What to Wear for Professional Headshots

What to Wear for Professional Headshots

One of the most common questions people ask before a headshot session is simple:

What should I wear?

The good news is, it doesn’t need to be complicated. The aim is to look like a polished version of yourself. Not overly styled, not uncomfortable, just professional and confident.

Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn profile or booking corporate headshots in Cardiff, a few simple choices make a big difference.

Keep It Simple and Professional

The best headshots are clean and uncluttered.

That starts with what you wear.

Clothing should fit well, feel comfortable, and not distract from your face. If something feels awkward or too tight, it will show in the photos.

Simple, well fitted clothing almost always works better than something overly styled.

Choose Colours That Work on Camera

Colour matters more than people expect.

Neutral tones tend to photograph best. Think:

• Navy
• Grey
• White
• Black
• Muted blues and greens

Very bright colours can draw attention away from your face, while overly pale tones can sometimes wash out depending on lighting.

If in doubt, keep it understated.

Dress for Your Industry

Your headshot should reflect how you want to be seen professionally.

A lawyer or corporate director will usually lean towards more formal clothing. A creative or freelancer might choose something more relaxed.

There’s no single right answer. The key is consistency with your role and audience.

If you wouldn’t wear it to meet a client, it’s probably not right for your headshot.

Bring Options

It’s always worth bringing a couple of options to your session.

A simple change like adding or removing a jacket can give you two distinct looks without needing a full outfit change.

Most people bring:

• One more formal option
• One slightly more relaxed option

We can then quickly test what works best on camera.

What to Avoid

A few things tend not to work well in headshots:

• Busy patterns
• Large logos or graphics
• Very bright colours
• Ill fitting clothing

These can distract from the image and make the photo feel less professional.

Preparing on the Day

A little preparation goes a long way.

• Make sure clothes are clean and pressed
• Choose something you feel comfortable in
• Keep accessories minimal
• Don’t overthink it

Most people are slightly unsure at the start of a session, which is completely normal. Once we get going, it quickly settles into a relaxed process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I wear black or white?
Both can work well. Black is safe and professional, while white can feel fresher. It often depends on background and lighting.

Can I wear glasses?
Yes. If you normally wear them, it’s usually best to keep them on. We’ll manage reflections during the shoot.

Should I wear makeup?
Keep it natural. The aim is to look like yourself on a good day, not overly styled.

Can I bring multiple outfits?
Yes, and it’s encouraged. A couple of options gives flexibility during the session.

Professional Headshots in Cardiff

If you’re planning a headshot session and want some guidance on what works best, I’m happy to help.

The aim is always the same. Natural, confident images that represent you properly, without overcomplicating the process.

Get in touch to book your session.