City-Headshots.com

Advice for Subjects - What to wear for a Photoshoot

How much time is needed to photograph me?

Ideally we recommend 20-30 minutes per person.

Why is so much time needed to photograph me?

It will give you more time to relax and more time to bring out the best from you. Whatever mood you are in when you are photographed will show through so try to relax and look forward to the experience. If you are stressed, in a bad mood or in a big rush you will not photograph well!

I only have a few moments spare, can my photograph be taken faster?

Maybe, yes, but it is strongly not recommended.

What should I wear?

There are no hard and fast rules. You may find the following recommendations helpful.

• Your clothing should not be a distraction, this is after all a photograph about you. Consider the context of the photograph and how this photograph will be used, then dress accordingly. Your business or your colleague arranging the shoot may want to specify a particular dresscode, for example formal business atire or something more casual, everyone wearing ties and jackets or no jackets and open shirt collars. We only photograph you from the mid-waist upward, so what you wear below does not matter.
• Plain clothing is better. Strong patterns, logos, text, images, dots, contrasting trim and shiny fabrics will all distract from your face, though good fabric textures are fine. Wear colours that compliment your skin, eye and hair tones - very dark tones may not work if you have either very fair or very dark skin. It is also wise to avoid very fashionable trends as the photo will date quickly.
• Collared formal shirts are generally better than casual. Women have more choice with blouse and shirt necklines, but quite often collars work best too. It is a good idea not to show too much skin as bare arms, bare shoulders and plunging necklines tend to be distracting; they may also look unexpectedly inappropriate within the tight framing of the head and shoulders portrait.
• Jewellery should not be too overt. Glasses are a matter of choice. If you are not easily recognised without them then it is probably best to wear them. If you do want to wear them, make sure the lenses are clean.
• If you are planning to get a haircut, do so a few days before. Make-up should be neutral and even, pay special care to your eyes.

If you are unsure about what to wear, bring a couple of clothing options with you on the day of the shoot.

Most importantly, you need to feel comfortable and that your clothes and appearance express you and your business as you want to be portrayed.