How to Choose What to Wear for Headshots

When it comes to headshots, the simpler the clothing, the better the picture.

If you're planning on getting professional headshots done for a portfolio, it is extremely important to decide what to wear for your photographs. The main focus of the headshot should be your face. You want a photo that will be striking and stand out from the others in a good way.

Things You'll Need

• Basic Makeup
• Several Shirts or Dresses

Instructions

How to Choose What to Wear for Headshots

1. Wear a top that is a solid color. Prints and patterns do not photograph nearly as well, and may take away from the focal point of the headshot--your face. You can stick to either a basic white or black if your headshot will be in black and white, rather than color, but make sure whatever you wear doesn't blend into the background too much. If your headshot will be in color, you should choose a color that compliments your skin tone and wear a top with a very simple style.

2. Decide what type of neckline accentuates your features. If you want to elongate your neck, wear a v-neck. To show off your collarbones, wear a scoop-necked shirt. If you are large chested, make sure you wear a higher neckline.

3. Bring several choices of tops with you to the photo shoot. This will give you options. Sometimes, what looks good in person does not look as good on film and vice versa. Therefore, you will want to have options and be able to change your look.

4. Keep your hair and hands out of your face. You want the employer or casting director to be able to see your face very well, and you don't want any part of it to be hidden.

5. Resist the urge to wear accessories. In terms of headshots, less is more. You want your headshot to be simple, elegant, and representative of you.

6. Wear makeup, but don't overdo it. You need a nice base that will photograph well, but you still want to look like yourself in the headshot. You can get your makeup done for free, or at the cost of purchasing a product at many of the cosmetic stands in a department store.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the top you choose has a neckline that flatters your face.

• Wear solid, neutral colors that don't blend into the background too much.

• Don't wear busy prints or a shirt with a graphic logo on it. It will detract from your face, and that is what the employer or casting director will be looking at.

• Don't wear headbands or anything in your hair. That could lead to type casting for certain acting jobs.

• Don't wear a strapless top if you have tan lines.

Resources

• Buy Headshot Prints
• Professional Headshots in NYC