Choosing the right outfits and accessories for a personal brand photoshoot or professional headshot are just as important as finding the right photographer. There’s so many options for outfits and not all of them are best for this type of shoot. Should you wear a flowy dress, the navy button-down shirt, jeans or maybe the zebra print pantsuit? High-heels, flats, barefoot or those hot above the knee boots? Being intentional about your outfits and dressing with style to create a look that will be on-brand for your business and marketing message is important.
“The first thing others see is YOU—not your resume, background, or credentials. A picture is truly worth a thousand words and how you dress is the “picture” you provide for all the world to see.”
Susan C. Young- Positive Impact & Change Expert
What’s your go-to outfit for meetings or to impress an important client? What are your brand colors? These are important factors to keep in mind when you follow these tips to show up with confidence and dress in style. Your clothes should convey your personality, character and expertise.
Solid, one-piece dresses create a flattering silhouette and make it easy to pose in.
Keep things timeless with classic styles. This will keep the the focus on you and not your outfit. If you want a pop of color, add it under your blazer.
Oversized clothes or lots of layers tend to make you appear larger than you actually are. Stick to form fitting clothes to help accentuate your body. These also photograph better than bulky outfits.
What is your brand message? Keep it in mind and who your target audience is when you are choosing your colors. Are you looking to connect with people in the art scene or finance world? Your styling will send a message. Make it one that counts.
Start with what’s underneath. We suggest starting with good undergarments that allow your clothes to lay smoothly and support you in the right places.
What Colors Should You Wear?
First, consider what colors flatter your skin tone. When you wear tops that are the best color for you, your eyes will sparkle and your skin will look healthy and glowing.
Colors can help you send a brand message. Blues and greens are colors that exude trust and work well in the finance and health industries. Red can show power. Black, gold and jewel tones are luxurious and elegant.
Consider your hair and skin color? Find contrasting colors to create interest. Red heads can easily wear greens. Someone with darker skin or hair can wear very light colors to create beautiful contrast. Pull out a color wheel to experiment with finding your best complementary colors.
Avoid Clothing That Draws Attention Away From You
Avoid clothing with words or logos on it. Unless, of course, the words are part of your brand’s marketing message.
Shiny and reflective clothing. Stand in front of the window and notice how the light is reflected off your clothing. Take a selfie and evaluate your image. This can include more than just biking shirts. lol. Sequin tops can also cause reflections.
Prints can be ok if the are large. Loud prints can overpower you. You can definitely wear an animal or bold print when paired with a solid piece.
Clothing that is off-brand will confuse your audience, and you want your message to be clear in ALL of your marketing images.
Dress With Your Brand Message In Mind
Make sure to communicate with your photographer about your wardrobe. At AHF Media, we’ll help you create a session wardrobe that shows who you are and accentuates your brand message. Take a look at our personal brand gallery to see how a session could help your business.
Bonus Tip
Who isn’t on Pinterest, right? Take a few minutes to create a style board on there. Save clothing styles that draw your attention, colors you like or show your brand and scenes that you could see doing for your own personal brand session. Remember to leave comments on each pin so you remember what you liked about it when you share it with your photographer. You can check out AFH Media’s Pinterest Board for Personal Brand Photography HERE
If you're ready to take your business to the next level, reach out to AFH Media to discuss your personal brand session!
Such great tips for choosing outfits to wear for headshots and branding photos! I know we use the same ideas as we do for other photo shoots, but for branding, you have to keep yoru business in mind too. Excellent post!