Are you dreading your upcoming corporate headshot session? Trying to decide what to wear and how to present yourself can be a stressful endeavour.
First impressions are crucial in the corporate world, and your headshot will often be the first glimpse potential clients or employers have of you. That’s why it’s important to dress appropriately and project a professional image.
By following some simple guidelines, you can ensure that your headshot conveys the right message and helps you stand out in a competitive business environment.
In this article, I’ll provide you with expert tips and advice on what to wear for corporate headshots. From choosing the right colours to understanding the importance of keeping it simple, you’ll learn how to make a strong and lasting impression through your headshot.
So, let’s dive in and discover how to dress for success!
Why Clothing Choices Matter in Corporate Headshots
When it comes to corporate headshots, clothing choices can make a significant impact on how individuals are perceived.
The right outfit can convey professionalism, confidence, and align with the desired brand identity. On the other hand, a poor clothing choice may undermine the overall message and image that a professional wants to project.
Clean, neat, and wrinkle-free garments will add to the professionalism of the photographs. Solid colours, especially neutral tones, are often recommended as they tend to create a timeless and classic look. Bright colours can introduce an element of vibrancy, while darker shades exude sophistication and elegance.
Choosing the appropriate attire is not just about following trends; it’s also about considering the company culture and industry standards.
A professional headshot for a legal firm may require a more formal outfit with a collared shirt or blazer, while a startup in the creative industry may allow for more casual clothing choices, taking into account the individual’s personal style.
Ultimately, clothing choices help to establish the desired tone and brand identity, making a memorable impression on potential employers or clients.
So, take the time to plan your outfit thoughtfully to ensure your corporate headshots truly reflect your professional persona.
Types of Clothing
The clothes you choose can have a significant impact on the overall outcome of your headshots, so it is important to give careful thought to your outfit choices. In the next section, we will explore different types of clothing that can be suitable for corporate headshots.
How do You Want to be Presented?
One of the essential factors to consider is how you want to be presented. Your clothing choices can have a significant impact on shaping the desired image and conveying a specific message to potential employers or clients.
Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting attire for your professional image:
Consider Your Company Culture: The first step is to understand your company’s culture. If you work in a law firm or a more traditional corporate setting, it’s best to opt for more formal attire. On the other hand, if you work in a creative industry or a casual office, you have more flexibility to dress in a more relaxed and comfortable manner. What are the rules of your workplace?
Be True to Your Personal Style: While it’s important to consider the company’s culture, don’t forget to stay true to your personal style. Your headshot should reflect who you are as an individual and showcase your unique personality. Whether you prefer a tailored suit or a business casual look, make sure you feel confident and comfortable in your chosen outfit.
Stay in Your Comfort Lane: I’ve seen it time and time again. The headshot session gets announced at work and everyone rushes out to get a new wardrobe. The problem is that you often end up in something you’re not 100% comfortable in and that can be reflected in your headshot. By choosing something that’s already in your wardrobe, the chances are, you’re already comfortable wearing it.
Ultimately, you are the one who has to live with your headshot, so it’s important to feel comfortable and confident in how you are presented. By considering your company culture, staying true to your style, and paying attention to details, you can create a professional image that conveys the message you want to send in your corporate headshots.
What Colours to Choose
Choosing the right colours for your outfits can make a big impact. The right hues can help convey professionalism, confidence, and style. On the other hand, the wrong colours can distract from your face and send the wrong message.
In this section, we will explore what colours to choose for your corporate headshots, taking into consideration factors such as skin tone, background colour, and industry norms. By selecting the right colours, you can ensure that your headshots are both visually pleasing and help you make a strong impression on potential employers or clients.
Neutral Colours
Neutral colours play a significant role in corporate headshots as they provide a timeless and non-competing backdrop, allowing the focus to be on the individual and their expression. When choosing outfits for a professional headshot session, opting for neutral colours can enhance the overall look and create a clean, polished image.
Light neutrals such as a white shirt and cream can convey a sense of professionalism and cleanliness. These shades are versatile and can easily be paired with other clothing items, allowing individuals to showcase their personal style while still maintaining a polished appearance. On the other hand, dark neutral colors like navy and black can add depth and sophistication to the image. They have a slimming effect and can create a professional and authoritative vibe.
Using neutral colours in business headshots also allows the individual’s expressions or smiles to be the focal point. These colours do not compete for attention with the individual’s features or distract from their professional appearance. Instead, they provide a clean canvas that helps highlight the individual’s personality and professionalism.
Solid Colors vs Patterns
Solid colours also provide a clean and professional look that doesn’t distract from your face, which should be the main focus of your headshot.
– Distracting patterns: Busy patterns can be visually overwhelming and can take away attention from your face. This is especially important if your headshot is meant for potential employers or clients who want to see your professionalism and trustworthy demeanour.
– Solid colour options: So, what colours work well for headshots? Light neutrals, such as white, light grey, and cream, are classic choices. They create a polished and timeless look that won’t go out of style. On the other hand, dark shades like navy, charcoal grey, and black exude a sense of authority and professionalism. Warm hues like burgundy or forest green can add a touch of personality while still maintaining a professional vibe.
– Color coordination: If you’re unsure which colour suits you best, think about your skin tone, eye colour, and hair colour. Consider colours that complement your complexion and make your features stand out. For an additional touch of sophistication, you can match your solid-colour outfit with a coordinating pocket square or accessories.
When to Choose Bright Colours
Bright colours can help you stand out and show your personal style in a sea of neutral tones. However, it’s important not to go overboard with bold, fluorescent shades that may distract from your face. Opt for bright colours that complement your skin tone and the colours of your brand if you’re representing a company.
Consider your skin tone when choosing bright colours for your headshot outfit. Jewel tones, such as emerald green or sapphire blue, can look amazing on individuals with darker or olive skin tones. On the other hand, those with fair skin might consider warmer shades like coral or peach.
In addition to skin tone, consider the colours of your brand or the industry you are in. Wearing colours that are associated with your brand can help reinforce your professional identity. For example, if you work in a creative field, wearing vibrant colours can demonstrate your creativity and individuality.
Remember, the key is to strike a balance between adding personality and maintaining a professional appearance. Bright colours can be a powerful tool in making a memorable impression with your corporate headshots, as long as they are chosen with care and consideration.
Personal Style Considerations for Your Corporate Headshot Outfit
The finishing touches can make all the difference. Personal style considerations, such as makeup, hair, and jewellery, can enhance your overall look and help you feel confident and professional. Here are some points to keep in mind when choosing these finishing pieces:
Accessories and Jewelry
While attention is often given to the choice of clothing, accessories and jewellery should not be overlooked. These subtle additions can complement the overall look without distracting from the most important feature – your face.
When choosing accessories and jewellery for your headshot, it’s important to strike a balance. Hats, scarves, and simple pieces of jewellery can add a touch of flair, but they should be tested beforehand to ensure they don’t overshadow your face. Remember, the purpose of a corporate headshot is to showcase your professionalism and competence, so it’s best to opt for subtle accessories over flashy ones.
Avoid anything too distracting, such as large statement pieces or overly intricate designs. The focus of the headshot should always be on your eyes and smile, so it’s important that accessories and jewellery don’t steal the spotlight. Choose pieces that enhance your overall appearance without drawing too much attention away from your face.
To Sum Up
Remember, keep it simple and don’t worry about doing anything out of the ordinary. One of the key takeaways is how you feel. If you are comfortable in what you’re wearing, that will result in a confident-looking headshot!
If you’re looking to take your company’s headshots to the next level, send me an email to connor@mollison.co to get started.
