One of the most common questions I get before a session is: "What should I wear?" It's a fair question — you want to look your best, and what you wear plays a bigger role in your photos than most people realize. The good news is it doesn't have to be complicated.
Here's everything you need to know before you show up at the studio.
The most important rule: wear what makes you feel good
This sounds simple, but it's genuinely the best advice I can give. When you feel comfortable and confident in what you're wearing, it shows in your face — and that's what makes a great headshot. Don't wear something just because you think it looks "professional" if it makes you feel stiff or unlike yourself.
Colors that photograph well
Some colors work beautifully on camera. Others create problems. Here's a quick guide:
Great choices:
Deep, rich tones — navy, forest green, burgundy, charcoal
Muted earth tones — olive, rust, tan, dusty blue
Classic black and white (both work well in the studio)
Jewel tones if they complement your skin tone
Colors to avoid:
Neon or very bright colors — they can cast unwanted color onto your face
Colors that closely match your skin tone — they tend to wash you out
Pure white against a white background — though in my studio we can adjust the backdrop to work around this
A note on our studio backdrops: My downtown Columbus studio has one of the most extensive backdrop selections you'll find anywhere — from classic white, black, and grey seamless paper to textured cloth options like Aqua, Blue, Distressed, Brown, and more. We also have colored seamless options including Ultramarine, Evergreen, Marine, Crimson, Marmalade, Olive, and Cocoa. If you haven’t picked out the color beforehand, wwe'll figure out together which backdrop works best with what you're wearing when you arrive.
Bonus — backdrop replacement in post: If your hair is straight and doesn't have a lot of flyaways or wispy edges, I can usually replace the backdrop entirely in post production with virtually any color or pattern you want. This opens up a lot of creative options beyond what we physically have in the studio. Just mention it when you book and we'll talk through what's possible for your look.
Taken against a white backdrop
Edited in post production to match existing images
Patterns and prints
Generally speaking, solid colors photograph better than patterns. Busy prints, bold stripes, and large logos can distract from your face — which is the whole point of a headshot. Small, subtle textures like a light herringbone or fine knit are usually fine.
If you love a particular patterned piece and want to bring it, bring it — we'll see how it looks on camera and decide from there.
Bring more than you think you'll need
You're welcome to bring as many outfit options as you like, free of charge. In my experience we usually get through 3 looks in a session, but having more options gives us flexibility. Better to have too many choices than to wish you'd brought that other jacket.
You can change in the studio — there's space for that. If we're shooting on location, I have a changing tent that sets up quickly.
Outfit 1/Backdrop 1
Outfit 1/Backdrop 2
Outfit 2/Backdrop 1
Grooming tips
A few things that make a real difference on camera:
Hair: Style it the way you normally would for an important meeting or event. If you color your hair, try to schedule your session after a fresh color, not right before it's due.
Skin: Moisturize the day before. For oily skin, a light mattifying product can help reduce shine under studio lights. Pleas avoid tanning or tanning cream.
Makeup: Go slightly more defined than your everyday look — studio lighting can soften features. That said, don't overdo it. Natural always photographs better than overdone.
Facial hair: If you're keeping it, tidy it up beforehand. If you're shaving, do it the morning of.
Nails: If you're doing any poses where your hands are visible, make sure they're clean and well-groomed.
What about accessories?
Jewelry and accessories are fine — just keep them simple. A watch, simple earrings, or a classic necklace can add polish without distracting. Avoid anything too large or flashy that pulls attention away from your face.
Don't overthink the poses either
Once you're in the studio, I'll guide you through the whole session. A lot of clients come in nervous about what to do with their hands or how to stand — don't worry about it. I'll take the lead and get you comfortable before we shoot anything. If you have reference photos of poses or styles you like, bring those along and we'll use them as a starting point.
Ready to book your session?
My studio is located in downtown Columbus near COSI and BrewDog at 289 W. Walnut Street, Suite 13. Street parking and a free gravel lot are right outside. When you arrive, text me and I'll meet you at the purple door.
Book your session here or get in touch if you have any questions first. And if you want to see the full backdrop selection before your session, check it out here.