What to wear for your branding or head shot session?
I am asked this question all the time. And I get it. Its hard to choose clothes you feel good and look good in, you want to attracted your people while also staying true to yourself. Here are a few things I suggest when my branding clients ask me what to wear.
1/ Be yourself – I think this is a pretty good piece of advice for nearly every part of your business, but especially in what to wear. When you feel your best, you exude confidence. If you rock a tall heel, love suspenders, or signature outfit is sneakers and a vintage T, do that. Do whatever that is. If you don’t wear a suit when you are with your clients, why wear a suit in your branding session? Your headshot or photos made in your branding session are most likely the first introduction to your potential clients – so show them YOU. Not someone you think you should be.
“A person who has good thoughts cannot ever be ugly. You can have a wonky nose and a crooked mouth and a double chin and stick-out teeth, but if you have good thoughts they will shine out of your face like sunbeams and you will always look lovely.”
― Roald Dahl
2/ Think of options that allow for versatility If you are adhering to a budget we offer 30/60 minute sessions. In these sessions, adding/subtracting a blazer or sweater to an outfit allows for a completely different look in a jiffy. Any accessory will also do this easily for you. Glasses, jewelry or hats can easily be added or taken away.
3/ Avoid large logos. They can be distracting and reduce the timelessness of your images. I don’t tell people to shy away from patterns or bold colours–if that’s your thing–but logos can be a bit much. I also don’t mind a vintage t-shirt or one with writing on them, as long as they complement your messaging!
4/ Wear clothing that fit you well. Structured clothing that fits you properly is better than baggy clothing when you’re feeling like you want to hide a bit. Ill fitting clothing that doesn’t sit well on your body creates wrinkles, gaps and hides your shape. Another tip in this category is undergarments. Yes, I’m talking about bra straps, underwear, and sweater hanger loops! (does anyone even use those??) Put as much effort into your underthings as your clothing – put each item you intend to wear on, and move around in them. If things hang out, make another plan.
5/ Organizing a group. Planning your team photos feels daunting. You want to allow each person to be themselves but you need the photos to have cohesion. Sticking to the same colour palette is key here. When in the group, you should all ‘go together’ without being too matchy-matchy. Planning different outfits for your group photo to your headshot images is a good strategy.
6/ Have fun. Lastly, don’t take yourself too seriously. Have fun, be a little vulnerable and enjoy the process.
