Styling & Grooming Tips for a Professional Headshot

When it comes to making a powerful first impression, a professional headshot is one of the most effective branding tools you have. Whether you're updating LinkedIn, refreshing your website, or elevating your company’s “About Us” page, how you show up matters. This guide from Benny Migs Photo will help you look polished, confident, and camera-ready.

Why Styling Matters in Your Headshot

What you wear—and how you prepare—directly affects how your headshot looks. Clean styling and good grooming ensure the focus stays on your eyes, expression, and personality.

Wardrobe & Styling Tips

1. Stick to Solid, Neutral Colors

Neutral tones such as navy, charcoal, black, taupe, or cream photograph best and keep your image timeless.

2. Avoid Bold Patterns and Tiny Prints

Bold patterns distract, while tiny prints can distort on camera (moiré effect). Choose subtle textures instead.

3. Skip Shiny or Reflective Fabrics

Shiny materials reflect light unevenly. Matte fabrics create a clean, consistent look.

4. Clothing Should Be Clean and Pressed

Wrinkles show up clearly in photos. Bring outfits on hangers to keep them crisp.

5. Avoid a Plain White Shirt Without a Layer

White can overpower the frame unless paired with a blazer or jacket.

6. Keep Accessories Simple

Statement jewelry or bright colors should complement your look, not distract from your face.

Grooming Tips

1. Get Haircuts or Color One Week Before

This allows your hair to settle naturally and avoids the “too fresh” look.

2. Arrive with Hair & Makeup Ready

Bring a comb, lip balm, and powder for touch-ups.

3. Facial Hair Should Be Intentional

Shave the morning of your session or trim beards 1–2 days prior.

4. Choose Natural, Neutral Makeup

A polished everyday look photographs best.

5. Clean Glasses Before the Session

Wipe lenses with a lint-free cloth to reduce glare on the camera.

Retouching

Retouching is optional and designed to lightly enhance your natural features.

Basic retouching includes:

- Fly-away hair cleanup
- Brightened eyes & teeth
- Blemish removal
- Light complexion smoothing