A good business headshot helps you communicate in a nanosecond who you are and what you do. Your headshot is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your authentic brand, so make the most of it. Remember the focus for the business or professional headshot is your face. Everything including the background, lighting and clothing should be kept simple to frame your face.
1. Color
Plain colors are your best choice. Patterns or prints distract and date your photo. Choose mid- tone colors in blue, green, wine and purple because they are universally flattering. Color and patterns
It’s tempting to stick with black and white, but don’t do it. If you know your colors, bring items from that palette, or try hues that bring out your eye color and enhance your skin tone. Rich colors and jewel tones (emerald or sapphire blue, Purple, green and red) are great choices for almost all women.
2. Style
What not to wear:
short sleeves or sleeveless styles
busy patterns or plaids
turtlenecks and shiny fabrics
and seasonal styles and fabrics.
3. Neckline
A modest v-neck is universally flattering because it lengthens the neck. If you choose to wear a jacket, pair it with a collarless top. This is modern and keeps the neckline simple and sleek. Crisply ironed shirts by themselves frame the face really well.
4. Jewelry
Keep it really simple, choose simple earrings and necklaces. They keep the focus on the face. Big statement jewelry will date your photos.
5. Coordinate to the background
Most common background for headshots are white and dark gray. I personally like white background because it look very sleek and modern. Consider medium to dark colors and tones for more contrast on white background. If the background is very dark, you can wear light or vivid colors. I really like red on a black background.
Some final tips:
Don’t wear your portrait wardrobe in the car; seat belts = wrinkles. Instead, bring your clean, neatly pressed pieces to the session on hangers.
For business headshots, bring at least two to three outfits; for talent headshots or for a full portfolio shoot, six to eight outfits is probably more reasonable.