Are you planning a new set of headshots? Read over these easy to follow tips to help get the most out of your photos.
- Think about the ideal way you’d like your photos to look. How do you want to be perceived? People often use your portrait as a first impression so it needs to be a good reflection of who you are. Wear something that portrays the character and emotion you want to convey.
- Wear colours that harmonise with your eyes, hair and skin tone. If you haven’t already, have your colours analysed by a trained consultant. The right colours make you look fresh and radiant, they bring you into focus, define and clarify your features, smoothen your complexion and maximise your presence. The wrong colours will drain you and make you look tired - they work against you rather than for you and they minimise your presence.
- Wear solid colour clothing. Something with too many colours or patterns will distract and won’t come across well on camera. Avoid clothing with words or large logos.
- Wear clothes you feel comfortable in, flatter your body shape and reflect your personal style. You want these photos to be authentic and an accurate reflection of who you are - don’t try to be anything you’re not. If you need help defining your personal style, have your style analysed by a trained consultant. Bring a variety of outfits to the shoot so you have options at hand while on set.
- Make sure jewellery doesn’t distract from you. If it is a bold piece, make sure it ties in really well with your brand. Keep it simple and keep it you! You might want to incorporate a simple (solid colour) scarf, lipstick, some nice earrings or glasses - consider colour and style.
- Ladies - don’t overdo the makeup. Less is more! Wear the right makeup shades and you will have an impact without the need for tons of product (colour analysis gives you answers here if you’re not sure).
- Make sure your hair is neat and styled in a way that represents your most authentic personal style. It’s best to go for a simple, neat look. If wearing your hair down, make sure there’s nothing obstructing your face.
- Consider backgrounds and discuss this with your photographer in advance of the session. The right background helps to bring your image together. A little more planning is needed if you’re going to be outdoors. Knowing what types of backgrounds you want will also help when choosing your outfit.
- Practise your looks in a mirror before your shoot. This might feel uncomfortable at first but means it will feel much more natural when you get in front of the camera. Try poses in left profile, straight on and right profile, and see which angles represent you best.
If you would like any further advice about headshots (or anything else colour and style related!) please don't hesitate to contact me by email - michaela.sargeant@houseofcolour.co.uk - my webpage, or on social media via Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn