A Perfect headshot is 50% prep and 50% Photography. Preparation is key for getting your best headshot. You are about to have a new kind of headshot experience that will help you stand out from the crowd. The goal of updating your headshot with Warped Vision Photography, is to show the best version of you. (That way we can look our best digitally everyday!) The lighting will be amazing, and we will accentuate your best angles, but you will be in front of the camera, so it’s important that you arrive ready. The bottom line is that you’ve made a commitment of time and money to have a perfectly imperfect headshot session. I recommend looking your best head to toe. You’ll photograph better if you look your best. (No shame changing into leisurewear after the session)
Men
1.Visit your barber or hair stylist beforehand.
Most men look great after having their haircut/and or styled. Avoid going the same day as your session. Sometimes irritation will be visible (not to mention left over hair clippings somewhere). If you have a beard, trim and or shape it. It's important to have a nice shaped beard as it will effect your jawline. If you have a clean jawline, avoid shaving the day of the session.
2. Choose The Right Outfit.
Generally people usually want to match what is standard for their company or their field. If you aren’t sure, share your company’s website with me and let me know what profession you are in.
Blazers/Jackets are your friend. You can take them on and off and we can asses which is more to your liking.
Avoid patterns.
If you have gained or lost weight take this opportunity to get a new shirt and coat that fits you perfectly. Clothes that are too tight restrict your movement while posing and ones that are too big can make you look disheveled. Something I cant stress enough, have your clothes iron or steamed before the session. Pay extra attention to the collar area.
Bonus Tip: Wear a color that matches your eye color. Complimentary colors (i.e blue and green, Brown and Orange) is a good second choice.
If you plan on bringing a tie, bring some options for your shirt. If we decide to remove your tie for a more casual look, we will have different options for a shirt. A crisp spread collar shirt photographs well. T-shirts and Henley style shirts can work for a casual look as well. Test the different outfits at home beforehand and see if you like the look. If you choose to wear a tie in some of the shots, keep tie patterns to a minimum.
We want the focus on your face, not on your tie. A wider tie tends to photograph better than a narrow one. The widest part of your tie that is showing in a headshot should ideally match the widest part of the your lapel of your jacket.The most photogenic knots for your tie are the half and double Windsor knot. They fill up the area where the collar buttons the best. If you don’t feel comfortable doing a Windsor knot just make sure that whichever knot you do is centered and not too loose.
3. Tweezers and trimmers are your friends.
Check your ears and nose for extra hair, especially if you have a clean shave look. Those extra hairs can pop out of your ears and will possibly bother you later.
Women
1. Hair Styling and Makeup is Essential.
If you never wear make up, and love to look natural; this part is for you. Photos that you view online or in person are flat in nature, versus in real life where we can see different dimensions, (like a cube.) Makeup in photos helps to give your face dimension and definition. Additionally the lights that are used during shoots are very powerful (Especially if you decide to take photos outside in the sun!). They can make you look shinier than you really are. The makeup artist Warped Vision Photography refers always has some translucent powder on hand to bring down the shiny/reflective skin.
Below is an example of before makeup and after make up.
Getting your hair and makeup done professionally right before the shoot is recommended. I personally refer make up artist for each session. If you choose to get your hair and makeup done on your own, be sure to tell your makeup artist that you are looking for a natural beat. Avoid getting a full glam (unless you are taking a beauty headshot) You want to still look like you, just the best possible version of you. If you prefer to do your own makeup, practice the look a few days in advance. Be sure to use an eye lash curler and some mascara. It will really open up your eyes and make your lashes look longer without the need for false lashes. The most important part is to make sure your face matches your neck in terms of skin tone.
Roots should be touched up as well if you regularly color your hair. Don’t do a drastic change, you still want to look like your daily self. Having your hair blown out and styled right before your shoot would be the best option.
2. Tweezers, waxing, and threading are your friends.
Within the same week of your session, have your eyebrows or threaded. Avoid having them done the day of the session, as redness or irritation may occur. You will be amazed at how this simple trick really makes your eyes pop in a photo.
3. Bring different outfit options with you and have them dry cleaned/ironed prior to the session.
Find out if there is a specific dress code you need to adhere to for your company or profession. Bring at least one jacket with you for a more formal look. (Jackets are awesome because we can take it on and off for different looks!) Avoid prints and patterns. The attention should be on your face, not on your clothes. Try on your outfits a few days before the shoot to make sure you are comfortable and confident in your choice of clothing (especially if you decide to wear short sleeve options).
I want you feeling comfortable in your clothes. If you have gained weight or lost weight take this opportunity to get a few new pieces that fit you perfectly. Clothes that are too tight will decrease your mobility, while clothes that are too loose will sag. Have the items cleaned and pressed or ironed so there are no wrinkles. When reviewing your outfits, be sure to check if your bra strap is showing.
Necklaces should not be too long or else they risk being cut off at the bottom of the frame of the image. Earrings should be limited to studs or hoops. Avoid sleeveless shirts and low cut shirts, they take the attention away from your face. Long sleeves or 3/4 length sleeves are preferable. If you have any questions about what to wear, don’t hesitate to email me!
Dominick Ray - Warped Vision Photography Studio@warpedvision.org