What to Wear for Personal Branding and Headshot Sessions

Feel Confident and Look Professional

Many people feel unsure about what to wear for their headshot or personal branding session. Some worry they will look too formal. Others worry they will not look professional enough. The good news is, there are simple ways to get it right and feel comfortable in your photos.

I work with clients across Rotherham, and nearby towns to help them prepare for their sessions. Whether you need headshots for work, casting, or your own business, I can guide you on what works well. I offer weekday sessions which often feel less rushed and more flexible.

This guide will help you choose what to wear so you can feel confident and still look like yourself.

Keep it Professional but True to You

Start with clothing you would wear to a meeting or to represent your business. A well-fitting shirt, blouse, or simple dress works well. If you are in a creative or relaxed industry, smart-casual styles like fine knit jumpers or soft blazers also look good.

The most important thing is that you feel comfortable in what you choose. If you would not normally wear a suit, you do not need to wear one for your headshots. It is better to wear something that feels like you.

Suggested photo: A clean, simple headshot of a client in a collared shirt or blouse with soft, natural light.

Choose Solid Colours That Suit You

Solid colours photograph well and help keep the focus on you. Neutral tones, soft blues, greens, or earthy shades often work best. If you prefer brighter colours, you can choose one that suits your skin tone but avoid clothing with large logos or busy patterns.

If you plan to use your photos on your website or social media, think about how your outfit will sit alongside your brand colours. Some people bring two options to their session to give variety.

Suggested photo: Branding photo of a client wearing a soft neutral top in a workspace, with natural background.

Avoid Distracting Details

Try to avoid large prints, stripes, or slogan t-shirts. These can take attention away from your face and may not work well in photographs. Simple jewellery is fine, but large, shiny pieces can catch the light and draw focus.

When choosing your top, look for something with a good neckline. Crew necks, v-necks, or soft collars tend to look better than high, tight necklines.

Suggested photo: Detail shot showing a simple, well-chosen outfit with minimal accessories.

Clothing Tips for Casting Headshots

For casting headshots, keep it plain and let your expression be the focus. Simple t-shirts or tops in solid colours work best. Casting agents want to see you as a blank canvas, so avoid patterns, logos, and heavy styling.

Suggested photo: A casting-style headshot with soft lighting, minimal makeup, and a plain top.

Choosing Outfits for Personal Branding

For personal branding sessions, you can bring more of your style into your clothing choices. If you are a small business owner or a creative, wearing something that feels true to your work can help tell your story. You might wear jeans with a tailored jacket, a comfortable dress, or a work apron if you are a maker or baker.

Think about where your session will take place. For example, if we are photographing in your home, a relaxed look works well. If we are using your office, a smarter option may suit the space.

Suggested photo: Personal branding photo of a creative business owner in their workspace, dressed in relaxed, approachable clothing.

Should You Bring a Change of Clothes?

Bringing a second outfit can be helpful if you want variety. Some people bring one smart option and one more relaxed outfit. This gives you a good mix of photos to use across different platforms, such as LinkedIn, your website, and social media.

If you are unsure what to bring, we can discuss it before your session.

Suggested photo: Two contrasting looks from the same session, showing different outfits in the same setting.

Weekday Sessions Offer Flexibility

I offer headshot and personal branding sessions during weekdays. This often suits people who need a quieter time without weekend commitments. Weekdays also tend to feel more relaxed, with fewer time pressures.

If you work from home, I can visit you there. I also offer location shoots in and around Rotherham, including S66 and nearby areas.

Suggested photo: Client working at home with a laptop, wearing comfortable but professional clothing.

How to Get Started

If you are ready to update your headshots or build a set of personal branding photos, I can help you plan your session and guide you on what to wear. You can get in touch to ask questions, check availability, or talk through your ideas.