How to Prepare for a Professional Headshot Session

Written By Paul Rich

There are a large number of reasons why you may be looking to have a professional headshot captured — ranging from a new job or promotion, updating sites like LinkedIn or a local networking group, launching a new business or personal website, an upcoming speaking engagement, and many others — and we want to help you maximize your investment.

Proper preparation for a headshot session will make a huge difference in how confident, approachable, and professional you look. Here’s a checklist of tips to help you get the best results:

Choose the Right Outfits

  • Keep it simple and solid – Avoid busy patterns, logos, or distracting prints.

  • Dress for your industry – Business attire for corporate, smart casual for creatives, etc.

  • Colors that flatter you – Jewel tones (navy, emerald, burgundy) are camera-friendly. Avoid stark white unless under a blazer or layer.

  • Fit is key – Tailored clothes always look better in photos.

  • Bring a few options (2–3 tops/jackets) for variety

Grooming and Personal Care

  • Hair – Recommend getting a fresh cut a few days before; style neatly the day of. Do not recommend capturing your professional headshot on the same day as a new hair cut.

  • Makeup (if you wear it) – Aim for natural, matte, and photo-ready. Avoid heavy shimmer or SPF-heavy foundations.

  • Shave or groom facial hair – Clean or shaped up, depending on your look.

  • Skincare – Stay hydrated, moisturize, and avoid new products right before your session.

Professional headshot of a business man in Portland, OR

Rest and Hydration

  • Get a good night’s sleep – Reduces puffiness and improves skin tone.

  • Drink water the day before – Helps skin look fresh and reduces under-eye shadows.

  • Avoid alcohol and salty food – They can lead to bloating or redness.

professional headshot captured by Paul Rich Studio of a woman smiling outdoors

Practice Posing and Expression

  • Look in a mirror or take selfies to explore your best angles and natural expressions.

  • Practice a relaxed smile, slight head tilt, and confident eye contact.

  • Think: “warm, approachable, confident”—your expression should reflect your personality.

Business portrait of a woman captured by professional headshot photographer Paul Rich Studio

Communicate With Your Photographer

  • Share your goals (LinkedIn, acting, personal brand, etc.).

  • Ask about background options, lighting style (natural vs. studio), and outfit changes.

  • Let them know about anything you’re self-conscious about (e.g., asymmetry, skin concerns, posture).

Professional headshot example of a male and a female businessperson captured by Paul Rich Studio

Day-of Logistics

  • Arrive a few minutes early to settle in.

  • Bring a comb, lint roller and touch-up makeup.

  • Avoid wearing sunglasses prior to and leading up to your headshot session.

Ready to schedule your professional headshot session or researching photographers to potentially hire? Make sure to save this information as reference so your upcoming professional headshot session will be a true success.

We offer professional headshot sessions throughout the Portland, OR, Vancouver, WA and surrounding areas. We have a casual headshot studio located in Camas, WA and regularly travel to offer on-location headshot session as well.

Paul Rich https://www.paulrichstudio.com
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