Congratulations on booking your headshot session!

Whether this is your very first professional headshot or it's simply time for an update, I'm excited to work with you. My goal is to make the entire experience enjoyable, stress-free, and leave you with images you're genuinely proud to share.

This guide will help you prepare for your session so you can walk through the studio doors feeling relaxed, confident, and ready to create a headshot that represents you at your very best.

Why Your Headshot Matters

Your headshot is often your first introduction.

Before someone meets you in person, they've probably already seen your LinkedIn profile, company website, marketing materials, speaker biography, or social media. In many cases, your headshot helps shape that first impression.

A professional headshot should look like you on your very best day. It should feel approachable, confident, polished, and authentic. My job is to help you create an image that not only looks great, but also reflects who you are and how you want others to remember you.

Start With the End in Mind

Before choosing what to wear or thinking about your hairstyle, ask yourself one simple question:

Where will this headshot be used?

Someone updating a LinkedIn profile may want a different look than an entrepreneur building a personal brand or a keynote speaker promoting an upcoming event.

During your consultation, we'll talk about how your headshot will be used so we can create images that support your goals while still feeling natural and authentic.

Wardrobe: Wear Something That Feels Like You

One of the biggest questions I receive is, "What should I wear?"

The answer is surprisingly simple.

Choose clothing that makes you feel comfortable and confident. If you're uncomfortable in what you're wearing, there's a good chance it will show in your expression and body language.

I recommend bringing two or three wardrobe options whenever possible. Different colors, fabrics, necklines, and layers photograph differently, and having options allows us to choose what works best once you're in the studio.

Solid colors generally photograph better than busy patterns or large logos. Jackets, blazers, sweaters, and layers can add variety without distracting from your face.

For men, consider bringing a few different jacket, shirt, and tie combinations if your profession calls for business attire.

For women, bringing a variety of blouses, jackets, or dresses gives us flexibility to create different looks while keeping the overall style cohesive.

If you wear glasses regularly, please bring them. If you have more than one pair, bring those as well. We'll determine which pair photographs best and minimize glare whenever possible.

Accessories should complement your look rather than compete with it. Simple jewelry typically photographs best because it keeps the attention where it belongs—on you.

If you're unsure about an outfit, bring it. I'd much rather help you decide in the studio than wish you'd brought another option.

Hair & Makeup

For Women

Professional makeup isn't required, but many clients find it helpful because studio lighting can soften facial features.

If you're doing your own makeup, aim for a polished, natural look that still feels like you. The goal isn't to look dramatically different—it's to look refreshed and camera-ready.

If you're planning a haircut or hair color appointment, I recommend scheduling it about five to seven days before your session. This gives everything time to settle naturally while still looking fresh.

Please arrive with your hair styled the way you would normally wear it for an important meeting or professional event. Small adjustments can always be made in the studio.

For Men

Makeup isn't necessary, but light grooming can make a noticeable difference under professional lighting.

If you're planning a haircut, try to schedule it several days before your session rather than the day before. Fresh haircuts often soften after a few days and tend to photograph more naturally.

If you wear facial hair, simply arrive with it trimmed and styled the way you normally wear it. Whether you're clean-shaven, have light stubble, or a full beard, the most important thing is that it looks intentional and well maintained.

Take Care of Yourself

One of the easiest ways to improve your headshot has nothing to do with the camera.

Getting a good night's sleep, staying hydrated, and eating a light breakfast before your session can help you look and feel your best. These simple habits can leave you looking more refreshed, reduce signs of fatigue, and help you feel more relaxed in front of the camera.

You don't need to make dramatic changes before your session—just take care of yourself the same way you would before an important presentation, interview, or meeting. A little preparation goes a long way.

The Day Before Your Session

The day before your session is a great time to gather everything you'll need.

Lay out your wardrobe choices, check for wrinkles, polish shoes if they'll be visible, and make sure any accessories are ready to go. If needed, steam or press your clothing ahead of time.

Avoid making major changes to your appearance right before your session. A new hairstyle, different hair color, or trying a new skincare product is usually best saved for another day.

The Morning of Your Session

Keep the morning as relaxed as possible.

Give yourself plenty of time so you're not rushing to the studio. Eat a light meal, drink some water, and take a few minutes to slow down before you arrive.

If you have wardrobe options, bring them with you. I'll be happy to help you decide what photographs best.

There's No Such Thing as Being Photogenic

One of the most common things I hear before a session is, "I'm just not photogenic."

Here's the good news: I don't believe that's true.

Most people aren't uncomfortable because they aren't photogenic—they're uncomfortable because they're not used to being professionally photographed. Those are two very different things.

A great headshot isn't about luck or having a certain kind of face. It's the result of good lighting, thoughtful posing, natural expressions, and someone behind the camera who knows how to bring out your best.

That's where I come in.

Throughout your session, I'll coach you every step of the way. I'll guide your posture, help you find natural expressions, and make small adjustments that most people would never think about on their own. We'll review your images together as we go so you can see what's working, make refinements, and ensure you're leaving with images you're genuinely excited to use.

You don't have to be photogenic. You just have to show up. I'll take care of the rest.

What to Expect During Your Session

When you arrive, we'll begin by reviewing your wardrobe and discussing the look you're hoping to achieve.

From there, I'll guide you through every part of the session. You'll never be left wondering where to stand, what to do with your hands, or whether your smile looks natural. I'll coach you through posture, body position, head angle, and expression while making small adjustments throughout the session.

One of my favorite parts of the experience is reviewing your images together. Rather than waiting until later to see the results, you'll have the opportunity to see your images as we go, allowing us to make refinements and create photographs you'll feel confident using.

Most clients tell me the session was much easier—and a lot more enjoyable—than they expected.

Final Thoughts

Thank you again for trusting me with something as important as your professional image.

Whether your headshot is for your career, your business, your personal brand, or simply the next chapter in your life, I'm looking forward to helping you create images that represent you with confidence and authenticity.

If you have any questions before your session—including wardrobe choices or anything else—please don't hesitate to reach out. I'm always happy to help.

I'll see you soon!

Matt Young
Matt Young Photography