Portrait of an older man with silver hair and beard, dressed in a gray suit and tie, standing against a red background.

Some looks are just classic. Understated jacket and tie keeping the attention on the person's face

Portrait of a smiling middle-aged man with glasses, light hair, and a beard, wearing a dark blue button-up shirt against a gray background.

If your industry is more casual there is no need for a jacket and tie. The darker, simple shirt doesn't distract.

Professional portrait of a woman with long dark hair, smiling, wearing a black blazer and a red blouse, against a plain gray background.

A jacket or sweater over a splash of color can add a dynamic flare.

Portrait of a man wearing glasses, a blue collared shirt, and a black zip-up jacket, smiling and standing indoors near a white table.

Sweaters or jackets with a splash of color work great for both men or women.

Here are a few tips to make your upcoming headshot session a success:

  • Dress to impress within your industry

Every industry has different levels of dress. A lawyer usually dresses differently than a software developer. But no matter your industry dressing to impress will help make your headshot look great.

  • Stripes and patterns

Stripes and patterns may look good for your day-to-day wardrobe, but for headshots, you want to stick to solid colors and non-distracting fabrics.

Loud patterns, logos, and large jewelry will take the focus off your face, which is why it’s best to stick to simple color tops and blouses and toned-down accessories.

  • Sleeve length

Long and 3/4 sleeves are a good option for headshots.

  • Stick with simple jewelry

Accessories are great but we don’t want anything taking attention away from your face.

  • Think about possibly wearing layers

Lighter colors or a splash of color under a jacket can add a nice touch.

A smiling woman with short, curly hair wearing a beige blazer and a green blouse, standing outdoors near a brick building with greenery in the background.

Another example of a jacket over a splash of color opens up lots of possibilities.

A middle-aged man with light skin, short light hair, wearing a dark suit, white shirt, and red tie, standing against a white background.

Some industries, such as lawyers, are more formal than others.

Headshot of a smiling Black man with a beard, wearing a brown henley shirt, against a gray background.

Some industries are more casual. The shirt is casual but very neat and doesn't distract.

A smiling middle-aged man with a bald head and gray beard, dressed in a navy suit, light purple shirt, patterned bow tie, and pocket square, standing in front of a gray tiled wall.

Don't forget to let your personality show. The bow tie is great. The light pink shirt under a navy jacket is a smart look.

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