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Many people spend weeks thinking about getting professional headshots, only to realize about 48 hours before their session that they are unsure how to prepare. The good news is that a little planning can make your session more relaxed, productive, and enjoyable. I have photographed professionals across Raleigh, Cary, and the Triangle area, and I know that feeling prepared can help you feel more comfortable in front of the camera.
In this guide, I walk you through everything you can do before your headshot session, from choosing your wardrobe to preparing your skin and calming pre-session nerves. These practical steps will help you arrive feeling confident and ready to capture images that reflect your personality and professional goals.
In This Post
- Start with Your Wardrobe
- Skin and Grooming Prep
- Mindset and Energy
- What to Do the Day Before
- Session Day Game Plan
Start with Your Wardrobe
Your clothing choices can make a difference in how your professional headshots look and feel. Choosing an outfit that fits well, suits your profession, and makes you feel confident helps keep the focus on your face and expression.
Consider bringing two or three complete outfit options to your session, depending on your package and planned wardrobe changes. This gives you flexibility and allows you to create variety if you need headshots for different purposes. One outfit might work well for your LinkedIn profile, while another may be better suited to your company website or speaking engagements.
Solid colors are often a good choice for professional headshots. Jewel tones such as deep teal, burgundy, navy, and emerald green can photograph beautifully. Bright white may reflect light differently depending on the lighting and background, so consider how your outfit works with the overall look you want. Avoid busy patterns, prominent logos, and graphics that could distract from your face. Subtle textures can add interest without overwhelming the image.
Pay attention to necklines and fit when selecting your outfits. V-necks and scoop necks can create a flattering frame, while other styles may work equally well depending on your proportions and personal preference. Choose clothing that feels comfortable and reflects your professional style.
If you wear glasses, bring them along, even if you would also like a few photographs without them. I can adjust the lighting and positioning to help minimize glare.
Iron or steam your clothing the night before your session. Wrinkles can be noticeable in photographs, so preparing your outfits in advance helps everything look neat and polished. Hang your clothes or lay them flat to keep them in good condition until your appointment.
Skin and Grooming Prep
You do not need to look like a model to get a great headshot. My goal is to help you look like yourself while capturing a polished, confident image. A few simple grooming steps in the days leading up to your session can help you feel more prepared.
Maintain your usual hydration and skincare routine in the week before your session. Avoid making sudden changes to your routine or trying products that could irritate your skin. Getting enough rest and following habits that make you feel comfortable can also help you arrive feeling refreshed.
If you plan to get a haircut or color touch-up, consider scheduling it several days before your session. This gives you time to get comfortable with the result and make any adjustments if needed. If you color your hair, plan ahead so you feel confident about the final look.
For makeup, aim for a look that feels like you. If you wear makeup daily, a slightly polished version of your everyday style can work well for professional portraits. Consider how your foundation, blush, and other products look under bright lighting, and bring your preferred lip color for touch-ups between outfit changes.
If you wear facial hair, take time to shave or trim it according to your usual grooming routine. If you have a beard, check that the edges are neat and shaped the way you prefer. Bring a small comb or brush if your hair tends to need touch-ups throughout the day.
I keep basic touch-up supplies in my Cary studio, but bringing your own familiar products can also help you feel prepared.
Mindset and Energy
One thing I remind clients is that they do not need to know how to pose before arriving at their headshot session. Feeling comfortable takes time, and I guide you through the process so you can focus on being yourself.
Before your session, spend a few minutes thinking about what you want your headshot to communicate. Are you aiming for an approachable and friendly look, a confident and authoritative presence, or a more creative professional style? Having a clear goal can help guide your expression, clothing choices, and overall presentation.
You can also practice smiling in the mirror if that helps you feel more comfortable. Look for an expression that feels natural rather than forced. You do not need to perfect a particular smile. The goal is to find a look that reflects your personality.
If you feel nervous about being photographed, you are not alone. Many people tell me they feel awkward in front of a camera, especially if they have not had professional portraits taken before. That is completely normal, and I will guide you through posing and expressions so you do not have to figure everything out on your own.
If you want to learn more about the connection between confidence and professional portraits, read my article on the role of confidence in creating captivating headshots.
What to Do the Day Before
The day before your session is a good time to take care of the remaining details so you can arrive without feeling rushed.
Lay out everything you plan to bring. Make sure your outfits are clean, pressed, and ready to wear. Gather accessories such as jewelry, ties, or scarves, and pack touch-up essentials like powder, lipstick, a small mirror, and a comb or brush. Keeping everything in one place makes the morning easier.
Try to get a good night’s sleep. Rest can help you feel more alert and comfortable during your session. Follow your usual bedtime routine and give yourself enough time to unwind before going to bed.
Avoid experimenting with your appearance at the last minute. The day before your session is not the ideal time for a drastic haircut, an unfamiliar skincare product, or a completely new makeup technique. Sticking with familiar choices can help you avoid unexpected results.
Confirm your appointment time and location before the day of your session. Check your travel time and plan to arrive a few minutes early. Giving yourself extra time can help you settle in and start the session feeling relaxed.
Session Day Game Plan
On the morning of your session, give yourself enough time to get ready without rushing. You can do your hair and makeup at home or plan for touch-ups before the session, depending on your preferences and the arrangements for your appointment.
Have a meal before your session so you feel comfortable and have enough energy. Bring a bottle of water and any personal items you may need throughout the day.
Consider wearing a button-down shirt or zip-up top when traveling to your session. This makes it easier to change into your planned outfits without pulling clothing over your head and disturbing your hairstyle.
When you arrive, take a few deep breaths and give yourself a moment to get comfortable. I like to begin with a brief conversation so we can discuss your goals and help you settle in before taking photographs. I want you to feel at ease throughout the session, with enough time to work toward images you genuinely love.
During the session, trust my guidance. I will help you adjust your posture, chin angle, hand placement, and expression. You do not need to know how to pose in advance. Simply follow the directions, stay present, and let me know if anything feels uncomfortable or unnatural. I can help you find a position that works for you.
Professional headshots can support how you present yourself to potential employers, clients, and colleagues. Whether you are updating your LinkedIn profile with a professional headshot, refreshing your company website, or preparing for a career transition, a current professional photograph can help maintain a consistent image across your online platforms.
I work with professionals throughout Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and the surrounding Triangle area. I enjoy helping people who feel camera-shy become more comfortable in front of the camera and discover photographs that reflect their personality and professional goals.
If you are ready to update your professional image, you can explore my photography website to learn more about my services. You can also find my business through my Google Business Profile.
Ready to feel confident in front of the camera? Book your LinkedIn headshot session and take the next step toward a polished, professional profile.
About Sarah Anne Wilson
Sarah Anne Wilson is a professional photographer based in Cary, North Carolina, specializing in headshots, portraits, and personal branding. With a keen eye for detail and a personalized approach, she ensures each session captures the unique personality of her clients. Sarah’s luxury studio sessions are designed to be comfortable and engaging, providing stunning results that highlight the best version of you.
