What To Wear For Professional Headshots?

One of the, if not the most, common questions I get before a professional headshot session is what should I wear? And honestly, I get it. Choosing what to wear for headshots isn’t always straightforward. You want to look professional, but not stiff. Stylish, but not try-hard. Like yourself, but on a really good day.

Over the years, I’ve helped hundreds of people in front of the camera figure this out. Helping them to glow-up and finally be able to ditch the cropped pic of them at a wedding in 2018 that they’ve been passing as a professional headshot for far too long!

The tricky part in answering this question is that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. What works for a corporate LinkedIn photo might feel completely off for a creative freelancer, or someone building a personal brand. Different goals call for different looks, and your outfit should support the message you’re trying to send.

The Basics Of What To Wear For Headshots

Before we get right into the specific questions like “what should a web designer wear vs what should a lawyer wear? Let’s cover the basic principles of the best clothes for professional headshots and the best colours to use and those to avoid.

Wear something that feels like you, not a weird cosplay version of your job.

If you’ve never worn a blazer in your life, don’t panic-buy one the night before. You’ll spend the whole shoot adjusting the sleeves, wondering if the shoulder pads are plotting against you. Your outfit should feel familiar, not like you’re pretending to be someone who reads the Financial Times for fun.

Patterns and logos? Tread carefully.

That paisley shirt you love? Probably not its moment. Clothes with bold prints or big branding have a habit of stealing the spotlight in photos, and not in a good way! You want people to remember your face, not your Zara graphic tee with the questionable slogan.

Fit over flair, every time.

You don’t need to reinvent yourself or rock the latest runway trend. But you do need clothes that sit properly, move with you, and don’t bunch, gape, or cling in all the wrong places. A plain top that fits well will always outshine a statement piece that doesn’t know how to behave.

And here’s a bonus tip: bring a few options.

Even if you’re 99% sure on your outfit, that last-minute backup might just surprise you. Lighting, backdrops, and how certain fabrics read on camera can all make a difference. And it’s way easier to swap a shirt than Photoshop one.

How To Dress For A Professional Headshot: Do’s & Don’ts

Thankfully of course, there isn’t an official dress code for headshots, but after spending years behind the lens as a headshot photographer, I’ve seen what works; and what really doesn’t on a number of occasions! 

Do: Wear solid colours that flatter your skin tone

They’re timeless, flattering, and keep the focus on you, not your outfit. Jewel tones, earthy neutrals, soft blues... basically, if it wouldn’t blind someone in a Zoom meeting, it’ll probably work well in a photo.

Don’t: Wear loud prints or overly bright colours

Fluorescents, high-contrast patterns, and shouty florals tend to dominate a frame. And not in the good “eye-catching” kind of way, more in the “pure distraction” kind of way. Unless the vibe you’re going for is “walking optical illusion,” keep it simple.

Do: Think about neckline and layering

Structured collars, V-necks, crewnecks. These all work great, depending on your personal style. Layers (like a jacket or light knit) can add texture and help your outfit feel more considered, without looking overdone.

Don’t: Go overly casual (unless casual is your brand)

That faded band tee might be authentically you, but save it for the pub, not your professional headshot. Even creative roles benefit from a look that feels intentional and put-together.

Do: Iron your clothes

Sounds obvious, but trust me, it’s a detail people forget. Cameras catch everything. Wrinkles, rumples, and collar kinks are no one’s friend.

Don’t: Over-accessorise

Chunky jewellery, statement earrings, or anything that jingles when you move can pull attention away from your face. The goal is to look like yourself, not yourself on your way to a red carpet.

Profession Specific Tips On What To Wear For Business Headshots

Let’s not pretend everyone needs the same headshot. Because they don’t. The right outfit for a freelance illustrator isn’t going to land the same way for a corporate consultant. Your headshot is doing a job when it showcases you to people you’ve not yet met, and what you’re wearing in your headshot should match the kind of work you do.

Corporate & Finance

Suits still rule the roost here, but they don’t have to be stuffy. A well-fitted blazer, crisp shirt, and clean lines will do the heavy lifting. You don’t need to look like you’ve just come from court, but you do want to look like someone who reads contracts for fun and actually understands them.

Creatives & Freelancers

You’ve got room to play here, but keep it intentional. The goal is to show you’re creative and credible. That bold jumper you always get compliments on? Great. The one with paint stains from your last mural? Maybe not. Think clean, relaxed, and a little bit cool. The sweet spot is personality without chaos.

Coaches, Therapists & Anyone Client-Facing

You want to look like someone who listens well and gives good advice. Soft tones, comfortable fabrics, layers that aren’t too bulky; these all help. A headshot should make people feel like they could open up to you. If your clothes do half that job before you’ve said a word, you’re winning.

Tech & Startups

Let’s be honest, tech has its own uniform, and it’s usually called “whatever was clean.” But don’t confuse casual with careless. A tidy tee under a jacket, or a fitted jumper in a solid colour, often looks miles better on camera than you’d expect. Keep it clean, keep it simple, and you’ll still look like the future

Ready To Book A Shoot?

If all of this has got you thinking your current headshot might not be cutting it anymore, then it’s probably time you get yourself something new. Who knows you might even take some of the inspiration above and go on a shopping spree beforehand! 

I shoot professional headshots across Wimbledon and London for people from all kinds of industries; whether you're refreshing your LinkedIn, building a personal brand, or finally retiring that blurry crop from your mate’s wedding.

Drop me a message and let’s create something that actually feels like you.