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Corporate Portrait Day: How to Prepare for Headshots That Drive Success

  • April 07, 2025

Your company has scheduled a corporate headshot day, and as someone who values professionalism, you want to be as prepared as possible. A great headshot is more than just a photo—it’s a powerful tool that can help build your personal brand, establish trust, and even drive more business opportunities. 

To help you achieve the best possible results, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions, including what to wear and whether makeup is necessary. 

 

What Should I Wear for My Headshot? 

There’s no universal answer, as the right attire depends on your industry, company culture, and personal brand. However, here are some essential tips to guide your choice:

 

 Dress as if you were meeting an important client or attending a VIP business event. This ensures you look professional and polished while still feeling like yourself.
 Consider your company’s branding and your career aspirations. If your workplace has a formal dress code, a suit or business attire may be best. If it’s more casual, a well-fitted blazer or smart top can work just as well.
 Stick to classic, timeless styles. Trendy patterns and flashy colors can be distracting and may not age well in your professional images. Solid colors often work best, particularly jewel tones or neutrals.

 

Common Wardrobe Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 For Women: A common regret is wearing a sleeveless top. While this can work for some, many later wish they had opted for something with sleeves, as arms may appear differently than expected in photos. If your company is opting for close-up headshots, this may not be a concern—but if you’re unsure, bring a blazer or an alternate option just in case. 

🚫 For Men: A frequent mistake is pairing an ill-fitting shirt with a jacket. A loose-fitting shirt under a tailored jacket can cause visible wrinkles, making the outfit look unpolished. Ensure your jacket fits properly, and your shirt complements the jacket style. 

🚫 For Everyone: Avoid stained or wrinkled clothing and consider how your outfit aligns with your company’s brand. If your organization has a uniform style (e.g., everyone wears ties or no one does), try to stay within those guidelines to maintain consistency. 

 

Do I Need a Makeup Artist?

This is a personal decision, but here’s what to consider:

 

 Makeup can enhance your look, but it should match your professional style. If you wear minimal makeup daily, a heavy, evening-style look might feel unnatural in your headshot. If you work with a makeup artist, ask for a business-appropriate style. 

 Covering blemishes or imperfections? We’ve got you covered. Many people use makeup to hide skin concerns but remember that professional retouching is often a better solution. Our editing process can subtly smooth skin and remove blemishes without the risk of makeup appearing too heavy. 

 Skip the on-set makeup artist. While it may seem convenient to have a makeup artist present on photo day, last-minute applications can sometimes be rushed or inconsistent. If you plan to use a makeup artist, book an appointment before your session so you feel fully prepared. 

 

Final Tip: Be Yourself!

The best corporate headshots don’t transform you into someone else—they capture the most authentic and confident version of you. If you feel comfortable and prepared, your confidence will shine through in the final portrait. 

 

Looking forward to seeing you on picture day! 

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