How to Prepare for Professional Headshots | Northampton Headshot Photographer
Booking professional headshots is an important step—whether you’re updating your business website, refreshing your personal brand, or simply ready to be seen more clearly in your work.
And yet, this is the part many people worry about:
What should I wear? How should I prepare? Will this feel awkward or stressful?
The good news: it doesn’t have to.
My approach to headshots is calm, guided, and intentionally simple—designed for busy professionals and creative business owners who want polished, authentic images without feeling overwhelmed.
Here’s how to prepare for a professional headshot session that feels easy and results in photographs you’ll actually love.
Who This Is For
Professional headshots are especially helpful if you are:
a creative small business owner
a therapist, coach, or wellness professional
an artist, writer, or educator
a business owner updating your website or branding
a parent balancing work, family, and limited time
If you value quality, connection, and professionalism—but don’t want a complicated process—this experience is designed for you.
Before Your Session: Planning Made Simple
Once your session is booked, preparation is intentionally minimal. During your complimentary consultation, we’ll talk through your goals and how the images will be used—website, social media, press, or marketing materials.
From there, I guide you through styling, timing, and logistics so nothing feels unclear or last-minute.
What to Wear for Professional Headshots
The most important rule: wear something that feels like you.
Your headshots should reflect who you are and how you want to be seen—not a version of yourself that feels forced or unfamiliar.
Clothing Tips
Choose simple, classic pieces in neutral tones
Avoid busy patterns or large logos
Make sure clothing fits well and feels comfortable
If you love color, add it intentionally through layers or accessories
Bring 1–2 outfit options if you’d like variety
A blazer, sweater, or jacket can easily create multiple looks without overthinking it.
Supportive, well-fitting undergarments also make a noticeable difference in how clothing photographs.
Hair: Keep It You
Your hair should look like your best everyday version, not something entirely new.
Arrive with clean, dry hair
Bring a brush or comb for touch-ups
Pack any styling products you typically use
A professional blow-dry is a great option if you want extra polish
If you choose hair and makeup services, everything is handled in-studio to keep the experience relaxed and streamlined.
Makeup: Natural and Polished
If you wear makeup, think fresh and balanced.
Use light foundation that matches your skin tone
Avoid products with SPF to prevent shine
Keep eye makeup soft so it doesn’t overpower your expression
Choose a lip color you feel comfortable wearing
The goal is to look like yourself—well-rested and confident.
What the Headshot Session Feels Like
This is often the biggest concern, so let me be clear:
You do not need to know how to pose.
You do not need to “perform.”
You do not need to feel confident walking in.
I guide you through everything.
Sessions are calm, conversational, and unrushed. We talk, adjust as needed, and work together to create images that feel natural and professional. Even clients who “hate having their photo taken” enjoy the experience.
Studio or On-Location Headshots
Depending on your needs, headshots can take place in my Northampton studio or on location.
Studio sessions are ideal if you want:
clean, timeless portraits
consistent lighting
minimal distractions
On-location sessions work well if:
your environment is part of your brand
you want a headshot day at your office for all staff
you want context or movement in your images
We’ll decide together what best supports your work.
After Your Session: Selecting Your Images
Following your session, I curate and edit a gallery of your strongest images. Rather than delivering hundreds of files, I help you narrow down to the photographs that truly represent you.
Together, we select images for:
websites
marketing materials
social media
print (if desired)
This process keeps things focused and intentional.
Common Questions About Headshot Sessions
How long does a headshot session take?
Headshot Sessions are 20-minutes long at my studio where you will be guided and directed the entire time.
What if I’m nervous or awkward on camera?
That’s completely normal. You don’t need to bring confidence with you—I’ll guide you through the session.
Can I update my headshots regularly?
Many clients refresh their headshots every 1–2 years as their work evolves.
Why Professional Headshots Matter
Your headshot is often the first introduction—on your website, LinkedIn, or marketing materials. A thoughtful, well-made portrait builds trust before you ever meet someone.
It tells your clients:
you care about your work
you value professionalism
you’re comfortable being seen
And it does so quietly and confidently.
Ready to Update Your Headshots?
If you’re ready for professional headshots that feel authentic, calm, and aligned with your work, I’d love to help.
