Preparing for a Headshot Session
In our many years of documenting client’s brand stories via photography and videography we can almost guarantee that at some point leading up to the shoot our client will reach out with one of the following comments:
“I’m so excited, but I get so awkward + nervous in front of the camera! I’m not photogenic!”
“I have no idea how to prepare for a photoshoot. What should I bring? What should I wear?”
and last but not least, the age old question we’ve all asked before being photographed…
“Where do I look and what do I do with my hands?”
Take a deep breath– we are here to help.
1. First things first: authenticity is key
Don’t get a new haircut, or wear makeup you wouldn’t normally wear, or decide today is the day you are going to don that fashionable outfit from the back of your closet that you still aren’t so sure about.
The best thing you can wear on photoshoot day is exactly what makes you feel comfortable. That might be a suit or a sweatshirt, that part is up to you. But be yourself! You will feel better and look better.
2. Consider your brand.
These photos should feel like you and your business. Wear whatever you would wear to work on an important, but average work day.
We also highly recommend bringing along a few of your favorite books, your computer or other work equipment, a notebook or planner, favorite coffee mug, or any other small items that represent you and your business. These props can really increase the variety of shots we can get during your session and also help you have something to interact with, usually making the shoot more comfortable if you’re feeling nervous.
Note: if shooting at the NowNow space, various plants and stools will be available to us, but other props are on you.
3. Consider equipment.
If (and only if) you are being video recorded, you will need to wear a small lapel mic so that we can pick up your voice. This is easiest to use when you are wearing a collar or a layer (jacket, cardigan, or sweater) so that the mic doesn’t stand out on a t-shirt or seamless top.
4. What to avoid
Refer to number 1, and remember there is a wide array of what can be considered fabulous. That said, we strongly recommend avoiding mint and lavender, regardless of complexion or hair color. The reason being mint and lavender are muted pastels of green and magenta, which are key for color-balancing photos. Don’t worry too much about it, so long as you avoid those colors.
Patterns are actually quite welcome, contrary to popular belief, so long as they do not distract from your face and so long as you are not being shot next to a teammate wearing a different pattern (i.e. don’t wear paisley if your teammate is wearing stripes). Texture and layers are another great way in addition to color to give your photos some pop!
5. What to do with your body and hands during the shoot itself
Don’t overthink this. We’re going to have music playing and a fun vibe going. Show up as yourself, and be ready to simply have fun. We can prompt you with various poses or facial expressions (and if we don’t get you organically laughing by the end, then we haven’t done our job well). If you have a favorite pose or power stance, we absolutely want your ideas. This is a collaborative creative process and the more invested in the experience you are, the happier you will be with your photos!
6. What to expect
We want you to be comfortable, first and foremost. Come ready to chat and hang out, send in your favorite playlist request if you desire, and try not to overthink any of the above items. We’ll ease into things and play around with lighting, framing, and props in the process, so that you feel confident with what we’re capturing. We promise: the time will go by in a blink once we’re in the groove!
Headshots are an investment in yourself and in your brand! Congratulations on making this step and we’ll see you so soon.
