Nailing a headshot isn’t just about turning up and hoping for the best. A bit of prep can be the difference between a shot that looks stiff and one that actually gets attention — whether it’s for LinkedIn, your business profile, or an acting portfolio.
This guide cuts through the fluff and tells you exactly what to do before your session. No generic “be yourself” advice — just practical tips, real prep steps, and what actually works in front of the camera.
Here’s the gear you actually need to think about before your shoot.
What you wear should reflect the vibe you’re going for — clean, simple, and distraction-free always wins. Skip logos, avoid tiny stripes, and steer clear of anything that needs constant adjusting.
Good choices:
Solid colours (nothing that matches your skin tone too closely)
Mid-tones or darker shades that contrast with your background
Layered options like jackets or open shirts if it fits your profession
More detail in the full what to wear for headshots guide
Safe bets:
Navy, charcoal, olive, forest green
Earthy tones that don’t blend into your face
Black is fine if you’re not wearing it head-to-toe
Avoid:
Bright reds and neons (they dominate)
Flesh tones (you’ll look washed out)
Pure white unless layered with something darker
Keep it natural. Go matte, not shiny. Anything reflective will bounce light in all the wrong places. If you’re wearing foundation, make sure it matches your neck — not the one from last summer’s tan.
Skip:
Glitter
Heavy contouring
Lip gloss that catches the light
For more on this: makeup and grooming tips for headshots
Clean shave or trimmed beard — just make it tidy. Check your eyebrows, nose, and any rogue ear hairs that never get a mention but always show up on camera.
For women and men alike:
Clean, moisturised skin
Lip balm (chapped lips photograph horribly)
Avoid shiny moisturisers or oily skin products
Go with a look that actually feels like you. This isn’t the time to try something drastically new. Whatever you do, avoid hair in the face — clean lines make better photos.
Quick tips:
Bring a brush or comb to the shoot
If your hair tends to flatten, dry shampoo or a little lift helps
Flyaways? Hair spray or matte clay
Need help deciding what to wear, how many outfits to bring, or if your hair will cooperate? Drop your details and ask away — no pressure, no pushy follow-up.
You don’t need to “learn to pose” — you just need to relax your jaw and let someone guide you.
Try these:
Push your forehead slightly forward (helps with jawline)
Slight tilt to your head = more approachable
Keep your shoulders down, even if you’re tense
Confidence reads through posture, not forced smiles. Stand tall, shift your weight evenly, and think of someone you’d actually enjoy talking to — that subtle spark shows in your eyes.
Bring:
A couple of outfit options
Hair brush or comb
Blotting paper or powder (especially if you run oily)
Water bottle
Music playlist if it helps loosen you up
Optional:
Props for creatives or actors
Business tools (laptop, camera, instrument — if it fits your brand)
Yep — but don’t do it on the same day. Give it a few days to settle in. Fresh cuts often look too sharp or unfinished straight after.
Use blotting paper or matte powder before your shoot. Avoid heavy SPF moisturisers or anything with a shiny finish — those will reflect light in all the wrong ways.
Keep it minimal. A clean pair of studs or a simple chain is fine. Big, shiny, or distracting pieces will draw attention away from your face.
Bring 2 to 3 options. Go for one business-friendly, one relaxed, and one backup in case something doesn’t feel right on the day.
Whatever feels natural. A forced toothy grin looks awkward. Some people suit a closed-mouth smirk better — test both and see what works.
Use a mirror or shoot a quick phone video. Tilt your head slightly, relax your jaw, and push your forehead forward just a little. You’ll see what looks natural fast.
Not always. If you wear makeup daily and know what works, stick with that. Just avoid shiny finishes and bring powder if you’re unsure.
Depends on the vibe you want. Solid colours are sharp and clean. Outdoor or workspace backgrounds feel more relaxed. Talk to your photographer about what suits your use case.
Absolutely. You'll get a full gallery to browse and pick from — no pressure to choose on the spot. Want extra edits? Just ask.
If you’re ready to stop putting it off and actually get a photo you’re happy to use, fill out the form and let’s lock it in. Adelaide-based, no awkward poses, no fake smiles — just a proper session that gets the shot.
This article was written by Corey M — the bloke behind Shameless Visuals, based right here in Adelaide. Whether it’s chasing the Southern Lights through a frosty paddock or setting up lights in a boardroom, the job’s the same: find the shot that actually means something.
When Corey’s not editing until his eyeballs hurt, he’s out shooting everything from commercial campaigns to birthday chaos to full-scale conference coverage. No fluff, no gimmicks — just real work that makes people take notice.
If you’re here reading this, chances are you’re after more than just a pretty picture. Here’s what Shameless Visuals actually does:
Professional headshot photography for teams, creatives, and anyone who’s sick of cropping themselves out of group shots.
Commercial photography in Adelaide that shows products and brands at their best — not in some soulless stock style.
Real estate and drone photography that makes listings stand out, even in a flooded market.
Event and corporate photography that captures energy, moments, and actual people (not just blurry backs of heads).
Portrait photography that brings out character without making it awkward.
Boudoir photography that’s more about confidence than clichés — completely private, entirely on your terms.
Explore the full range at the Shameless Visuals homepage or get in touch here to book something real.
Ready to campture amazing moments?
Lets make things simple!
Your project is unique, let’s make sure it’s given the attention it deserves. Hit the button below to head over to our contact page. I’d love to know more about what you’re wanting to achieve and how I can help you make that dream a reality!