What to Wear for Your Headshot Session: A Dallas Photographer's Guide

Sheaannestudios
May 15
4 min read

Planning your headshots in Dallas? Great choice! Whether for your LinkedIn profile, acting portfolio, or business branding, a professional headshot can make a lasting impression. But here's the tricky part — what should you wear?

Your outfit can affect how confident and polished you look in your photos. As a seasoned Dallas headshot photographer, I've helped clients choose the proper clothing for their sessions. The goal? Make sure you look and feel your best in front of the camera.

In this guide, I'll explain what to wear, what to avoid, and how to prepare for your headshot session in Dallas. Let's make sure your outfit works as hard as you do.

Why Your Outfit Matters for Headshots

First impressions happen fast. People form opinions about you in just a few seconds based on your appearance. That's why your outfit matters.

When it comes to headshots in Dallas, your clothes should:

Reflect your personality.
Match your industry or goals.
Complement your background and lighting.
Help you look confident, clean, and professional.

Wearing the wrong colors or patterns can distract from your face. And you don't want that. Remember, your face is the star of the show.

General Wardrobe Tips

Before we dive into specific outfit ideas, here are a few general tips for choosing what to wear.

1. Keep It Simple

Solid colors always win. Avoid wild patterns, logos, and graphics. They pull attention away from your face and can look dated quickly.

2. Choose Flattering Colors

Stick with colors that match your skin tone and eye color. Earth tones, blues, greys, and soft jewel tones work well. Avoid neon colors or anything too flashy.

3. Fit Matters

Wear something that fits well—not too tight or too baggy. Loose clothes can look messy, and tight clothes may cause discomfort during your session.

4. Layers Look Great

Layers add depth and interest to your photos. Consider a blazer, jacket, or cardigan over a shirt or blouse. Just make sure the layer doesn't overwhelm your frame.

5. Mind the Neckline

The neckline of your shirt affects how your face and neck look. Depending on your style, V-necks, scoop necks, and collars all work well. Avoid turtlenecks unless it's part of your brand.

What to Wear for Men

If you're booking headshots in Dallas as a male professional, actor, or creative, here's how to dress for success.

Business Look

A well-fitted dress shirt in a solid color.
Optional blazer or suit jacket.
Tie if your industry calls for it — law, finance, or corporate roles.

Casual Look

A fitted polo or button-up shirt without a tie.
Solid t-shirts layered with a casual blazer.
Avoid loud prints or logos.

Style Tips

Stick with darker tones for a classic, slimming look.
Avoid shiny or reflective materials.
Make sure your shirt is ironed and lint-free.

What to Wear for Women

If you're getting headshots in Dallas for personal branding, acting, or a corporate role, these tips are for you.

Business Look

A tailored blouse or dress in a solid or soft pattern.
Blazer or cardigan to add structure.
Minimal jewelry — small earrings, a watch, or a dainty necklace.

Casual Look

A fitted top or dress with clean lines.
Avoid spaghetti straps unless layered under a jacket.
Choose soft fabrics that don't wrinkle easily.

Style Tips

Choose tops that match your skin tone.
Avoid bold stripes or polka dots.
Light makeup that enhances your natural features is ideal.

What Not to Wear

Here's what you should avoid at all costs when meeting your Dallas headshot photographer:

Bright white tops without layers. They can reflect too much light.
Logos, slogans, or brand names.
Busy patterns like animal prints, plaid, or bold florals.
Wrinkled or stained clothes.
Distracting jewelry or accessories.
Baggy or oversized clothing.

These things take the focus away from your face, the most essential part of a headshot.

Industry-Specific Outfit Ideas

Your profession can guide what you wear. Here are some ideas tailored to different industries:

Corporate

Men: Suit and tie or dress shirt and blazer.
Women: Blouse with blazer or a structured dress.

Creative Fields (designers, writers, artists)

Men: Smart-casual button-up, with or without a blazer.
Women: Stylish top with texture or subtle pattern.

Actors

Stick with simple, solid tops that don't distract.
Bring multiple outfit options to show a range.

Entrepreneurs

Choose something that aligns with your brand.
Modern, clean, and confident is key.

Your Dallas headshot photographer can also advise you based on your industry goals.

Grooming and Accessories

Looking your best isn't just about clothes. Here's how to fine-tune your overall appearance:

Hair: Get a fresh haircut a few days before. Style your hair neatly.
Beard (for men): Trim it or shave clean, depending on your style.
Makeup (for women): Keep it natural but photo-ready. Matte finishes work better under lights.
Nails: Clean and simple. No chipped polish.
Glasses: Clean your lenses and consider anti-glare coating.

A polished look builds confidence — and it shows in your photos.

What to Bring to Your Headshot Session

A little preparation goes a long way. Here's what to bring to your session with your Dallas headshot photographer:

Two to three outfit options.
Comb or brush.
Makeup for touch-ups.
Lint roller.
Accessories (watch, glasses, necklace).
Water and lip balm to stay fresh.

It's better to come prepared and not need something than to need it and not have it.

Posing and Confidence Tips

Even if you're dressed perfectly, a great pose makes a huge difference. Here's how to look natural and confident:

Practice your smile in the mirror.
Stand or sit up straight.
Relax your shoulders.
Angle your body slightly, not straight on.
Trust your Dallas headshot photographer to guide you.

Confidence comes from within, but the right clothes help bring it out.

Conclusion

If you're still unsure, don't worry. Your Dallas headshot photographer will help guide you through it all. Bring a few options, come with confidence, and smile — you're ready to shine. Looking for a headshots photographer near me in Dallas, TX? You're in the right place. An experienced photographer will help you look your best, feel relaxed, and deliver stunning results that get you noticed. Prepare to dress with purpose, smile confidently, and own your next headshot session!