Professional headshots are photographed with sharp lenses and studio light, so small details show. The goal isn’t a dramatic new look. It’s you, polished: the version of you that people will recognize when they meet you. Here’s how to prepare your hair, skin and makeup.
Hair
- Wear your hair the way you usually do. A headshot should look like you on a good day, not like a special occasion.
- Cut a week before, not the day before, so it has time to settle.
- Tame flyaways. A little smoothing product helps, especially in humid weather. I also watch for flyaways during the session and fix what I can on set.
- Bring a brush or comb. We’ll do quick touch-ups between shots.
On-set hair refinement is part of every Pro and Premium Session.
Makeup
- Keep it natural but slightly more defined than everyday. Studio light can flatten features a little.
- Use matte products. Shimmer and strong highlighter reflect light and can look like shine on camera.
- Even skin tone, not heavy coverage. Retouching takes care of small blemishes, so you don’t need to cover everything.
- Define brows and lashes lightly. They frame the eyes, which are the focus of a headshot.
- Bring powder and lip color for touch-ups during the session.
If you work with a makeup artist, ask for a natural, camera-ready look rather than evening makeup.
For men
- Shave or trim on the morning of the session, or keep your beard neatly shaped. If you usually have stubble, keep it.
- Control shine. A matte moisturizer or a little blotting powder makes a visible difference under studio light.
- Check eyebrows and stray hairs. Small details show at high resolution.
Skin and grooming
- Drink water and get a good night’s sleep before the session.
- Avoid trying new skin products or treatments in the days before, in case of a reaction.
- Moisturize lips, and bring lip balm.
What retouching does and doesn’t do
Every final image is professionally retouched. Retouching evens skin, softens temporary blemishes and cleans up flyaways, while keeping your features natural. It doesn’t reshape your face or change who you are, and it can’t fix an expression, which is why we focus on getting that right during the session.
Hair and grooming is one of the seven elements I control in every session; see how they come together on my headshot photographer in Indianapolis page. For clothing advice, read what to wear for your headshot.
Frequently asked questions
Is a makeup artist included?
No. Pro and Premium Sessions include on-set hair refinement and grooming checks. If you’d like professional makeup, book it before your session and ask for a natural, camera-ready look.
Should I wear makeup if I usually don’t?
A little powder to control shine is enough. Your headshot should look like you.
Ready for a headshot that looks like you on your best day?
Every session includes expression coaching and professional retouching, in my studio in Indianapolis or at your office. See sessions and rates, or tell us what you need and we’ll help you plan it.