Top tips for preparing for a professional headshot session
Your professional headshot is often the first impression people have of you. Whether it’s for your LinkedIn profile, company website, or a personal portfolio, your headshot says a lot about who you are.
Preparing for your session doesn’t need to feel overwhelming – it’s all about knowing what to expect and how to get the best results.
Why does preparation matter?
Have you ever seen a headshot that just doesn’t feel right? Maybe the lighting is off, the expression feels forced, or the clothing choice doesn’t fit the person’s brand. That’s what preparation prevents. Of course, hiring a reliable Toronto headshot photographer is always the first step. Then, you need to prepare yourself.
A well-thought-out session ensures your photos reflect your personality and professionalism. Plus, it saves you time and stress during the shoot because you’ll already know what works best for you.
Choose the right outfit
The first thing to plan is what you’re wearing. Your clothing can make or break your headshot, so it’s worth putting thought into this step. Consider these guidelines:
- Keep it simple – Solid colors usually photograph best, especially neutral or muted tones like navy, gray, or white. Patterns can be distracting unless they’re very subtle.
- Think about your industry – A headshot for a creative job might call for a more casual, relaxed look, while corporate roles might require something formal, like a blazer or tailored shirt.
- Avoid distractions – Skip anything with loud logos, bright colors, or overly trendy styles that might date your photo in a year.
Try on your chosen outfit a few days before the session to ensure it fits well and looks polished. And don’t forget to iron or steam it!
Grooming: The details matter
How you present yourself isn’t just about clothing – your grooming plays a huge role, too. Start by taking care of your skin. Hydrate well, and if possible, exfoliate gently the night before to achieve a smooth, healthy glow.
For hair, stick to your usual style. A headshot isn’t the time to experiment with a new cut or color. If you’re due for a trim, schedule it at least a week before your shoot so it looks fresh but natural.
For makeup, keep it minimal and camera-friendly. The goal is to enhance, not mask, your features. Avoid products with shimmer, as they can reflect the studio lights.
Practice your expressions
Does the thought of posing for the camera make you nervous? That’s totally normal. A little practice can make a big difference. Stand in front of a mirror and try out a few expressions. A soft smile usually works best, as it feels approachable without being overly formal.
You can also think about how you want to come across. Friendly? Confident? Professional? Aim for an expression that matches your personality and your goals for the headshot. Your photographer will guide you during the session, but practicing beforehand will help you feel more at ease.
Get a good night’s sleep
This one might seem obvious, but it’s worth emphasizing: rest makes a big difference. When you’re well-rested, you’re more likely to feel relaxed and look refreshed. Puffy eyes or tired skin can be tough to hide, even with makeup or retouching. Give yourself the best chance of looking and feeling great by getting a full night’s sleep before your session.
Timing is everything
When scheduling your session, think about the time of day when you feel your best. Some people are most energetic in the morning, while others find they hit their stride in the afternoon. Choose a time when you’re likely to be relaxed and alert.
Also, leave enough time in your schedule to arrive at the session without rushing. Feeling hurried or stressed can show up in your expression, so plan for a calm, unhurried arrival.
Communicate with your photographer
A good photographer will want to know your goals for the session. Are you looking for something formal, creative, or casual? Do you have any specific ideas or preferences? Share these details ahead of time so they can tailor the session to your needs.
If you’re unsure about posing or styling, don’t hesitate to ask for guidance. Professional photographers are experts at helping you feel comfortable and finding your best angles.
Bring a few extras
It never hurts to come prepared with a few backup items. Consider bringing:
- A second outfit – Just in case the first one doesn’t work as well on camera as you’d hoped.
- A comb or brush – To touch up your hair if needed during the shoot.
- Blotting paper or powder – To reduce shine, especially under studio lights.
- Lip balm – Dry lips can be distracting in photos.
Having these extras on hand can save you from small but avoidable mishaps.
Relax and enjoy the process
It’s easy to overthink a headshot session, but remember: the goal is to capture you. If you’re feeling tense, take a deep breath and trust the process. Your photographer is there to guide you, and they’ve likely worked with people who feel just as nervous as you might.
Think of the session as an opportunity to celebrate yourself and your professional journey. Confidence shines through in photos, so focus on the positives – your skills, achievements, and personality.
A photo that reflects you
At the end of the day, a professional headshot is more than just a picture. It’s a visual representation of your personal brand, one that opens doors and leaves a lasting impression. With a little preparation and the right mindset, you’ll walk away with a headshot you can feel proud of.