If there’s one question I hear more than any other before a headshot session, it’s this: “What should I wear for professional headshots?”

And I get it! Being in front of a camera can feel intimidating enough without worrying about whether you’ve chosen the right outfit. You want to look professional, feel confident, and recognize yourself in the final images. The last thing you need is to second-guess everything hanging in your closet.

As a Raleigh corporate headshot photographer, I’ve helped professionals across a variety of industries prepare for their portraits. And here’s what I want you to know: you don’t need a new wardrobe or a complicated outfit to have a great headshot. You just need to know what works on camera.

So if you’ve been wondering what to wear for professional headshots, this guide is for you. Think of it as your headshot wardrobe cheat sheet: what to wear, what to avoid, and the little details that make a difference.

Let’s make getting ready the easy part!

1. Start with the golden rule: Choose solid colors, but skip solid black and solid white.

Color is one of the easiest ways to create a beautiful, polished headshot. My go-to recommendation is to choose a solid color that complements your complexion and makes you feel confident.

My general rule? Avoid wearing solid black or solid white as your entire top or outfit.

Here’s why: A solid black sweater can lose detail and blend into a dark background, while a solid white top or white suit jacket can be overpowering in a photograph. Depending on the lighting and background, very bright white can pull attention away from your face.

There are exceptions! Black pants are absolutely fine, and a black top underneath a contrasting blazer can look fantastic. The goal isn’t to eliminate black from your wardrobe. It’s to avoid an uninterrupted block of black or white that dominates the image.

So, what colors should you wear?

I love jewel tones, rich colors, and beautiful pastels. Royal blue is always a winner, but emerald green, teal, pink, purple, and lavender can all look wonderful, too.

If you’re preparing for a company headshot, you can also consider your organization’s brand colors or the colors used on its website.

And here’s the best part: solid colors do not have to be boring!

Brands like Boden are great inspiration for finding colorful clothing with personality. Look for interesting collars, statement sleeves, beautiful buttons, subtle pleating, textured fabrics, or a little structure in the shoulders. These details add style and visual interest without competing with your face.

You can absolutely show some personality in your professional headshot. In fact, I encourage it!

What if you love white or cream?

You don’t have to give up light neutrals. Instead of a completely smooth, solid-white top or white suit jacket, try cream or ivory with texture.

A cable-knit sweater, a textured blouse, or a cream top with subtle detailing adds depth and dimension. The texture helps the fabric feel more interesting on camera without relying on a bold pattern.

The takeaway: Choose color, texture, and thoughtful details over a flat, uninterrupted block of black or white.

2. Make sure your clothing fits well.

The right fit can make a bigger difference than the price tag on your outfit.

Choose clothing that follows your shape without pulling, bunching, or feeling restrictive. Extremely oversized clothing can look less structured on camera, while clothing that’s too tight may create unwanted pulling or creases.

Pay particular attention to the shoulders, neckline, and sleeves if you’re wearing a blazer or button-down shirt.

For women with curves, I recommend looking for pieces that fit comfortably through the shoulders and bust and skim your shape rather than pulling across it. A well-cut blouse, structured jacket, or dress with thoughtful tailoring can photograph beautifully.

You don’t need to hide your shape or dress to look smaller. The goal is to find clothing that fits the body you have today and helps you feel confident.

Quick tip: Try on your complete outfit before your session. Sit, stand, and move around in it. If you’re constantly adjusting your shirt or pulling at your jacket, choose something more comfortable.

3. Choose prints carefully.

I’m not opposed to patterns! A beautiful print can be a wonderful way to express your personality. But the scale and contrast of a pattern matter.

Very small, repetitive patterns can sometimes create a distracting visual effect in photographs. Large, high-contrast prints can draw attention away from your face.

Here’s an easy trick: the squint test.

Lay your outfit out and step back. Squint your eyes slightly. If the pattern still looks extremely bold or distracting, consider a different option.

Love a printed blouse? Pair it with a solid-colored blazer or cardigan. You’ll get the personality of the print with a little more balance.

When in doubt, a solid color with an interesting texture or design detail is a reliable choice.

4. Bring a blazer or jacket that fits properly.

A well-fitted blazer is one of the most versatile pieces you can bring to a headshot session. It adds structure, works well for many professional settings, and can give you a second look without changing your entire outfit.

Here’s what to look for:

• Shoulders: Choose a jacket that fits your natural shoulder line. Avoid excessive shoulder padding or an overly boxy fit.
• Sleeves: Make sure they’re not excessively wide or bunching around your wrists.
• Fit: Your jacket should close comfortably, without pulling across the buttons.
• Contrast: Choose a shirt or blouse underneath that contrasts with your jacket so the two pieces don’t disappear into one another.

You don’t need a traditional black blazer, either. A colorful jacket can look polished and modern while adding personality.

For a little variety, we can photograph you in your blazer and then without it. A simple change can give you two distinct looks for your LinkedIn profile, company website, or professional bio.

5. Pay attention to necklines, sleeves, and fabric.

These small choices can help your outfit feel polished and photograph well.

Necklines: V-necks, scoop necks, and open collars can create a nice visual line around your face and neck. Higher necklines and crew necks can also work beautifully. Choose what feels comfortable and suits your style.

Sleeves: Three-quarter-length and long sleeves are classic options for professional headshots. If you love sleeveless clothing, wear it! You don’t need to cover your arms to look professional. Choose an outfit that makes you feel comfortable and confident.

Fabric: Look for fabrics that drape well and hold their shape. Subtle textures add depth, while extremely stiff or highly reflective fabrics may bunch or catch the light.

Dresses: Don’t overlook a dress! A well-fitting dress can be an easy, polished option. Add a cardigan or jacket for another look.

6. Don’t overlook the little details.

You’ve picked the outfit. Now it’s time for the final once-over.

These are the small things people sometimes forget when preparing for headshots, but they’re easy to address before you step in front of the camera.

• Wrinkles: Make sure everything is clean and well pressed. Just say no to wrinkled clothes!
• Glasses: Clean your lenses with a microfiber cloth. Your photographer can help manage reflections during the session.
• Jewelry: Choose accessories that complement your outfit without overwhelming your face. Classic studs, hoops, necklaces, or a statement piece you love can all work.
• Collars and lapels: Check that everything sits neatly and isn’t folded or bunched.
• Lint and pet hair: Run a lint roller over your clothing, especially if you’re wearing dark colors.
• Buttons and zippers: Make sure everything is fastened correctly and sitting where it should.

If you’re wearing jewelry, glasses, and a jacket, try on the complete outfit together before your session. It’s much easier to make adjustments at home than to discover a problem when you’re already on camera.

7. A few extra tips for men.

If you’re preparing for a corporate headshot, bring a tie even if you don’t typically wear one to work.

We can photograph you with and without it, giving you options for different uses. A more formal portrait might be ideal for a leadership page, while a relaxed look may work better for LinkedIn or an internal staff directory.

Button-down shirts, sweaters, and well-fitted jackets are all good options depending on your industry and the image you want to convey.

If we’re creating full-length or group photographs, black or navy pants and dark-wash jeans can be versatile choices. Traditional headshots typically focus on the upper body, but it’s always helpful to be prepared.

And don’t forget…Iron those button up shirts!

8. Prepare your hair and makeup.

You don’t need a dramatic makeover to have a great headshot. The goal is to look like yourself on a really good day.

If you wear makeup, choose a look that feels polished but familiar. Bring powder or blotting papers if you tend to have oily skin.

For hair, stick with a style you’re comfortable wearing. If you’re planning a haircut or trying something new, give yourself time to get used to it before your session.

A few other reminders:

• Get a good night’s sleep if possible.
• Follow your usual skincare routine.
• Bring a brush or comb and any products you use for touch-ups.
• Avoid experimenting with unfamiliar beauty products right before your session.

9. Bring a backup outfit if you can.

If time allows, bring a second outfit to your headshot session.

For example, you might choose a blazer and blouse for a more formal look, then switch to a colorful top or sweater for something more relaxed.

This gives you flexibility when choosing photographs for your company website, LinkedIn profile, email signature, or professional bio.

If you’re having headshots taken as part of a corporate team, check with the team member coordinating the schedule about the time available and whether a second look makes sense.

10. Your photographer will help with the rest.

Here’s something I want every client to remember: you don’t have to know how to pose to have a great headshot.

Many people arrive feeling nervous about being in front of the camera. They worry about their smile, their posture, what to do with their hands, and whether they’ll look natural.

You don’t have to figure all of that out on your own.

As a former television news reporter, I’ve spent years helping people feel comfortable in front of a camera. During your session, I’ll guide you through posing and small adjustments to help you look confident, approachable, and authentically yourself.

My job is to help you look your best, not to leave you guessing whether you’re doing it right.

Your professional headshot cheat sheet

Save this list or run through it the night before your session.

• Clothing is clean, pressed, and free of wrinkles.
• My outfit fits comfortably and looks polished.
• I’ve chosen a flattering color rather than an entirely solid-black or solid-white top.
• My outfit has personality through color, texture, structure, or thoughtful details.
• My jacket, shirt, or blouse fits properly.
• My glasses are clean, and my jewelry is ready.
• I’ve checked for lint, pet hair, and stray threads.
• My hair and makeup are ready for the session.
• I’ve packed a second outfit or tie if desired.

That’s it! You don’t need a closet full of new clothes. You just need an outfit that fits well, photographs beautifully, and helps you feel like yourself.

Need professional headshots for yourself or your team?

At Tara Lynn & Co. Photography, I create professional headshots for individuals, businesses, and corporate teams throughout Raleigh, Cary, Durham, and the surrounding Triangle area.

Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn profile, stepping into a new leadership role, or coordinating portraits for your entire organization, I’ll help you navigate the process so you can feel prepared and confident in front of the camera.

Learn more about corporate headshot photography and let’s talk about creating polished, professional images for you or your team.

Want more advice? Read these related articles:

• How Often Should You Update Your Professional Headshot?
• How Professional Headshots Can Grow Your Confidence and Your Career

Have questions about what to wear? Bring them to your session. I’m happy to help you choose an outfit that looks professional, feels comfortable, and lets your personality shine.