How to Prepare for Your Headshot or Personal Branding Session
A headshot or personal branding session is more than just taking a photo—it’s about capturing the real you. Whether you need updated images for your website, social media, or business marketing, the goal is to create photos that feel natural, confident, and approachable. My sessions are designed to be relaxed and comfortable, using natural light and gentle direction so you never feel stiff or awkward.
Here’s how to prepare so you get the most out of your session.
What to Wear
The right outfit can make a big difference in how your photos feel.
Keep it simple and timeless. Solid colors tend to photograph best. Neutral tones, soft earth tones, and classic colors like navy, cream, olive, rust, or charcoal work beautifully in natural light.
Avoid busy patterns or large logos. These can distract from your face and expression.
Choose something that feels like you. If you normally dress casually for your work, a relaxed but polished outfit will feel more authentic than something overly formal.
Bring layers. Jackets, cardigans, or scarves can quickly change the look of your photos without needing a full outfit change.
Fit matters. Clothes that fit well (not too baggy or too tight) photograph the best and help you feel comfortable.
If you’re unsure, feel free to bring a couple of options and we can choose together.
What to Bring
A few small items can make your session more flexible and personalized.
Consider bringing:
- 3-5 outfit options
- A lint roller
- Hairbrush or comb
- Lip balm or simple makeup touch-up items
- Any small props that reflect your work (notebooks, laptop, tools of your trade, etc.)
For branding sessions especially, props can help tell the story of what you do.
Hair and Makeup
You don’t need professional hair and makeup to look great in your photos.
The goal is simply to look like your best everyday self.
- Keep makeup natural and slightly more defined than usual so it shows well on camera.
- Avoid very shiny products.
- Style your hair in a way that feels normal for you.
If you plan to get a haircut, it’s usually best to do it about a week before your session so it looks natural.
How to Prepare the Day Of
A little preparation helps you feel relaxed and confident when you arrive.
- Get a good night’s sleep
- Drink water and avoid rushing
- Try on your outfit beforehand so you know you feel comfortable in it
- Arrive a few minutes early to settle in
Most importantly, don’t worry about posing. I’ll guide you with gentle prompts and natural movement so nothing feels forced.
What the Session Feels Like
My studio sessions use soft natural light and simple backgrounds so the focus stays on you.
You won’t be stuck in stiff poses. Instead, I’ll guide you through small movements and natural expressions that feel comfortable and authentic.
We’ll keep things relaxed, chat a little, and adjust as we go.
The result is a set of images that feel genuine, confident, and truly reflective of who you are.
A Final Tip
The best photos happen when you simply show up as yourself.
You don’t need to be “photogenic” or know how to pose. My job is to guide you, help you feel comfortable, and capture the natural expressions that make your photos feel real.
If you have questions before your session, I’m always happy to help you plan outfits or talk through ideas. I want you to walk into your session feeling prepared, confident, and excited.
-Kaleigh
