Top 5 clothing options for men to bring to a headshot session.
Knowing what to bring, outfit wise, to a headshot session can be a little daunting for sure, especially if you’re not much of a fashionisto. Below are my go-to looks for the guys. Of course, all body types are different and not every look will necessarily work for every guy, but there is definitely something for everyone.
Things to consider:
Fit is EVERYTHING! When things are too big, it makes you look heavier than you are, too small and you look like the Incredible Hulk ripping out of your shirt. Google is your best friend here, there are all kinds of articles out there on how to make sure mens clothing fits properly.
In general, we are photographing from the waist up, or more likely the chest up, so neckline/ collar are things to pay special attention to.
VARIETY of colours and tones are great! Start with basics like black, white, grey and even navy and go from there. Bright fun colours can be great too for a fun shot, but the basics make sure we’re keeping the focus on your face.
These are all just basic guide lines and jumping off points, there’s always room to draw outside the lines. We are “creatives,” after all! If there’s something you absolutely LOVE or know you look good in… or is totally out there, but you’re dying to try, BRING IT! Who knows? It could turn out to be our best shot!
1. BASIC CREW NECK T-SHIRT
Can’t really go wrong here, especially if we’re looking to ‘show off those guns.’ Bring as many colour options as you have, but black, white, grey, navy, or any neutral tone would be where to start.
FIT is key here! If it’s too big you look like you’re trying on your dad’s clothes, too small and you look like the Incredible Hulk busting out of your shirt. Neither is a good fit, if you know what I mean.
Nabil in a plain grey tee with an interesting neckline.
Ben Sutherland in a plain black tee, shot on black to make his face and arms stand out.
2. BASIC VEE NECK TEE
A wild deviation from the last suggestion I know! A Vee neck really works in a headshot because it creates lines leading away from the face at the bottom of the frame which will make your neck look longer and you feel taller.
The FIT rules from above apply here too. Get that fit like Goldilocks, juuuuust right.
Tim in a green v-neck tee, his sleeves rolled up a little to give it a more stylish touch.
Thomas in a grey vee neck tee, shot on white to make sure Thomas is the focus of attention.
3. HENLEY
Bet you didn’t know those shirts with the three buttons at the top were called a Henley! Like the Vee, great for creating something interesting going on at the neckline. These also sometimes have interesting details at the sleeves, as seen below.
Araya in a white Henley
Brandon in a blue Henley
4. JACKETS FOR LAYERING
I love a good jacket and shirt combo. Whether it be a stylish leather jacket over a white button up or a simple yet classic denim jacket over a sweater or a t-shirt, the jacket look just adds something more interesting and helps to create a photo that has more character. These layers create lines that move the eye upwards.
Anthony in a great denim and wool combo.
The collar gives Ben something to interact with here.
This combo could have been too much but the collarless white shirt underneath really helps to make this look feel understated.
5. BUTTON UP
A button up is a great option too and these days can show both a somewhat casual side, as well as polished presentation. Always keep in mind though that a button up HAS TO FIT. Take the time to find your measurements and really look for a shirt that fits in the right places, such as your chest and arms. If you are shopping for a shirt for the shoot, ask for help from the good people in retail. They can help you size properly. Shirts that are too big look, sloppy, too small and it looks like the seams might burst.
Daniel in a crisp, perfectly fitting light blue button up.
Shomari in a killer blue button up.
BONUS CONTENT
Links about shirts!
How a dress shirt should fit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cCEDtjxrKNY
Types of shirts: https://www.thetrendspotter.net/types-of-shirts/
Types of shirts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ne36P0lFUwE