PREPARATION GUIDE

CORPORATE HEADSHOT

This is not about being photogenic. It is about showing up as the professional you already are. Headshot day is structured, efficient, and guided. My job is to make you feel comfortable quickly so your expression looks natural, confident, and credible.

Some of these tips may or may not be applicable to you in your everyday life, so please keep in mind that this document has been prepared by a professional headshot photographer.

EXTENSIVE RETOUCHING MAY RESULT IN THE DELAY OF YOUR GALLERY

WHAT TO EXPECT

  • Your session will take only a few minutes.

  • You will receive clear direction.

  • Small posture and expression adjustments make a big difference.

  • The process is fun and respectful of your time.

SKIN PREP

  • Stay hydrated in the days leading up to Headshot Day.

  • Use sunscreen, especially when playing golf, the week prior.

  • A gentle facial exfoliator can slough away dead, flaky skin and reduce the need for extensive retouching.

JEWELRY

I recommend keeping it simple so the accessories do not draw attention away from your eyes (e.g., stud earrings over chandeliers or no earrings at all).

MAKEUP

Aim for an elevated, everyday look that enhances your natural beauty.

Exception to this rule - your signature style. However, this is certainly not the time to discover your signature style.

  • Apply foundation to even out skin tone. Match the foundation to your neck. It should appear light and dewy rather than matte and cakey, as the latter can appear dry, blotchy, and settle into fine lines.

  • For the lips, I recommend layering lip gloss over lipstick.

  • Opt for products that deliver a luminous finish, as they create the appearance of a healthy glow from within. Highlight and shimmer can appear dated.

TEETH

  • Floss before your scheduled time slot.

  • I highly recommend whitening your teeth with a home kit in the days leading up to Headshot Day.

  • Please remove your Invisaligns for your photos.

HAIR

Schedule an appointment with your hairstylist if you're due for a cut, color, or any refresh.

FACIAL HAIR

  • Trim nose hair - THIS APPLIES TO EVERYONE.

    You will be amazed at how far I zoom in for retouching and how often I remove nose hair.

  • If you have a beard, the nose hair tends to run into the beard and can appear unruly.

  • Groom your neck. Remove razor bumps and ingrown hair.

CLOTHING

  • Wear clothing that makes you feel confident and attractive. We’re all aware of the colors that complement our skin tones and eye color.

  • Solid colors work best.

  • Avoid shiny or satin fabrics, as studio lights will reflect off your clothes.

  • Avoid busy patterns, thin stripes, neon colors, and large logos.

  • Stick to fitted and tailored clothing. Loose, baggy tops and puffy sleeves will make you appear broader than you prefer.

  • Ensure jackets and blazers fit you correctly. Not too big, not too small.

  • NECKTIE - tie a Windsor knot even if it isn’t your preferred knot. It looks sharp, and you will look polished and symmetrical in your photos. Take the time to have it ready the night before to save time. Follow this YouTube tutorial and slow down the playback if needed.

    Choose a classic color & pattern to match your buttoned-down shirt. Exception to this rule - your signature style.

MEN

  • Blazer or suit jacket recommended.

  • Crisp button down shirt - without an undershirt.

  • Tie is optional depending on company culture.

  • Facial hair groomed.

  • Clothing pressed and well-fitted!

  • Windsor knot tutorial

WOMEN

  • Blazer, fitted dress, or blouse.

  • Avoid overly low necklines and distracting statement jewelry.

  • Matte fabrics photograph beautifully.

  • Clothing pressed.

MAIN TIP:  Simple is better.

These images are not just for LinkedIn. They represent your brand, your credibility, and the trust people place in you. The session is short. The impact lasts for years.

Any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out!