What to Wear for a Professional Headshot (And What to Avoid)

What you wear to a headshot session has more impact on the final result than most people expect. The right outfit choice helps you look polished and put-together without pulling focus from your face, which is really the whole point of a headshot. Here's what to keep in mind before your session.

What works well

Solid colours Solid, mid-tone colours photograph best. They keep attention on your face rather than competing with it. Navy, charcoal, deep green, and burgundy are reliable choices across most skin tones and backdrop options.

Fabrics with a bit of texture A subtle texture (like a fine knit or textured blazer) adds visual interest without being distracting. It also tends to photograph better than flat, shiny fabrics, which can catch light unpredictably.

Clothes that fit well Fit matters more than the item itself. A simple, well-fitted shirt will always outperform an expensive but ill-fitting jacket. If you're unsure, go with something you've worn before and know sits well.

Layering, where appropriate A blazer or jacket over a simple top adds structure to the shot and gives you flexibility. It's an easy way to look more polished without overdressing.

What to avoid

Busy patterns Tight patterns like small checks, fine stripes, or busy prints can create a distracting visual effect in photos (sometimes called moiré). Even where that's not an issue, patterns tend to pull the eye away from your face.

Logos and text Obvious branding or text on clothing dates a photo quickly and can look unintentional in a professional context. Save the branded polo for another day.

Pure white or pure black Both can be tricky to expose correctly, especially against certain backdrops. Pure white can wash out under studio lighting; pure black can lose detail and merge into a dark backdrop. Deep, rich tones tend to work better than either extreme.

Anything brand new and untested If you're wearing something for the first time, make sure you've tried it on and moved around in it before the shoot. You want to feel comfortable, not distracted by an itchy collar or an outfit that doesn't sit right when you move.

Does it depend on your industry?

Yes. What's "appropriate" varies by company and profession. A law firm and a creative agency will have very different expectations, and that's fine. The goal isn't to look like everyone else in a stock photo; it's to look like a credible, natural version of yourself, dressed in a way that fits your actual work environment. If you're unsure whether formal or casual is the right call for your team, it's worth checking with whoever is coordinating the shoot.

Our approach

Before every session at Keylight, we send a short styling guide so you know exactly what to expect and what to bring. If you're still unsure on the day, we'll help guide you through it, that's part of the process, not something you need to figure out alone.

Book a session or get in touch if you have specific questions about your upcoming shoot.