What to Wear for Professional Headshots: A Simple NW Ohio Style Guide for Men & Women
By Brian Bushong Photography — Guided, Confident, Professional Headshots in Northwest Ohio
Choosing what to wear for a headshot sounds simple until you’re standing in front of your closet wondering which option actually looks professional on camera. You want to look polished, confident, and put together—but not stiff or overdone. The good news? When you understand a few simple guidelines, choosing the right outfit becomes easy.
Whether you're in Toledo, Perrysburg, Bowling Green, or Sylvania, this guide will help you pick clothing that photographs beautifully and reflects the professional presence you want to communicate.
Start With This Rule: Wear What Makes You Feel Confident
That's Me - Brian
After photographing hundreds of headshots across Northwest Ohio, the images that clients love most are the ones where they look relaxed, natural, and genuinely comfortable.
If you feel uncomfortable in an outfit, it will show, no matter how “correct” it looks on paper. Your outfit should support your confidence and not steal from it.
What Women Should Wear for Professional Headshots
Solid colors almost always photograph best. In my experience, mid-tones—navy, forest green, burgundy—tend to flatter both skin tones and studio backgrounds without pulling attention away from your face.
Neon and busy patterns almost always pull attention away from your face and trendy prints date faster than most people expect.
2. Select Simple, Clean Necklines
Great necklines that photograph well:
- V-neck
- Scoop neck
- Structured crew neck
- Soft draping tops
3. Bring Layers
A blazer, jacket, or lightweight cardigan adds structure and polish. Layers also give you variety and options during the session.
4. Jewelry: Minimal and Intentional
Jewelry should stay in the background. If it is the first thing you notice in the mirror, it will probably be the first thing the camera notices too. Stud earrings or small hoops usually work best. If you wear a necklace daily, a simple pendant is fine—just avoid anything that competes with your face. I also suggest avoiding reflective or oversized pieces that catch light.
5. Makeup: Natural, Clean, and Matte
You don’t need “more” makeup—just intentional makeup.
- Mattifying powder reduces shine
- Neutral tones look timeless
- Mascara helps open the eyes
What Men Should Wear for Professional Headshots
Shirts that always work:
- Crisp white or light blue oxford
- Navy or charcoal dress shirt
- Timeless button-ups in subtle textures
2. Blazers and Jackets Add Shape
A well-fitted jacket does a lot of work for you on camera. It defines your shoulders and immediately elevates the image, even if the rest of your outfit is simple. If you don’t normally wear suits, a sport coat still photographs incredibly well.
3. Ties: Optional but Strategic
If you wear ties professionally, bring a couple:
- Navy
- Deep red
- Charcoal
- Simple textures
- Thin stripes
4. Grooming Matters More Than People Expect
Small details show up quickly in high-resolution images. A fresh shave or clean beard line, moisturized skin, and neatly styled hair make a noticeable difference.
Bring ChapStick to avoid lip shine.
NW Ohio Style Tip: Dress for the Role You Have and the One You Want
Your headshot communicates more than appearance—it reflects your professionalism, confidence, and direction. The way you present yourself visually sets expectations immediately.
Whether you're an educator in Bowling Green, a medical professional in Toledo, a real estate agent in Perrysburg, or a business leader in Sylvania—the way you present yourself visually sets expectations before you ever say a word.
Final Prep Checklist
- 2–3 tops
- One jacket or layering piece
- Lint rollerLip balm
- Hairbrush or comb
