How to Prepare for Headshots

Last updated: February 2026

If you’re wondering how to prepare for headshots, you’re in the right place. The best headshots happen when you show up relaxed, organized, and dressed in a way that supports your brand (not distracts from it). Use this guide as your step-by-step checklist – covering wardrobe, grooming, what to bring, and what to expect during the session.

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How to Prepare for Headshots: Quick Checklist

Here’s the simple version. If you do nothing else, do these:

• Choose outfits that feel like “you,” fit well, and photograph cleanly

• Confirm your background choices (or send references)

• Steam/iron clothing – I have a steamer you can use

• Get good sleep + hydrate the day before

• Bring touch-up basics (powder, comb/brush, lip balm, etc.)

• Arrive 10 minutes early so you’re not rushed

• Practice a few expressions so you feel confident (more on this below)

Now let’s go deeper.

Studio Location

Headshots LA studio is located in South Park, Downtown Los Angeles:

1130 S Flower St, Suite 201, Los Angeles, CA 90015

If you’re running late, text/call before you arrive so we can adjust smoothly and keep your session stress-free.

Parking Options

Parking in DTLA can vary, so here are practical options:

• Secure garage option: Private garage near 1111 S Hope St, Los Angeles, CA 90015

• Typical range: Parking is often $10

• Payment: Some lots are card-friendly, some are not – bring a card and a little cash just in case

• The Pico Train Station is on my block

Tip: Arrive 10–15 minutes early to allow for parking and getting settled.

What to Wear for Headshots (The Golden Rules)

When people ask how to prepare for headshots, wardrobe is usually the biggest stress point – so let’s simplify it.

Choose clothes that do this:

• Frame your face (neckline matters)

• Fit cleanly (no pulling, bunching, or sagging)

• Support your brand (your “type,” vibe, and casting lane)

• Stay timeless (avoid anything that will look dated fast)

Avoid clothes that do this:

• Distract from your eyes and expression

• Create odd shapes (boxy or oversized fit, unless it’s intentionally your brand)

• Add visual noise (busy patterns, loud logos, heavy textures that steal attention)

Theatrical / Acting Headshots: Wardrobe Tips

If your session is actor-focused, keep it grounded and believable.

Do:

• Muted, medium-intensity colors (not neon, not overly bright)

• Earth tones + classic neutrals: grays, browns, blacks, navy, forest green

• Layers that look intentional: jacket, clean sweater, fitted top

• Modern cuts that don’t feel trendy or extreme

• Simple shirts that frame your face and keep attention on your eyes

Don’t:

• Spaghetti straps (unless it’s specifically your brand/type)

• Busy patterns or tiny repeating prints

• Overly stylized pieces (big shiny buttons, loud zippers, extreme fashion details)

• Pure bright white as your main look (it can compete with your face and blow out)

• Anything see-through or overly distracting

Simple test: If someone remembers your shirt before your expression, it’s the wrong shirt.

Commercial Headshots: Wardrobe Tips

Commercial is often brighter, more approachable, more “alive” – but still controlled.

Do:

• Colorful tops that complement your eyes/skin/hair

• Modern cuts that feel current

• Solid colors with clean lines

• Light layering (jacket or overshirt can add dimension)

Don’t:

• Too colorful or too bright (to the point it becomes the main subject)

• Busy patterns

• Outdated styles or unflattering cuts

• Baggy clothing

• Logos, slogans, or branding

• Anything distracting or see-through

What to Bring to a Headshot Session

Here’s what to pack so you feel prepared and confident:

Essentials

• Your outfits (I have hangers. Hang them up when you arrive)

• A simple jacket/layer option
  
  

Grooming / touch-up

• Comb/brush

• Hair products you already use

• Blotting paper or translucent powder

• Lip balm

• Eye drops (if your eyes get dry/red)

Optional (but helpful)

• A small snack (especially if you’re doing multiple looks)

• A lint roller (or we’ll have one available)

• Makeup bag for small adjustments between looks

Grooming Tips the Day Before

This is one of the most overlooked parts of how to prepare for headshots.

• Hydrate and keep salt/alcohol low the night before (less puffiness)

• Get sleep (your eyes photograph better with rest)

• Moisturize (but avoid shiny new products you haven’t tested)

• Avoid sunburn or heavy tanning right before your session

• Men: shave/trim as you want to appear – don’t try a new style the morning of. You can shave at the studio if you need to.

• Everyone: don’t experiment with new skincare, hair dye, or drastic haircuts right before

Practice (Without Getting Weird About It)

You don’t need to “act” in the mirror for an hour. Just build familiarity so you show up ready.

Try:

• Neutral + confident

• Warm smile

• Slight smile (commercial-friendly)

• Serious/grounded (theatrical-friendly)

Pro tip: Think of a real situation that brings the emotion up naturally. It reads better than forcing a face.

How a Headshot Session Works

If you’re nervous, this part matters. When you know the process, it’s easier to relax – and that’s when you get your best shots.

Before the shoot

• We go through your outfit choices and match them with backgrounds

• You’ll confirm your looks and we’ll make sure everything photographs cleanly

• Quick final touch-ups (hair, shine control, lint check)

During the shoot

• I’ll guide you through posing and small adjustments that make a big difference

• We’ll shoot with variety and intention (not random “spray and pray”)

• In Studio Real-time photo review helps us refine quickly so you get exactly what you want. We only do a quick review on the back of the camera outside.

• We’ll photograph the outfits in order that makes since with your hair and makeup

After the shoot

• You’ll receive your images in an online gallery called Pixiset

• You’ll choose favorites and send them to retouchinghsla@outlook.com

• Retouching is done in a natural, flattering style – still you, just polished

• Final images are delivered ready for casting submissions, reps, websites, and social

Learn about retouching

Common Mistakes That Ruin Headshots (Easy to Avoid)

If you want a fast upgrade, avoid these:

• Wearing clothes that don’t fit properly

• Forgetting to steam/iron (wrinkles show)

• Choosing loud patterns/logos

• Trying a brand-new look the day of (new haircut, new makeup, new skincare)

• Showing up rushed and stressed (arrive early)

When clients follow this guide on how to prepare for headshots, the session feels easier – and the results look more confident.

FAQ: How to Prepare for Headshots

How early should I arrive?

Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes early to handle parking and settle in.

Ready to Book?

Now you know how to prepare for headshots – the next step is choosing the right session.

• [View Headshot Packages]

• [See Actor Headshots]

• [Book Your Session / Contact Headshots LA]

A professional headshot should be a close-up or medium close-up. The lighting should be even and natural, without heavy shadows or dramatic contrast. This makes it easy for casting directors to clearly see your facial features. Your natural symmetry and structure should be immediately readable at a glance.

More than 5 outfits usually becomes less efficient. It’s better to do fewer looks with stronger intention. Some can do it but be prepared for a marathon.

Totally normal. You don’t need to know how to pose – I’ll coach you through it. The goal is to get you comfortable fast so your expression looks natural. You will be in good hands.

You can bring a friend but often it can be a distraction and make you feel more stressed.

80 percent of people do their own makeup. But if you like having a MUA that is totally normal. It’s a personal preference.