As a picture is worth a thousand words, a good professional headshot is priceless and will elevate your personal brand and your business. Whether you are getting headshots for the first time or updating existing ones, what you wear makes a lasting impression and influences how people view you.

WHY Professional Headshots Are So Important

A headshot can make a great impression. It represents who you are and conveys many things, including professionalism, confidence, trustworthiness, and success. Often, the first glimpse people have into you, and your business is your headshot. Headshots are an extension of your brand and allow people to put a face with a name. Someone may see your headshot on social media, a website (yours, a professional association’s, or someplace else), in an ad, or elsewhere. From your headshot, someone may decide you look friendly and trustworthy, prompting them to learn more about your business and how you can help them accomplish their goals.Separately, people often update their headshots when they begin a job search or receive a promotion. They want their new and refreshed image to convey they are hard-working, reliable, and professional. They want their headshot to help them get an interview and, ultimately, help them get their new job.

REASONS For Your Headshot

So, to help you determine what to wear, think about why you are getting your headshots and where you will use the pictures.

 ·       Are they for a professional association or a corporate website?

·       Are they going on a creative website?

·       Are you in an industry where your creativity is essential, and you want your headshots to highlight this?

·       What do you wear when you visit prospects and clients?

·       Are you starting a job search?

·       Were you recently promoted?

The answers to these questions will point you toward what you should wear. And then, the details of what you wear, including the type of clothing and the colors you choose, will help you convey your message.

Colors

To determine colors, there are some factors to help you narrow down what to wear. First, find out if your pictures will be taken indoors or outside and how much of your body will be captured in the photos. Then, figure out which colors complement your hair and complexion. Finally, determine what message you want your headshots to convey.

Consider Color Theory and Messaging

Certain colors impact thoughts and behaviors and convey messaging.

Darker colors convey authority and are considered more formal, while lighter colors are considered more friendly and communicate approachability. Think about the industry you are in and what you are looking to accomplish. For example, a CEO and a social worker may choose to convey two different types of messages.

Specific colors are associated with certain traits and convey certain messaging. For example, blue is considered calming and dependable. Green is associated with wealth, prosperity, safety, and calm. Gold conveys success, while purple convey royalty and imagination. Red signifies passion and energy. Orange is associated with optimism, and yellow is associated with happiness. Brown reflects security, stability, and strength.

The contrast of dark with light conveys authority and power. For example, a darker jacket paired with a lighter-colored blouse is considered a power top.  

Consider your colors and what you want to accomplish with your photos as you pick out your clothing. 

Look at other people's headshots. Pay attention to how each photo makes you feel, then notice what the person is wearing, which can be helpful as you figure out your clothing. 

Now that you know what colors to wear, click here for our complete guide on what to wear to take amazing headshots. – Read the Color Guide

If you are ready to book your headshot, click here to schedule your Headshot or Portrait Session

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to get in touch with us!