Outfit
Solid colours are always good and less distracting but I myself do love a pattern. I think they convey more what I like and who I am as a person. So this is really up to you! You’ll find examples of both options on this page and, hopefully, you’ll agree that both of them DO actually work.
If you are taking a headshot for a business that you own, I’ve got a great tip for you. Leslie Mello, a successful branding expert whose clients I had the pleasure to photograph, advices that wearing your brand colours is obviously a great way to make the brand come to life on your home page and social media but don’t wear the brand colours if they don’t suit you. The main point of the photos is for you to look great – so I’d rather you wear the colours that suit you best.
If you think none of your brand colours suits you, a neutral top could look really good, especially if you’re using the ivy wall in my garden (weather permitting), or the colourful or neutral paper backgrounds in the studio. I would also try and have at least one option that’s not a t-shirt. A blouse or shirt will usually lend a more polished look (it might come in handy!)
No matter what is the purpose of your headshot, make sure you’ve got your outfit sorted way before the session, not only because there could be delays on the delivery if you are ordering something special but, also, because you will have time to change your mind. This will ensure you give some proper thought on the choice of the best outfit that will work for you at THIS moment in time.
I’m always happy to chat things through so drop me a line if you have any questions or ideas you want to discuss.
MakeUp
Simple makeup is the best for this shoot. Nude colours work wonders (but please go for a red or bright lipstick if that’s your thing!) If you are not organising a professional hair and makeup artist, I urge you to take a look at the ‘no-makeup’ makeup tutorials by Lisa Eldridge. Have you watched them? They are brilliant – I’ve learned loads from her. I think her best tip is to spend most of your makeup time on your skin!
Here are the links:
The ‘no makeup’ makeup tutorial by Lisa Eldridge
My ultimate ‘secret’ makeup look by Lisa Eldridge
No ‘makeup’ look tutorial by Lisa Eldridge with further tips
