Your Best Headshot
Starts Here.
What to wear, what to expect, and how to make the most of your session.
A great headshot starts
before you walk in.
I've photographed hundreds of corporate teams, and the sessions that go the smoothest have one thing in common: people showed up prepared. Not perfectly coiffed, not nervous, not overthinking it. Just ready.
This guide covers exactly what to wear, what to skip, and what to expect when it's your turn in front of the camera. It takes about five minutes to read and makes a real difference in how your photos turn out.
My job is to make you look like the best version of yourself. Your job is to trust the process, and maybe get a good night's sleep the night before.
What to wear (and why it matters)
01
Stick to solid colors
Bold patterns, busy prints, and fine stripes create visual noise on camera. Solid colors keep the focus where it belongs: your face. Jewel tones, navy, charcoal, white, and cream all photograph beautifully.
02
Choose timeless over trendy
Your headshot may be in use for years. Classic pieces like a well-fitted blazer, tailored collar, or clean crew neck hold up. Anything too of-the-moment can date the photo faster than you'd expect.
03
Fit is everything
Clothing that pulls, gaps, or hangs will show in the photo. Wear something you've worn before and know fits well. When in doubt, slightly fitted beats too loose every time.
04
Bring a backup top if you're unsure
Not sure between two options? Bring both. My team is happy to take a quick look and help you choose what will photograph best. It takes 30 seconds and can make a real difference.
05
Keep jewelry simple
Since these are headshots, only what frames your face and neckline matters. Small earrings and a simple necklace photograph beautifully. Skip anything very large, dangling, or highly reflective.
06
Match your actual role
Think about how your clients and colleagues see you day to day. Your headshot should feel true to that. If you never wear a tie, skip it. If you're always in a blazer, wear the blazer. Authenticity reads on camera.
The short version: yes and no.
Wear
Skip
What to expect when it's your turn.
Check in at the session area and let someone from the team know you're there. We run on a tight schedule to respect everyone's time, so arriving when it's your turn (not earlier) helps keep things flowing smoothly.
Take a moment to check your outfit, hair, and collar before stepping in front of the camera. If touch-up services are available at your session, use them. That's exactly what they're there for.
Each individual session runs about 5 to 10 minutes. I'll walk you through posing. You don't need to know what to do with your hands, your chin, or your expression. That's my job. Clear, gentle direction the whole way through.
Depending on how your session is set up, you'll either choose your favorite image on the spot or receive an individual gallery link to make your selection later. Either way, you'll be in control of which photo gets retouched.
Your retouched image will be delivered within 5 to 7 business days of the session, in both high-resolution and web-optimized formats, ready for LinkedIn, your company website, email signature, or wherever you need it.
You probably have a few questions.
Almost everyone says this, and almost everyone is wrong about themselves. A lot of what people call "not being photogenic" is really just never having had good direction in front of a camera. I'll coach you through your expression, posture, and angle in real time. By the end of your session, you'll feel differently. Read more about feeling confident on camera.
In many cases, yes. I shoot tethered, which means your images appear on a monitor in real time. Depending on your session setup, you may be able to choose your favorite image before you leave. Your coordinator will have details on how selection works for your specific session.
Yes, but give it a week or two. A very fresh cut can look sharp in a way that reads as stiff on camera, and it takes a few days to settle into your natural shape. If you color your hair, the same timing applies.
Please let your coordinator know right away. Group sessions run on a schedule, so late arrivals can affect everyone who comes after you. I'll do my best to fit you in, but I can't guarantee additional time if the session is behind schedule.
If your session includes professional touch-ups or hair and makeup, arrive with a clean face and let the artist work from there. If you're doing your own, go slightly more polished than a normal workday since camera lights can wash things out. Matte finishes tend to photograph better than very dewy or shimmery products.
Retouched images are delivered within 5 to 7 business days. You'll receive a private link to download your files in full resolution and web size. If you need your image sooner, reach out to your coordinator and we can discuss options.
A great photo is only part of the equation. Read about the most common LinkedIn headshot mistakes so you know exactly how to use your image once it's delivered.
Retouching includes skin refinement, color correction, flyaway removal, and wardrobe cleanup, all while keeping a natural, professional look. The goal is to look like the best version of yourself, not like someone else.
Relax. I've
got you.
I've been doing this for nearly 15 years, and the one thing I know for certain is that the best photos come from the most relaxed people. You don't need a model smile or perfect posture or a clue what to do with your hands.
Show up as yourself. I'll handle the rest.
Questions? Reach out to your session coordinator or contact me directly at info@taushadickinson.com
