Women

Even though we want to celebrate who we are (and not who someone else thinks we’re supposed to be), there are clothing, hair, and makeup choices that will help make your photographs be less about that date-night blouse or gold eyeliner and more all about you and your true confidence.

Hair, Skin and Makeup

1. Drink lots of water the day before and be well-rested for bright eyes and clear skin

2. Let a new haircut grow in. New cuts and hairstyles can be fun but definitely NOT just before your shoot –hair always photographs better slightly grown-out—it’s softer. Become Studios offers hair styling services on site to refresh your hair before stepping in front of the camera: easy up or down-do’s, flat-ironing touch-ups, curling, and some hairspray to finish—(just no wash, cuts or blow dry’s).

3. Getting styled on set? Arrive with a makeup-free, moisturized face and clean hair. Our professional artists create natural looks with their custom makeup. If your hair gets a little wild just after a wash, consider washing it the day before the photoshoot.

4. For DIY-ers apply your everyday natural makeup with an emphasis on your eyes and avoid makeup products with shimmer, sparkle, or shine. (Pro-tip: wearing a layer of translucent powder makes shine disappear, pores seem smaller, skin looks even-toned).

5. Hands: Your hands will likely be in a few shots so tidy up those nails and lotion up the skin. No chipped nail polish, please.

Wardrobe and Accessories

Now let’s talk clothing. What to bring and what to leave at home — because it may look fantastic behind a podium, in a conference room, or at an event, but less amazing on camera — and we really want to see You.

1. Bring 3-4 options. Your favorite and some backups. For example, you can focus on:
   • Something Light. Bring a soft shade of gray, blush, nude, cream or white.
   • Something Dark.  Black, chocolate, charcoal, or dark, rich jewel tones will all work well
   • Something Classic. Put together an ensemble that’s timeless and chic. (Pro-tip: you shouldn’t be able to tell what decade it is in the photo.)

2. V-necks and scoops always look great. They accentuate the neckline, frame your face and generally look best on women. So, in most cases no ultra-low necklines and no turtlenecks — just some great options in the middle.

3. Sleeves or sleeveless? Executive headshots tend to look more professional with covered shoulders, but if your business casual look includes a sleeveless blouse or shift dress make sure it fits well, particularly under your arms – not too loose or bra-revealing. And bring your favorite blazer, jacket, or sweater as layering options.

4. Jewelry and accessories. Keep them simple, classic, personal. Highly reflective or flashy accessories can distract on camera. Simpler pieces always work better.

5. Consider a personal color and style analysis to finesse your style and best colors. Sallie at House of Colour is an expert in guiding you to the colors that bring a glow to your skin and defining styles that work for your personality and body type. www.houseofcolournesantarosa.com
   

What not to Bring

• Leave the big, bold, high-contrast patterns, and neon colors at home —we want to see you and your smile.

• No grid-like patterns. Small checks or herringbone patterns can create a moiré effect on camera, but thin stripes look fine.

• Avoid loose or baggy tops and shawls that hide your beautiful shape.

  

So, shop your closet, swipe on some mascara, push your hair back, and show up with your true self (and options).

For Men

Hair, Skin and Grooming

1. Drink lots of water the day before and be well-rested for bright eyes and clear skin

2. Drop by your barber a week or so in advance of the photoshoot—remember to trim and groom your facial hair too.

3. Remember to bring your shaver to avoid a five o’clock shadow (unless well-groomed scruff is the look you love).
   

Wardrobe

1. Bring options. Bring a favorite shirt and your killer suit, the one that makes you look sharp and feel extra-comfortable, plus have a back-up at the ready.

2. Wearing a suit?—Think classic and well fitting. Choose your favorite suit that fits you well. Rich and dark colors like navy blue or gray read best on camera. (Pro-tip: If it pulls across the shoulder or bunches up when you button it, leave it at home.)

3. Wearing a tie?—Think simple. When choosing a shirt and a tie that complement each other and your suit, go with simple colors and patterns. (Pro-tip: ties look best when their tone falls between the suit and the shirt—so a light shirt, a dark suit, and a tie in a shade somewhere between them. Some ties are shiny – stay away from reflective, shiny silk ties.)

4. Bring jackets or sweaters for layering—this is a great way to layer and add detail to business casual.

5. Select a colored shirt with details for business casual look. (Pro-tip: choose a color or a darker shirt or something with pockets or details—they’ll work better in your portrait).
   

What not to Bring

• Leave the big, bold, high-contrast patterns, and neon colors at home —we want to see you and your good energy.

• No grid-like patterns. Small checks or herringbone patterns can create a moiré effect on camera, but thin stripes look fine.

• Undershirts should be invisible—if you go tie-less, wear a minimalist v-neck or nothing—undershirts are not the first thing anyone wants to see in your portrait.
  

Team Photos

Follow the hair, makeup, grooming, and wardrobe tips for women and men.

• Everyone should wear similar colors, tones, and styles—it helps to unify the photo. (Pro-tip: whether formal or casual, earth tones or jewel tones—everyone keep to a singular group look and feel for best results).

• Details matter. Plan to show up 10-15 minutes early so you don’t feel rushed—but relaxed. Take a few minutes when you arrive to touch up your hair and makeup. Straighten your tie, adjust your blouse, fluff your bangs, and do a last-minute mirror check for your true smile and glowing confidence. We’ll capture your best up close and personal moments.