My Top 5 Preparation Tips for a Successful Headshot Session
At MKP Studios, I provide the appropriate venue, the right preparation, proper lighting technique, posing and editing to deliver quality, flattering headshot images that you'll love. Trust me - you don’t have to be a model to take a great headshot.
While I do most of the work to make your headshot photography session an easy, successful and enjoyable experience, I do believe a little bit of client preparation is also important. Following are my top headshot preparation tips to help my clients show up to look their best in front of the camera. 📷
TIP 1: WHAT TO WEAR
In general, I suggest to keep things simple, classic and neat. When evaluating your clothing choice, I suggest you ask the following questions:
1) Is it neat? Clean, neat and freshly-pressed is key. Flimsy collars/ necklines that don’t lay right look messy and can be problematic.
2) Is it simple? Solid colors are always a good choice (avoid overly bright/neon colors). I also do not recommend busy patterns.
3) Is it appropriate? Consider your intended use when making your choices - Business attire makes sense for some industries, a more casual approach might be more suitable for others. Consider bringing layers - some clients like to bring a jacket, for example. Also, veer away from overly-trendy styles. Classic is always a good choice.
4) Does it fit/make you feel good? This might be the most important consideration. If you feel good in your clothing, it shows in how you carry and present yourself.
5) Bring some options to your session
I always recommend clients bring a few clothing choices to the studio as I can provide recommendations on the day of your session. As your headshot photographer, I have a good knowledge about what will photograph best.
TIP 2: HAIR
Hair
Unless you are planning a significant hair length/style change, I recommend getting a hair cut within 2- 3 days of your session. If you have a hairstyle that requires moderate to complex styling, you might consider scheduling your session after being freshly styled. If your hair is prone to frizz/flyaways, please bring your favorite hair product(s) and a brush.
Trim your ear, nose, and eyebrow hairs if needed.
If you shave daily, consider shaving about 4 hours of your session (but not immediately before due to redness/irritation). If you have a beard, please be sure it’s neatly trimmed.
TIP 3: MAKEUP
In general, keep things natural and simple. Makeup is also useful to remove “shine” on your face, cover up blemishes, and balance out skin tone to help you look your best. If using makeup, please bring some extra matte powder/other makeup products for touch-up and to reduce shine. It is recommended that products with sparkles/shimmer are avoided.
TIP 4: RESEARCH PHOTOGRAPHER TO FIND A GOOD FIT FOR YOU
It’s important to research photographers near you that provide the style, expertise and service level that best fits your needs and expectations. Each photographer brings their own skills, strengths and style and service level to their work. Pick one that is a good fit for you.
TIP 5: Relax and Be Yourself
Showing up to a headshot session may feel overwhelming and stressful at times. However, my biggest tip is to relax and trust the person you have hired. Great headshot photographers are trained to help you relax and pose you to look your best. If you can relax and be yourself in front of the camera, that’s when the “magic” happens: authentic, impactful and flattering images of you at your very best.
Michele
Interested in working with MKP for your next headshot? Click here to book a session: BOOK HERE. For more details about MKP Headshots click here: MKP Headshots