WHAT TO WEAR TO YOUR PHOTO SESSION: WOMEN’S EDITION
SELECTING THE PERFECT LOOK FOR YOUR HEADSHOT
One of the most exciting yet challenging aspects of getting ready for a photo session is nailing down the right outfit. While there's no one-size-fits-all rule, making thoughtful choices plays a key role in ensuring you shine in your photos.
UNVEILING THE PHOTO EXPERIENCE
Getting ready for your headshot or lifestyle brand photo sessions requires a bit of prep to guarantee a successful and positive experience. Since every shoot is unique, your game plan might shift based on your specific photography needs. But fear not; here are some tips for women to ensure you rock your photoshoot and feel fantastic doing it.
STYLE IT RIGHT
When it comes to styling, the mantra is to keep it fitting for your work and industry. If you're unsure, leaning towards a more classic and conservative neckline is a safe bet. V-necks do wonders in elongating and adding a touch of height to your neck, while tank tops can showcase those toned arms if that's your jam. Speaking of arms, long sleeves usually steal the show over their shorter counterparts. And here's a pro tip – throw on a chic, lightweight jacket over a tank to strike the perfect balance between coverage and a polished look. The neckline steals the spotlight, so make it count! Opt for fitted and tailored clothing to bring out the best in you. Loose or baggy tops might be comfortable, but they typically don't photograph that well. Remember, Photoshop can handle pimples, wrinkles, and shine, but it can't work its magic on oversized or undersized outfits. Choose wisely, and let your attire complement the professional and polished look you're aiming for.
Anita's Pro Tip!
Consider modeling your tops for a friend and taking some quick closeup photos with a phone so you can see yourself. Simple is better.
WARDROBE
Wear what you think looks best on you and bring two alternate choices. Contrary to popular belief there are no absolutes when selecting clothing for headshots and portraits. If you feel good in what you are wearing your confidence will come through.
Do:
- In general, neutral solids are better than patterns.
- Fitted and tailored clothing works best.
- Loose or baggy tops will make you look larger than you desire.
- Try on your top(s) with your bra in front of bright light and mirror to check for transparency. Studio lights may shine through thin fabrics.
- Model your tops for a friend and take some quick photos with your phone so you can see yourself in your tops.
- If you love your arms, tank tops can work nicely. However, long sleeves often work better than short sleeves.
- If you have long dark brown or black hair, your may hair blend into darker clothing, so consider wearing a lighter colored top.
- As we age, lighter colored tops may be more flattering and fresh.
- Darker colors close to face, can draw attention to wrinkles.
- White or Off-White can work nicely unless you feel it washes you out
- Contrasting colors work well together
Avoid:
• Busy patterns, loud plaids or thick stripes.
• Short sleeved tops where the sleeve is loose on arm.
• Shiny fabrics like silk or satin.
• Loose or baggy tops or jackets that are too small and do not button!
• Pastels – the light color washes out in studio light
COLORS
In general, solids are better than patterns. Avoid pastels unless worn under a darker jacket because studio lighting is bright and can wash the light colors out. If in doubt, bring one neutral that is light (think cream, beige or white), one neutral that is dark (think black, brown, gray, navy), and then one bright color option. Deep purples look good on every skin tone. Purple is like neutral gray but with a bit of color. If you have long dark brown or black hair and then don't wear black, your hair will blend more into the clothing, so you may want to consider a lighter-colored top or jacket. As we age, lighter colors tend to be more flattering than all black, as darker colors near the face can draw more attention to wrinkles.
SUGGESTED COLORS FOR HAIR AND SKIN TONES
A general rule of thumb: blues (especially navy blue), darker grays, and deep burgundy (red wine) colors are complementary on all skin tones.
If your skin tone is more yellow, avoid greens and yellow. If your complexion is rosy, avoid reds for your photoshoot.
FAIR TO MEDIUM SKIN BURNETTES:
- Light, Medium blues
- olive, medium greens
- light medium purples
- Grays
FAIR TO MEDIUM SKIN BLONDES:
- Medium and Dark Blues
- Grays
- Medium to dark reds
- Medium to dark greens
- Medium to dark purples
- Grays
MEDIUM TO DARK SKIN BRUNETTES:
- White & ivory
- Light to medium pink
- Light to medium blues
- Medium to dark reds
- Grays
REDHEADS:
- Medium to dark greens
- brown
- medium to dark blues
- Grays
Anita's Tip!
Express.com makes great solid-colored shirts in a variety of colors and fits, with and without collars.
MAKEUP
Wear makeup that makes you feel comfortable and look camera-ready but natural.
Do:
- Wear mascara as well as lipstick close to your natural lip color
- Consider having a professional do your make-up for you.
- Anita can book this for you. ( Anita’s stylists do both hair and makeup) If you have a makeup session, arrive with a clean face. You should only use an oil-free moisturizer and an eye cream prior to your session and do not use any sunscreen.
Avoid:
- Sun exposure for 1-2 days prior to headshot session.
- Don’t worry about blemishes. They are easily retouched!
- Don’t wear too much face powder over foundaioon – digital is sharp and too much powder will show and be impossible to retouch.
- Don’t wear sunscreen or any SPF to the photoshoot.
HAIR
Consider hiring a professional to do your hair when you have your make- up done. This can be particularly helpful if you have unruly hair. Anita can book a session for you. Her stylists all do both hair and makeup for one great price!
DO
- Whether or not you work with a stylist, make sure you wear your hair in a way that you think looks most like you!
- Adding some wave or curl to the hair usually looks great in most cuts look better after one week. It is usually NOT a good idea to get your hair cut or hair colored the day before your session.
IF YOU ARE WORKING WITH A STYLIST
- In most cases, wash and blow-dry hair the night before. If you are getting an updo, wash your hair the day before so it is not too soft. This way your hair will better hold the style.
- Apply all the products you normally use and blow dry. If you are getting a blowout in your hair session, wash your hair the morning of your appointment and use your regular styling products, but don’t overdo it.
- If you have long hair and you want to put some curls in it, wash it the night before and then wet it again in the morning, apply the products you normally use, and then blow dry with your head down. This way, your hair won’t be too soft to hold the curl, and it will have some volume from the root.
GROOMING YOUR SKIN
It is very helpful to wax and manicure your eyebrows and remove facial fuzz prior to your photo shoot. BUT make sure to do this 3 or more days before your session, just in case you have a skin reaction. Removing hair from the facial skin ensures that your foundation goes on smoothly and prevents applied powder from becoming attached to
those fine hairs, which are very visible in your close-up digital photographs. A drug store depilatory cream will easily remove facial fuzz. Popular brands include Sally Hansen and Oil of Olay. To make sure you don’t have an allergic reaction, conduct a patch test a few days before the photoshoot.
You can also use a traditonal disposable razor and just shave it. Yes, shave it! It is a myth that by shaving the hair it will grow back darker and thicker. Plus, shaving removes the top layer of dead skin sells and exfoliates your skin. This can tighten and plump your skin through constant cellular rejuvenation.
UNDERGARMENTS
Ladies, let's discuss an important aspect of a successful photo session – undergarments. It's crucial to ensure that your choice of bras remains discreet under studio lights. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Select Thoughtfully: Opt for bras that won't be visible through your garments, particularly if they are thin. Nude bras are advisable for lighter colors.
- Strapless or Racer Back: Use these styles as needed, but refrain from ruffled or lacy bras if your shirt fabric is thin and form-fitting.
- Prioritize Fit: A well-fitted bra not only provides support but also enhances your overall appearance. Ensure you try on your top with your chosen bra in bright light to assess its impact.
Anita's Pro Tip:
Bring multiple bra options to accommodate any changes in your wardrobe styling. Preparation with suitable options is always preferable.
ACCESSORIES
Now, let's delve into the realm of accessories – the finishing touches to your headshot. While they can add flair, it's important to strike a balance that doesn't overshadow your face. Here are some considerations:
- Optimal Sizing: Choose accessories that complement rather than distract from your facial features. Avoid oversized earrings or large necklaces that may divert attention.
- Earring Selection: Longer hairstyles might obscure earrings, so choose discreetly. If necessary, we can address odd reflections or the presence of only one earring through post-processing.
- Glasses Etiquette: For those who wear glasses, we can capture shots with and without them. Ensure your glasses have a non-reflective anti-glare coating.
Anita's Pro Tip:
Simplicity often speaks volumes. While accessories can enhance your in-person look, in images, subtlety tends to be more effective. Choose your accessories wisely and refined.
These guidelines are geared towards ensuring your readiness and a polished appearance in every frame.
Welcome to the "What Not to Wear"
briefing for your upcoming session! We're here to make sure your photos shine, and that means steering clear of a few styling pitfalls. So, let's dive into the selections you might want to skip:
- Too Loose or Baggy Clothing: Shapes are everything in photography. We want to capture your silhouette.
- See-Through Tops: Let's keep it classy. Embrace confidence by opting for attire that showcases you without any surprises.
- Wrinkled Tops: It's harder to photoshop it than you think, and wrinkles are a lot more noticeable than you think!
- Crazy Busy Patterns: If patterns are your thing, I want you to bring them, but let's avoid neon emojis.
- Big Ruffles: They might steal the show, and we want you front and center.
- Shiny Fabrics: no need for fabrics that steal the spotlight
- Jackets That Are Too Small: Comfort is key; we want you to feel at ease, not constrained.
- Shirts That Are Too Tight: The Same applies as #7
BE YOUR BEST SELF & PREPARED
These might sound like common sense, but you'd be amazed at the variety of fashion choices we've seen. Remember, what you bring is what we work with, so it's essential to be prepared. That jacket that once hugged you perfectly might need a double-check. While trends come and go, a clean, classy look is timeless.
This ensures your photos will last, too.
BREAKING THE MYTHS
Contrary to popular belief, there are no absolute rules for headshot wardrobes. If it feels good and looks good on you, bring it along! Our goal is to craft a visionary photography experience for you – from styling and makeup to hair and wardrobe. Schedule a pre-shoot consultation with me or one of my professional stylists to guarantee you look and feel your absolute best for your close-up. Because who said a photoshoot can't be both flawless and fun?
MY PROMISE TO YOU
My goal is to create a truly visionary photography experience and that involves more than just taking your pictures. It's about styling, makeup, hair, and, of course, your wardrobe. You always have the option to schedule a pre-shoot wardrobe consultation with me or one of my fantastic stylists. Let's ensure you feel comfortable and confident for your close-up. Because your session is not only about taking pictures; it's a celebration of you!