Headshot Event Prep Guide

 So you booked your session. Now what? 

Preparing for a studio headshot session is key to ensuring that you get the best possible photos. Here's a brief guide to help you prepare for your session:

Choose Your Outfit Carefully

Solid Colors: Opt for solid colors that complement your skin tone. Avoid overly bright colors and complex patterns that might distract from your face.

Fit: Wear clothes that fit well. Clothes that are too loose or too tight can be unflattering in photos. A blazer or cardigan can easily change up your look.

Grooming

Hair: Choose a hairstyle that looks like you on your best day. Avoid trying a new haircut right before the session.
Makeup: Aim for a natural look. While professional makeup can be beneficial, it should enhance your features, not hide them. Finish your look with a bit of translucent powder to avoid shine.

Local MUAH stylist recommendations are at the bottom of this page.

Skin Care

Hydrate: Drink plenty of water in the days before your shoot to help your skin look its best.
Moisturize: Apply a good moisturizer the night before and the morning of your session to avoid dry skin.
Avoid Sunburn: Stay out of the sun to prevent burns or uneven tans, which can be difficult to correct in photos.

Practice Your Poses

Spend time in front of a mirror practicing your smile and finding your best angles. Being familiar with how you look when you're smiling naturally or posing will help you feel more comfortable during the shoot.

Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Ensure you're well-rested before the day of the shoot to avoid looking tired in your photos.

Communicate with Your Photographer

Discuss your goals for the session, any concerns you have, and the style of headshot you're aiming for. Providing examples of headshots you like can also help guide the session.

Plan Your Arrival

Remember, you are scheduled for a specific time slot. Plan to arrive a little early to your session to have time to relax and make any last-minute adjustments to your appearance.

Relax and Have Fun

The best headshots come when you’re relaxed and enjoying the process. Trust your photographer, and don't be afraid to let your personality shine through.

Personal Styling: Are you just looking for a bit of inspiration? Click here for styling help, styling code SAPHOTO.

Preparing for your headshot session can make a big difference in the outcome of your photos. Following these steps will help ensure you look and feel your best, resulting in headshots that you'll be proud to share.

Make-Up & Hair Stylist Recommendations:

Kat Louis, Novato & Bay Area - katlouis.com
Maria Lee, San Francisco - marialeemakeup.com
Elise Bigley, SF & LA - makeupartbyelise.com
Salon 171, Mill Valley - salon171millvalley.com
Style Bar, Greenbrae - the-stylebar.com
MilVali, SF & Mill Valley - milvali.com
Stacey Khuu, Marin County - instagram.com/staceykhuu.hair staceykhuusalon@gmail.com