Arriving unprepared for your business headshot session can result in photos that may not accurately represent you. With our local knowledge, we can help you dress for San Diego’s lighting, climate, and ambiance while keeping you comfortable. From coastal-appropriate colors to professional accessories, get insider tips on what to wear for your business headshot.
What to Wear for Your Business Headshot
San Diego’s professional atmosphere blends business casual with polished style. Your clothing choices should reflect this approachable culture. The key elements for your headshot include choosing photo-friendly colors, sharp-looking fits, and adding the right touches with strategic accessories, hair, and makeup.
With a great headshot outfit, your final photos can truly represent your professional self. Our professional headshot preparation includes carefully planning your wardrobe to make sure you look confident and approachable. We also offer personalized styling services, both beforehand and on site, to ensure you look your absolute best and feel completely prepared for your session.
| Category | Best Choices | Avoid | Considerations |
| Colors | Navy, charcoal, burgundy, white, or bold Jewel tones | Neon, full black, busy patterns | Earthy tones suit the natural backdrop or Bold Colors to Pop |
| Clothing | Blazers, button-downs, structured tops | Low necklines, logos, wrinkled items | Breathable fabrics for the warm weather |
| Accessories | Simple jewelry, classic watch | Chunky pieces, reflective items | Avoid pieces that catch harsh sun |
| Grooming | Professional makeup, styled hair | Heavy shimmer, glossy finishes | Use setting powder for humidity |
1. Harmonizing With the San Diego Vibe
San Diego has one of the most temperate climates, with low humidity in summer and year-round sunshine, thanks to a coastal breeze. This means you can have more flexibility and wear business-appropriate attire without worrying too much about the weather.
Embracing the Coastal Casual Vibe
San Diego’s business culture strikes a balance between professionalism and the city’s relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. Your headshot clothing can mirror this approach by choosing pieces that look refined without appearing overly formal.
- Opt for timeless casual pieces like a well-fitting, wrinkle-free polo shirt or blouse, business casual dress, or a sharp, untucked button-down in a light fabric.
- Incorporate coastal-inspired colors like seafoam green, ocean blue, or sandy beige to evoke a sense of place and tranquility.
- Consider materials that feel both professional and relaxed, such as high-quality linen or a crisp cotton blend, to strike the perfect balance.
Dressing for San Diego’s Unique Climate
Dressing for the weather helps you stay comfortable and confident during your shoot, which in turn helps you avoid a sweaty or uncomfortable appearance in your final photos.
- Wear breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or lightweight wool blends to stay cool and comfortable, even if the photo shoot is outdoors.
- Layer lightweight pieces like cardigans or lightweight blazers that can be easily adjusted during outdoor shoots.
- Pack a light jacket or wrap for early morning or evening sessions when temperatures can drop.
2. Applying General Principles for a Professional Headshot
While your look can reflect the San Diego vibes, these foundational principles apply to any great headshot, making you look your best and project a professional image.
Making Your Headshot Pop Using Color and Contrast
Colors play a major role in how professional and approachable you appear in your headshot. Strategic color choices create visual interest and help you stand out from the background.
- Do a color analysis to choose colors that complement your skin tone and eye color. For example, if you have blue eyes, wearing a deep navy or cobalt can make them sparkle.
- Opt for solid colors over busy patterns, as busy patterns can be distracting and take the focus away from your face.
- Contrast between dark and light tones to make you stand out from the background.
Tailoring Your Look With the Right Fit and Fabric
A perfect fit creates a clean silhouette and makes you look polished, while the right fabric drapes beautifully and holds its shape. These details let you project a confident and professional image, making a lasting impression.
- Get suits and dress shirts tailored to your exact measurements for the sharpest appearance.
- Wear fabrics that have a bit of structure, such as a high-quality cotton, wool, or a thicker synthetic blend, which resist wrinkles and photograph well.
- Do a “squat test” in front of the mirror before your session to check if the clothing moves with you and doesn’t pull or bunch in awkward ways.
3. Enhancing the Look With Finishing Touches
Accessories and grooming can show attention to detail and help you look completely put-together for the camera.
Accessorizing With Intention
Simple accessories work best, adding polish without distracting from your face. Since the camera picks up every detail, each piece should support your professional image.
- For earrings, opt for simple studs or small hoops that don’t dangle or distract from your face.
- If you wear a tie or a scarf, make sure it is neatly tied and complements the rest of your outfit without being too loud or flashy.
- Limit your jewelry to one or two intentional pieces, such as a classic watch, a simple necklace, or a ring, to avoid a cluttered look.
Get Camera-Ready With Hair and Makeup
Professional grooming makes you look more respectable and confident in photos. Camera lighting can wash out your features, so slight adjustments to your usual routine help you look your best.
- Apply slightly more blush and lip color than normal since lighting can wash out natural color.
- For hair, choose a style that is clean, professional, and stays in place.
- Bring a few touch-up items like blotting paper, powder, and a comb to the session to quickly fix any shine or stray hairs.
- Feel free to inquire about booking our professional hair & makeup artist to make you feel like your best self during your session.
Related Questions
What Are the Best Photo-Friendly Tips for Standout Headshot Sessions?
For a headshot session that truly stands out, prioritize a good night’s rest and arrive hydrated to achieve a fresh look. Pay close attention to the details of your attire, from its cleanliness to its fit, to look sharp and ready for the camera.
How Can the Location Impact My Headshot Wardrobe Choice?
Location greatly influences your wardrobe. A beach backdrop requires a different aesthetic than a downtown office. For example, a casual linen blazer suits a seaside shoot, while a structured suit jacket is better for an urban setting.
How Can You Look Good in a Professional Headshot?
To look your best in a professional headshot, prepare clothes that fit perfectly and make you feel confident. Our photographers can guide you on what to wear and how to pose, making sure headshots project the professional and approachable image you desire.
Conclusion
With the right outfit preparation, you’ll feel confident and look polished, ready to use your new headshots to advance your career. Book a session with experienced San Diego business headshot photographers who understand local business culture and can guide you through the entire process.
