Melissa McCann Photography

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How to Prepare for Your Headshot Session

I send a guide to all my headshot clients detailing how to prepare for their session.  Below I list some of my top tips.  Remember these are guidelines to consider not hard and fast rules.  You want to look and feel your best for your session!


Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Everyone looks better when he or she is well rested.  Try to schedule your session when you know you can get to bed the night before at a reasonable hour.

Clothing Tips

*Bring two tops (or a jacket to put over a shirt). You will be surprised how important it is to get two different looks from your session.  It is impossible to know ahead of time which one you will prefer. 

*Avoid busy patterns and stripes.

*Avoid loose fitting clothing.  It will only make you look bigger. 

*Avoid short sleeves.  It is not flattering to cut up your arms. Long sleeves, cap sleeves or 3/4 sleeves are preferable or sleeveless tops..

*Give some thought to your neckline (this is especially important for women). 

*Choose colors that look good on you.  Be deliberate.

Make Up Tips

*Make sure your skin is well moisturized.

*Wear foundation but don’t go overboard.  Avoid “dewy” or “glowy” foundations.  You want to avoid shine..

*Avoid sunscreen in your products which tend to make skin look shiny.

*Don’t go too heavy with your eye make-up. Neutral colors look best.

*Wear lip color that suits you and bring it along for retouching.

*Use powder to set your make-up and bring it along for blotting.

Hair Tips

* Consider getting your hair professionally done for the session.

*Don’t try a new hairstyle the day of your session.

*Avoid flyways with light hairspray.