Headshot Makeup Basics | Go Natural or Go Professional?

Professional headshots are a financial investment in your future. They are the currency of your professional reputation on business marketing materials and networking social media platforms like LinkedIn. There is just one question. Namely, is it worth investing in the services of a professional makeup artist before a headshot session?

Headshot Makeup Tips for Men

When it comes to headshot makeup, the rules differ considerably between men and women. Men in most cases should avoid using even so much as concealer. The only exception is if you wear makeup everyday. However, this is not to say that make grooming isn’t important. Men should always consider investing in a fresh haircut and professional beard trimming if they support facial hair. Like women, men should always make sure that their skin is hydrated and moisturized prior to a headshot session. When supporting a clean-shaven look, consider shaving again just before a headshot session, to avoid the creep of a 5 o'clock shadow.

Headshot Makeup Tips for Women

When it comes to women, makeup can be hugely important during a headshot photography session. Headshot makeup, though, should always look as natural as possible.

Don’t use eyeliner or dark lipstick shades which can result in a look more suitable for a night on the town than a job interview. Define eyes with mascara and lips with subtle shades of lipstick which accentuate natural lip lines. Do consider hiring a makeup artist, but (ideally) have them meet you at your headshot photography location. This way, you won’t have to worry about being ravaged by the weather after leaving home. Always use concealer, but never attempt to use heavy foundation to mask skin imperfections.

The most important pro headshot makeup tip is, of course, to always make sure your makeup matches the context of where the images will be used and your chosen outfit. More importantly, never worry about breakouts or bad skin days.

Embrace the Magic of Retouching

During a headshot photography session, a photographer will take hundreds of shots to capture your perfect pose and lighting. When you select an image to use, this will then be professionally retouched using Photoshop. This being the case, never worry about slight skin imperfections or even severe acne breakouts.

How to Hire a Hair and Makeup Artist

Every headshot photography business is different. Some might provide a hair and makeup artist, others won’t. Conversely, some studios might not be able to accommodate a hair and makeup artist setting up prior to a headshot session. For this reason, always contact studios in advance of booking a photography session, to ask what is and what might not be possible. Josh Line of Josh Line Photography says: "Whether you do your makeup yourself or hire someone, they should be able to do light and clean makeup for a headshot. Ask to see their work beforehand because headshot makeup is very different from other styles."

What to Wear for a Professional Headshot

A business headshot is an integral part of your personal brand identity. You might not own your own business. However, the right headshot can see you get headhunted on places like LinkedIn, by people you need to take your career to the next level. There is just one question. Namely, what kind of attire should you wear to a headshot photography session?

Headshot Clothing Basics

Every headshot tells a story and what you wear for a headshot session will tell yours. My friend Norman of Norman Jaillet Photography says: "It’s the appearance of something, or someone that leaves an impression; sloppy, disheveled, well-groomed, expert … and on and on. Your image creates words in someone’s mind."

Business Headshots for Women

When it comes to headshot clothing, most women elect to wear a jacket or blazer during headshot sessions. However, it is important not to feel restricted in terms of attire. Often, dresses worn with jewelry like necklaces can result in headshots which catch the eye more effectively. Just remember never to overdo things. If wearing a dress or blouse, remember that plunging necklines might be cut off in a finished photo. In this case, never go too low.

Regardless of what you wear, you can ask to see a sample of the background you will be photographed against, before your shoot. This will help you co-ordinate garment colors accordingly. If wearing just a blouse or shirt, remember not to look too casual. Usually, casual headshots only work well for people in fashion and the arts. When electing to wear a jacket or blazer, avoid sheer white colors, and always choose a fit which helps exemplify your upper body language.

When planning a headshot photography session, make sure also to avoid heavily patterned clothing. Solid colors always work better against headshot backgrounds. Don’t be afraid to experiment with color, though. Bold colors can often add more character to a headshot than grey or black can. You can always go against these rules - if you love it, bring it.

Business Headshots for Men

When it comes to headshot clothing, men have fewer styling options than women. Short sleeves often don’t work well in headshots. Suits and blazers are, therefore, the go-to option for most men. However, there are still ways to help your personality shine during photography sessions. Mix and match different tie and shirt combinations. Darker colors are best. However, bolder can be better in creative business niches. Never wear sheer white shirts or shiny materials. Gloss and reflected light can result in headshots which look plastic and insincere. Always get a fresh haircut a few days before a headshot, so that you get used to it, and if you have considerable amount of facial hair, think about allowing a professional barber to refine your look for you.

Headshot Photography Tips for Both Male and Female

Regardless of whether you are male or female, it is always a good idea to take at least one extra change of clothing to a headshot session. This way, last-minute fashion crises can be avoided. Photographers will also be able to tell you what attire they feel is most appropriate.

How To Prepare For a Headshot Session

Few people admit it. However, preparing for a headshot can be overwhelming. Everyone is self-conscious about their appearance. Business headshots, therefore, always take people out of their comfort zone. The good news is that anyone can get fantastic results. All that is necessary, is a little preparation.

5 Tips for a Great Business Headshot Session

Are you are thinking about booking a business headshot session? If so, the earlier you start preparing, the better your results will be.

1 - Rest, Relax and Re-Hydrate

Business headshots put your face in front of the world for all to see. It is, therefore, important to look and feel your best. With this in mind, rest, relaxation, and hydration are of paramount importance. Always schedule a headshot for a time when you are under the least amount of stress. Mondays are a good choice, as this can allow you to fully rest over the weekend. Matthew Hamilton of MHamiltonVisuals says: "Make sure to get a full 8 hours of sleep the night before your session in order to ensure you look your best!" A tired complexion is often the result of fatigue and dehydration. Sleep well, up your water intake, and you won’t have to worry about tired eyes before your headshot session.

2 - Practice Your Posture and Expression

For the most part, actor headshots are easy. Actors spend years learning how to express themselves and have their confidence shine in front of a camera. Sadly, most business people don’t have this skill. You can express yourself. However, most of the time, you probably don’t know how you look expressing yourself. Practice your best confident, yet approachable poses in front of a mirror. Decide on what you feel is your best side and your best smile. Consider trialing different outfits with different expressions, to see how what you wear can complement your body language.

3 - Choose Your Outfit, Makeup and Hair Style in Advance

During a business headshot session, feeling comfortable in the skin you are in, is hugely important. With this in mind, one of the worst things people can do is pick and choose their headshot outfit at the last minute. Instead, choose outfits ahead of time, and like we’ve already mentioned, practice your posture.
When in doubt concerning what to wear, draw inspiration from headshots you can find online from respected peers. Decide how you will wear your hair and makeup, and make sure your look matches your outfit.
When choosing your outfit, remember that you will be photographed against a solid color background. This being the case, avoid patterns in favor of solid colors which complement your eye color, skin tone, and hairstyle.

4 - Pack a Bag and Remember to Moisturize

During a headshot photography session, hundreds of pictures can be taken. This helps you and your photographer capture at least one image you will feel confident using. However, this also means that sessions can take some time. It is, therefore, always a good idea to pack a small bag ready for your headshot session.

Pack water, something to snack on, and consider packing an extra jacket in case you have an outfit crisis at the last minute. Always pack makeup and hairspray (if you wear makeup and hairspray) to touch up your appearance after you arrive. Moisturize intensively before your headshot session. Consider also packing moisturizer in case you have to attend your headshot on a cold day, which can leave skin feeling dry and chaffed.

5 - Relax. Possibly With Music

During a headshot photography session, you are going to be in an unfamiliar place, with an unfamiliar person directing your body language. This can leave nerves frayed. Thankfully, there are easy ways to make yourself feel more at ease. Consider making a playlist or choosing a music album you like, to play during your headshot session. Never be afraid to ask your photographer questions, nor tell them if you feel uncomfortable at any point. Remember not to worry about slight skin imperfections or even bad hair days. All reputable headshot photographers will professionally retouch images to make you look your best.

Siting for Business Headshots Doesn’t Have to be Stressful

All of the above tips should make preparing for a headshot photography session easy. When in doubt, simply relax, breathe, and remember that a headshot session isn’t like a dentist visit. If you need to take a break or don’t feel comfortable, let your photographer know and he or she will be more than happy to give you the time you need to relax and continue.