How to Prepare for Your Headshot Session

1. General Preparation

In the days leading up to your session, focus on consistency.

• Get a good night of sleep before your session.
• Drink water regularly so your skin looks well hydrated.
• Stay with your normal routine rather than making last-minute changes.
• Avoid trying new skincare or grooming products right beforehand, especially if you know your skin is sensitive.

The goal is not to look different. It is to look like a polished, well-rested version of yourself.

2. Hair

Plan haircuts, color, and styling with a little lead time.

• If you are getting a haircut, avoid scheduling it immediately before the session. Giving it a little time to settle usually photographs better.
• Avoid major hairstyle or color changes right before the shoot.
• Style your hair the way you would normally wear it in a professional setting.
• Bring a brush, comb, or any products you may want for small adjustments.

Consistency is usually better than trying something new for the session.

3. Teeth and Smile Preparation

A clean, natural smile photographs well.

• Brush your teeth before the session if possible.
• Avoid anything that may cause unnecessary sensitivity or discomfort right beforehand.
• Focus on looking natural and comfortable rather than overcorrecting.

Preparation helps the final images look more polished and natural.

4. Facial Hair

If you wear facial hair, make sure it is trimmed and shaped the way you would want it to appear professionally.

• If you keep a beard or mustache, clean up the edges and make sure it is evenly groomed.
• If you prefer a clean-shaven look, shave the morning of the session if that works well for your skin.
• Avoid making a major change to your usual appearance right before the shoot unless that change is intentional and long-term.

The most effective headshots usually reflect how you normally appear at work.

5. Makeup and Skincare

The best approach is usually controlled and natural.

• Moisturize as you normally would.
• Use products you know work well for your skin.
• Avoid experimenting with new makeup or skincare products right before the session.
• Aim for a clean, professional look rather than anything overly heavy.

For most headshots, subtle and well-applied makeup photographs better than dramatic application.

6. Clothing Preparation

Clothing has a significant impact on how polished and consistent the final image feels.

• Try on your clothing ahead of time.
• Choose something that fits well and feels comfortable.
• Make sure clothing is clean and pressed.
• Bring an extra option if you are unsure.
• Avoid anything distracting, overly wrinkled, or noticeably worn.

In most cases, simple and professional choices photograph best. If your firm has provided wardrobe or branding guidance, use that as your starting point. Consistency across the team is often more important than individual variation.

7. Glasses and Small Details

Small details can make a noticeable difference in the final image.

• Clean your glasses before the session.
• If you normally wear glasses at work, plan to be photographed in them unless your firm has requested otherwise.
• Bring them even if you are undecided.
• Check for lint, wrinkles, or other small distractions before your session begins.

These small adjustments help the final images feel more polished and consistent.

8. Mindset and Comfort

You do not need prior experience in front of the camera.

• Arrive a few minutes early if possible.
• Take a moment to settle in before the session begins.
• Expression and posture guidance will be provided during the session.
• Focus on looking attentive, approachable, and comfortable.

Most people are not fully relaxed at the beginning of a session. That is normal. A few minutes of direction and adjustment usually makes a significant difference.

Final Notes

The goal of the session is to create a headshot that feels current, professional, and consistent with how you represent yourself at work.

If your organization has provided wardrobe guidance, branding standards, or specific usage requirements, keep those in mind as you prepare.

If you have questions before your session, feel free to reach out in advance.