How to Prepare for Your Headshot Session

You’ve booked your headshot session—amazing. Now comes the part where people tend to overthink everything from their hair to the contents of their tote bag. Breathe. You’ve got this. And I’ve got you.

Here’s a quick and easy guide on how to prepare for your shoot—whether you’re coming in for actor headshots in Los Angeles or a fresh executive portrait that says, “I take meetings and I mean business.”

Start With Wardrobe

This part can make or break a headshot, so give it a little love. Aim for clean, well-fitted clothes in solid or rich tones. If you’re unsure what photographs best, check out my full post on what to wear for headshots.

• Bring 2–4 outfit options with different colors or necklines
• Avoid busy patterns, logos, or neon anything
• Steam or press your clothes beforehand—wrinkles are surprisingly loud in high-res

If you're shooting corporate headshots in Los Angeles, consider adding a blazer or jacket for structure. For actors, variety is key—bring both commercial and theatrical options if possible.

Hair, Makeup, and Grooming

Keep it simple and authentic. Come in with your hair styled how you’d normally wear it to an audition, a client meeting, or an interview.

• If you're hiring a makeup artist, choose someone experienced with camera-ready looks
• Gents: a quick shave or beard tidy-up the night before works wonders
• Glossy lips, overly contoured cheeks, or shimmer-heavy makeup usually don’t play well on camera

We want you, not your high school prom alter ego. That said, if you're unsure, I’m happy to refer a few great local artists.

What to Bring

• Outfits, shoes (if full-body), and accessories in a garment bag
• Makeup touch-up kit or hair products if needed
• Any props or tools related to your profession (totally optional)
• Water, snacks, and maybe your lucky playlist

You don’t need much—but a little comfort goes a long way, especially if you tend to feel camera-shy.

Get in the Right Mindset

You're not being thrown into a spotlight with no help. During your session, I’ll guide you through everything—posing, expression, adjustments, and breathing through the nerves. My job is to make you look like your best self without you needing to know a single thing about modeling or angles.

Still have questions?
You can reach out here, or if you’re ready to go, you can schedule your headshot session online in just a few clicks.

Want to know what the experience is like? Check out my reviews on Yelp or see what clients say on Google.

Coming next: How Many Headshots Do You Really Need? — and how to choose the right mix for different platforms and submissions.

Get the most from your professional headshot session with this simple prep guide. What to wear, what to bring, and how to look your best on camera.