[Professional Headshots by Vanie]
Despite all the insight I provide my clients— the wardrobe guidelines I send upon booking a headshot session, the wardrobe tips with samples, all the sample photos underneath my blog articles, and the tips on Instagram…
…the subject of wardrobe still seems to mystify actors. So here it is, the much-needed nitty-gritty on wardrobe. 👚
Andrew Kane: Casual Dad / Doctor
Ginny Hill: Office, Love Interest, Heroine
Below are some basic do’s and don’ts…
BUT FIRST, your wardrobe should include only items from your closet that you like! It seems obvious, but it’s truly surprising how many people bring wardrobes they don’t like, and when I choose that item to photograph them in, they object. 🤦♀️
- Do bring lots of vibrant primary colors.
- Stay away from black unless for a suit, leather jacket or hoodie or for anything edgy.
- Patterns to convey a look are totally okay because we keep the background simple so it doesn’t distract.
- White and pastels are now okay because we use AI in post to prevent it from becoming a hot spot no matter how dark your skin tone is!
- Graphic Tees are great for certain looks, in fact they are needed to clarify certain looks but in general, avoid logos if you can. If not, there’s always Photoshop!
- Do bring accessories, including hats, scarves, glasses, and jewelry that define you. You never know what look might be clarified a little bit more with the help of an accessory!
I bet you’re surprised by that last👆 one right? Cuz I bet you’re thinking “but Vanie, I’ve heard no jewelry, no this, no that.”
Same Fedele: Blue Collar Dad / Detective
Here’s the deal.
NONE of that is true. In the 26 years I’ve been a headshot photographer, I’ve never had an agent ask for a re-shoot because we used jewelry in a headshot.
Know why?
Because we use it to clarify the character. Not to satisfy your desire to wear a piece of jewelry you like.
Make sense?
Backyard BBQ Mom / Computer Tech / Anti Heroine / Victim
Ginny Hill: Hipster
Douglas Hachiya: Upscale Business / Professor
In fact, all those rules are created by reps to protect their clients from mistakes made by other, shall I say, maybe less experienced photographers.😬 Hey, we’ve all been there but…
Watch my IG video called “For Every Headshot Rule, Somebody Somewhere Messed Up.” for more clarity.
Ursula Maria: Lawyer / Casual Mom
Mark Sawyer: Suburban Grandfather / Middle Management
Stephanie Tyler: Hipster / Love Interest
OH! AND ONE MORE THING. If, after all this information, you still have questions about wardrobe, I highly recommend hiring a stylist. My go-to is a prior client, Rayne Parvis.
Feel free to contact her if you need help putting your looks together!
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I love helping you by putting out this free information (often written on weekends and evenings) so please help me spread the word by commenting and or sharing this post on your social feed! 🙏
I love your insights! So helpful