option and a dark option in your arsenal, but here’s a little tip: steer clear of plain white or black. They can wash you out or be too harsh. Think more along the lines of versatile earth tones or soft shades that compliment your skin.

• Earth Tones for the Win
  Olive greens, deep blues, rich browns, burgundy, and even gray—these colors are always a safe bet. They not only photograph well but also add a grounded, natural vibe to your images. You want to stand out in your headshots, but not for the wrong reasons, and these tones will make sure you don’t.

• Subtle Textures, Big Impact
  If you want to add a bit of personality without going overboard, subtle textures like chambray or denim are perfect. They bring in a little extra something without distracting from your face, which is, after all, the star of the show.

• Jewel Tones for a Pop
  Love a good jewel tone? So do we! Colors like rich reds, light blues, and purples are fantastic—but here’s the trick: layer them under something. A deep magenta blouse peeking out from under a sleek blazer can add just the right amount of color without overwhelming the shot.

• Layer It Up
  Speaking of blazers, layering is key. Not only does it add dimension to your look, but it also gives you more options during the shoot. Blazers, bomber jackets, leather jackets, and even a well-fitted denim jacket can elevate your headshot game. Plus, if you’re feeling a little nervous, having a layer to adjust can be a great way to ease into the session.

• Eyes on the Prize
  Here’s a little pro tip: think about your eyes. You don’t have to match your clothes to them, but picking colors that complement your eye color can make your headshots pop even more. It’s a subtle touch that makes a big difference.

• Options, Options, Options
  Even if we’re only planning on shooting two looks, bring 4-6 options. Trust us, it’s better to have more choices on hand. We’ll mix and match to find what works best with the lighting, background, and mood we’re going for.

NOPE! DON’T EVEN THINK ABOUT IT...

• Logos, Prints, or Graphic Ts
  This is a hard no. Logos, busy prints, and graphic T-shirts are distracting and can quickly make your headshots look unprofessional. We’re here to capture you, not advertise your favorite brand or band.

• Polos—Just No
  Button-up dress shirts? Great. But polos? Absolutely not. They don’t photograph well. They are usually made with a material that is meant for comfort, which on camera often turns in to slouchy. They tend to make you look more like you’re headed to the golf course than for a professional headshot. Save those for the weekend.

• Stripes—Proceed with Caution
  Stripes can be tricky. If they’re subtle and under a layer, they might work, but honestly, it’s a fine line. You’re better off avoiding them unless we’re going for a very specific look.

• Busy Patterns, Prints, or Textures
  That favorite plaid shirt of yours? Or that funky paisley tie? Probably not the best choice for headshots. These patterns tend to clash on camera and can be distracting. Remember, the focus should be on you, not your clothes.

• Distracting Jewelry
  Leave the big, bold jewelry at home unless it’s part of your brand or character. Statement pieces can take attention away from your face, which is exactly what we don’t want. Stick to simple, understated pieces if you want to wear jewelry.

• Fit Is Everything
  Here’s the deal: if your clothes look big or baggy in the mirror, they’re going to look even bigger on camera. Make sure everything fits well—tailored and neat is the way to go. We want to see you, not an oversized jacket or a shirt that’s swallowing you up.

A Quick Note on Pants and Shoes
For headshots only, your pants and shoes don’t really matter since they won’t be in the frame. However, most headshots these days are more like portraits. We suggest you go ahead and think about the full look just to be prepared.

Now that you’re armed with this wardrobe wisdom, you’re ready to rock your headshot session. Remember, the goal is to look like you—the best, most confident version of you. So pick your outfits, bring a few options, and let’s create something amazing together!

If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to get in touch. We are here to help.

South Atlanta Photography Senior Sessions
Studio@southatlantaphotography.com
770-727-5607