Men’s Styling Guide : What To Wear For Headshot Photos

When preparing for a professional headshot photography session, it's important to choose attire that conveys professionalism and suits your personal style while also looking good on camera. Here are some guidelines for men:

Clothing Choices

1. Suit or Blazer

   • Suit: A well-fitted suit is a great choice for a classic look. Darker colors like navy, charcoal, or black work well.

   • Blazer: If you prefer a more relaxed look, a blazer can be paired with dress pants or chinos. Stick to solid colors or subtle patterns.

2. Dress Shirt

   • Opt for a button-down dress shirt. Light colors (like white, light blue, or pastel shades) often photograph well and provide a nice contrast with darker suits or blazers.

3. Tie (optional):

   • Wearing a tie can add formality. Choose a tie that complements your outfit but avoid overly busy patterns. A solid color or subtle pattern can be a good choice.

4. Pants:

   • If you’re not wearing a suit, select well-fitting dress pants or chinos in neutral or complementary colors.

5. Shoes:

   • Wear polished dress shoes that match your outfit. Leather shoes in black or brown are usually a safe bet.

Accessories:

• Watch: A classic watch can add a touch of professionalism.

• Belt: Make sure your belt matches your shoes.

• Grooming Items: If you wear jewelry (like cufflinks), keep it subtle and professional.

Avoid:

• Busy Patterns: Avoid loud patterns, stripes, or logos that can distract from your face.

• Wrinkled or Ill-Fitting Clothing: Ensure everything is clean, pressed, and fits well.

• Casual Attire: Items like t-shirts, hoodies, or overly casual shoes should be avoided in a professional headshot.

• Ill-fitting Clothing: Ensure your clothes fit well—nothing too tight or baggy. A tailored jacket or button-up shirt can instantly uplift your look. Remember, ill-fitting clothes can be unflattering and may negatively impact your overall presence.

Final Tips:

• Test the Outfit: Consider taking a few test photos in your outfit to see how it looks on camera.

• Consider the Background: Think about how your clothing colors will contrast against the backdrop in the headshot.

• Feeling Comfortable: Wear something you feel confident and comfortable in, as it will reflect in your expressions and posture.

• Solid Colors: Wearing solid colors, muted tones like navy, charcoal, or earth tones to create a classic and timeless look.

•  Layer Wisely: Consider layering your outfit with a blazer or sweater over a collared shirt. This adds depth to your appearance and gives a polished touch. Choose layers that coordinate well and create a cohesive look.

• While professionalism is key, it’s essential to wear clothes that reflect your personal style. Whether it’s a subtle pattern in your tie or a unique button-down, these small touches can help convey authenticity.

Hello! I'm Tomiko, your headshot photographer. With extensive experience, I’ve helped hundreds create perfect headshots. The key is to look like yourself while appearing polished and professional. Choose an outfit that makes you feel confident—be bold! If you need guidance, just reach out. We also have a personal stylist to help you with your outfit choices.

-Tomiko