One of the most common questions I get as a professional headshot photographer is: What should I wear for my headshots?

After 30+ years as a photographer, I can simplify this for you: the best headshots happen when you look like yourself on a really good day.

Not someone else. Not overly styled. Just you—confident, approachable, and authentically professional.

Here’s what actually works.

Solid Colors Are Your Foundation

Patterns pull attention away from your face. Logos do the same. Stripes can create visual interference. In a headshot, your face is the focal point—everything else should support that, not compete with it.

Stick with solid colors. They’re clean, timeless, and keep the focus exactly where it belongs.

Colors that consistently photograph well:

• Navy and deeper blues
• Charcoal, gray, and medium grays
• Black (though not required)
• Burgundy, wine, or muted reds
• Forest green, emerald, or sage
• Earth tones like tan, taupe, and warm browns

Colors to approach carefully:

• Bright white (off-white and cream are better alternatives)
• Neon or very bright colors (can reflect onto your skin)
• Colors that wash you out (hold them up to your face in natural light to check)

After photographing hundreds of professionals over the years, I’ve seen this play out repeatedly: clients arrive worried about making a bold choice or following the latest trend, then instantly relax when they switch into a clean, well-fitted solid color. Their posture improves. Their expression softens. The photos immediately look more confident. It’s not magic—it’s just removing visual noise so your natural presence can come through.

Fit Matters More Than Style

Clothing that fits well looks professional. Clothing that’s too tight or too loose creates distractions.

You want something that looks polished without making you think about it during the session. If you’re tugging at sleeves, adjusting a collar, or conscious of how something sits, it’ll show in your expression.

What works well:

• Blazers and structured jackets
• Button-down shirts (pressed and wrinkle-free)
• Blouses with clean lines
• Sweaters in fine knits
• Professional tops with good structure

Necklines that photograph well:

• Crew necks and V-necks
• Collared shirts
• Scoop necks and modest necklines

What to avoid:

• Very low-cut or revealing tops
• Turtlenecks (can sometimes create a bunched look)
• Sleeveless tops (sleeves are almost always a safer bet)
• Extremely high or unusual necklines that draw more attention than your face

The guiding principle: If something draws attention to itself in the mirror, it will draw even more attention in a photograph.

Fabric Choices

Some fabrics photograph better than others.

Good choices:

• Cotton and cotton blends
• Wool (especially for blazers and structured pieces)
• Matte fabrics in general

Be cautious with:

• Very shiny or reflective materials
• Heavily textured fabrics
• Anything wrinkled (a quick steam makes a big difference)

Layering Adds Dimension

One of the easiest ways to add visual interest is through simple layering. A blazer over a solid shirt. A cardigan over a simple top.

Layers create depth in a photo and give you options during the session. We can shoot with the jacket, then without it for a slightly different look—all in the same session.

Just keep your layers in complementary solid colors.

Keep Accessories Minimal

Jewelry: Simple and understated works best. Small earrings, a classic watch, a simple necklace. Large statement pieces can distract from your face.

Glasses: If you wear them regularly, wear them in your headshot. They’re part of your professional identity. Just make sure they’re clean and avoid frames with heavy reflective coatings if possible.

Consider Your Context

Where will these photos be used?

Corporate & Finance (Credibility): Suits, blazers, button-downs. Navy, gray, black. Clean and traditional always reads as trustworthy.

Creative Fields (Personality): You have more flexibility, but solid colors still work better than patterns. Show personality through color choices and slightly less formal styling.

Medical & Healthcare (Approachability): Professional but warm. Business casual—blazers, cardigans, collared shirts in softer colors. You want to look competent without being intimidating.

Real Estate & Sales (Connection): Polished and personable. Blazers, solid colors, professional but warm. You’re selling yourself as much as your service.

Entrepreneurs & Personal Brands (Authenticity): This is where your personality can shine more. You still want solid colors and good fit, but you have room to be less formal if that matches your brand.

What to Bring

If you’re unsure between two outfits, bring both. We can start with one, see how it looks, and switch if needed.

Also helpful:

• A lint roller
• A small mirror for quick checks
• Any items you wear regularly that make you feel confident

The Real Goal

Here’s what I’ve learned over the years: the “perfect” outfit doesn’t exist. What does exist is clothing that makes you feel confident and comfortable enough to be present during the session.

When you’re not thinking about your appearance, your authentic professional self comes through. That’s what creates a great headshot—not the brand of blazer you’re wearing or whether you chose navy or charcoal.

So yes, follow these guidelines. Choose solid colors, make sure everything fits well, keep it simple. But also trust yourself. If you put something on and feel like the professional version of yourself, that’s usually the right choice.

The clothing is just the frame. You’re the photograph.

Quick Checklist

YES:

• Solid colors that complement your skin tone
• Well-fitted, comfortable clothing
• Clean, pressed fabrics
• Simple accessories
• Something that makes you feel confident

AVOID:

• Busy patterns or logos
• Neon or overly bright colors
• Wrinkled or ill-fitting clothing
• Distracting jewelry
• Anything trendy that will date your photos

Common Headshot Wardrobe Questions

Should I bring more than one outfit? Yes. Two solid options give you flexibility and peace of mind. We can start with one, see how it photographs, and switch if needed.

Can you help me choose on the day of the session? Absolutely. I’ll guide you based on lighting, background, and how each outfit photographs. That’s part of what I’m here for.

Do I need to dress differently for LinkedIn vs my website? Usually no. A well-chosen professional headshot works across platforms. The context is in how you use it, not the outfit itself.

What if I’m still unsure what works best? Bring a couple of options or send me a quick photo beforehand. I’ll help you decide so you can show up relaxed and confident.

Ready for Your Headshot Session

I’ve been a photographer for over 30 years, serving professionals and businesses across Northern New Jersey, NYC metro area, Long Island, and the Hudson Valley. My approach is straightforward: create a relaxed environment where you can be yourself, and capture images that represent the real you—confident, professional, and authentic.

If you’re unsure what to wear, that’s completely normal. Most people are.

Bring a couple of options or send me a quick photo beforehand. I’ll help you decide so you can focus on showing up relaxed and confident. When you’re not thinking about your clothes, that’s when the best headshots happen.

Whether you need corporate headshots, branding photography, or updated professional images for LinkedIn, your website, or marketing materials, let’s create something that represents exactly who you are professionally.

Ready to book? Contact me at 917-992-9097 or visit AlexKaplanPhoto.com to schedule your session.