What to Wear - Women’s Corporate Headshots in San Francisco
A woman wearing a blazer in her corporate headshots in San Francisco.
If you’re facing decision-paralysis about what to wear in your corporate headshots in San Francisco, here are a few easy steps to glide past the roadblock. Go to your wardrobe, pick out your favorite professional outfit and think about why it has that status in your personal style book.
For example, do you like how the color complements your skin tone? Do people compliment that dress as being the perfect fit? Do strangers regularly ask you where you bought that necklace? Does your blazer instantly smarten up your every outfit? What is your go-to outfit whenever you want to make a great first impression on a potential employer, investor, sales prospect or on the first day of a new job?
When it comes to choosing what to wear in your corporate headshot in San Francisco, you should generally wear your favorite professional outfit. Compliments on how well your outfit suits you, can provide you with valuable clues. However, bear in mind that fashion can become dated quickly and what looks good in real life does not always photograph well. The below guidelines provide an indication about whether your favorite outfit is a good choice for your corporate headshot in San Francisco.
A Classic & Timeless Style
Whether you wear a dress, a pant suit, a blouse and skirt or even a t-shirt, choose a classic style. Not only does that look more sophisticated, the photo will not date as quickly. After all, you want your headshot to last beyond one fashion season. Tailored outfits in solid colors generally stand the test of time. On the other hand, you may opt for outfit choices that are more edgy and bold depending on your industry and personal brand.
A woman in a sapphire blue top - jewel colors are a good choice for corporate headshots in San Francisco.
Neutral or Jewel Colors
Neutral or jewel colors are generally a good option for corporate headshots in San Francisco. If you’re wondering about what a neutral or jewel palette is, the former includes beige, grey, black and white. The latter includes emerald, sapphire blue, ruby and rose quartz. It can even include citrine yellow, but yellow can be a hard color to pull off. Choose a color that flatters your complexion or brings out your eyes.
Solid colors are a more classic choice and don’t date quickly. That said, subtle stripes or tasteful prints can work well, as long as they are not too distracting. If you frame it with a dark jacket or blazer, the print or pattern can give your outfit a little panache. Avoid logos, neons or anything too bright, focus-pulling or clashing.
Tailored & Flattering Fits
Wear blouses, shirts, jackets, blazers or dresses that flatter your silhouette. Tailored and fitted outfits are your best choice. A flowy dress which may look dynamic in a full body shot often appears boxy in a headshot. Likewise, a loose blouse which works well with tailored trousers may lose its impact in a headshot due to the tight cropping.
Jackets, Blazers & Scarves
If you’re wondering whether to wear a jacket or blazer in your headshot, bring it along as a wardrobe choice for your corporate headshot session. Scarves can provide a pop of color, so if it’s part of your outfit, bring that along too. Ask your photographer for advice on what will photograph well and arrange headshots that include options with and without the layers.
Necklines
Generally, necklines that generally look good in corporate headshots in San Francisco include boat necks, collars, crew and V-necks. Cowl necklines, turtle necks or keyholes can also work. Avoid plunging tops such as low-cut scoops or sweetheart necklines. Asymmetrical necklines generally don’t work in a headshot.
Round neck tops are a flattering choice and jewelry can add elegance to your outfit when posing for corporate headshots in San Francisco.
Jewelry, Make-Up & Glasses
Jewelry can add elegance or flair to your outfit. Make sure that the earrings, necklace or jewelry set that you’re wearing complements the rest of your clothes. Be aware that a long necklace may be cropped out in a corporate headshot, so tie it up at the back to shorten it. Simple is often best, although statement jewelry can add a welcoming pop of color.
If you usually wear glasses or have fashion glasses that go with your outfit, bring that along.
When it comes to make-up, apply your foundation and powder natural and evenly. Ensure it matches your skin tone as much as possible. Avoid a sheer or dewy look on your skin as it often appears shiny in photos. Keep your blush subtle. Mascara works, but avoid eyeshadow that shimmers or is in a dramatic or metallic shade.
Have a conversation with your professional photographer about your wardrobe selection prior to your corporate photoshoot in San Francisco. Your photographer can also advise on a background which complements your outfit. If they have a studio, they may offer a choice of backgrounds in grey, white or black colors. They may also have immediate access to outdoor locations such as a stair case, a brick wall or green space. Remember, your professional photographer is both your creative director and partner in your session so remember to collaborate with them for your perfect headshot.
Slava Blazer Photography has 12 years’ experience with capturing stand-out corporate headshots in San Francisco for executives, new business owners and other professionals. Contact us today for a consultation or to line up your corporate photo shoot.