Why Your Outfit Matters in a Professional Headshot
One of the most common questions clients ask me is what they should wear for their professional headshots. Whether it’s for LinkedIn, your company website, speaking engagements or press features, your headshot directly affects:
- How professional and trustworthy you appear
- How timeless your headshot feels (no trend regrets later)
- How much attention stays on your face instead of your outfit
That’s why it’s critical to keep your headshot up to date. The average age of a headshot is 2-3 years. Anything older than that is due for a refresh. Signs it’s time to update your headshot include a significant change in appearance, entering a new stage of your career, or mixed results with your current headshot.
Best Colors for Professional Headshots
Best colors for professional headshots are solid, muted, or deep tones that complement your skin tone and create a polished look without distracting from your face. Some of the best colors for professional headshots include:
- Navy blue
- Charcoal gray
- Forest green
- Deep burgundy
When considering patterns or solid colors, solids work best for headshots since large patterns can take over the photo. Modest prints paired layered with solids can be flattering and add visual interest to your headshot. Avoid neon, bright or overly busy patterns, and select colors that provide contrast against your background.
What to Wear for Headshots by Industry in Philadelphia
Professional headshots vary based on your industry’s culture, ranging from the structured formality of corporate finance to the relaxed, approachable vibe of creative arts. The right aesthetic serves as a visual handshake that communicates your specific expertise and brand personality before a single word is exchanged.
Corporate, Finance & Law
Think polished, classic and authoritative.
- Structured blazer or suit jacket
- Button-down shirt or blouse
- Neutral colors
- Minimal jewelry/accessories
Healthcare & Medical
Your headshot should feel approachable and trustworthy.
- Soft blues, grays or whites
- Clean, simple tops or blouses
- Minimal patterns
Tech, Startups & Creatives
The goal: modern, confident and authentic.
- Elevated casual outfits
- Textured layers (jackets, sweaters)
- Dark denim works well in studio settings
- Jacket on / off for variety
Entrepreneurs & Personal Brands
You’re the brand, so versatility is key.
- Bring a formal and relaxed look
- Neutral base with subtle personality
- Choose outfits that match your target audience
How Many Outfits Should You Bring?
Bring 2–3 distinct outfits to add variety to your headshots. Aim for a mix of formality, such as one highly professional look (blazer/suit), one business-casual look, and one with a pop of color or personality.
For shorter sessions, focus on small swaps instead of full wardrobe changes to keep your session efficient while maximizing variety. Popular options include jacket on vs jacket off, with and without glasses, and tie or no tie.
Studio vs. Outdoor Headshots: Key Differences
Outdoor headshots feel more relaxed and lifestyle-oriented, while studio shots are crisp and classic. Tailoring your outfit to the environment helps your headshot feel more cohesive.
Studio Headshots
Studio headshots are perfect for most business professionals. They’re clean, polished, and work for a variety of industries. These types of clothing tend to work best for studio headshots:
- Structured fabrics provide definition
- Darker neutrals create a modern look
- Simple lines keep the image timeless
Outdoor Headshots
Outdoor headshots are an alternative option that work best for creative roles or those seeking a more modern, personal approach. When opting for outdoor headshots, keep these style tips in minds:
- Texture matters (knits, wool, layers)
- Avoid shiny or reflective fabrics
- Coordinate with environment
Grooming & Styling Tips
For professional headshots, small details make a big difference. Consider these grooming and styling tips to look your best.
- Schedule haircuts 7-10 days before your session
- Trim facial hair 1-2 days before
- Use matte, neutral makeup to avoid camera-induced shine
To make things even easier, choose your outfit the night before to reduce stress and avoid a fashion emergency. Remember to steam or iron your clothes to remove any wrinkles and create a crisp, polished look.
Common Headshot Outfit Mistakes to Avoid
You only get once chance to make a great first impression. A professional headshot photographer will help you avoid common mistakes like awkward posture or unnatural poses, poor lighting and distracting backgrounds.
When choosing your outfit, avoid overly trendy pieces that will date your headshot or dressing too casually for your industry. Consider adding refined pieces to complete the look instead of flashy accessories that distract from your headshot.
Final Thoughts: Dress to Impress
Your headshot is a visual representation of you and your professional brand, so it’s crucial to put your best foot forward. When you dress intentionally, your headshots feel natural, modern and professional.
As a Philadelphia headshot photographer, I guide every client through wardrobe choices before the session so there’s no guesswork. If you’re ready to update your professional headshot, I invite you to send me a message.
