The following tips can help you prepare for your headshot session and avoid common mistakes. Some of these tips can be applied to other types of photo shoots.
You do not have to do this, but it will help in the photo shoot: watch the two short videos by Peter Hurley linked from the Resources page and spend a few minutes practicing Peter's recommendations.
Before the photoshoot, try staying on a healthy diet for at least one day: avoid alcohol, sodium, sugar, and fat. You may also want to stay aways from the spicy food.
Getting a good night's sleep is essential for looking your best. It will help to reduce dark circles and bags under your eyes, which are the most common areas of concern in the headshots. If you are unable to get a good night sleep, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. You can also use makeup to conceal the bags, but the best way to avoid bags under your eyes is to get enough sleep.
Wash your face to remove any dirt, oil, or makeup that could make your skin look dull or uneven. Use a gentle cleanser and warm water, and avoid scrubbing too hard. Do not use harsh skin care products (they can irritate the skin and make it look red or blotchy). If you wear makeup, use matte powder to reduce shine and balance out skin tone. If you have acne, treat it before the headshot session. To minimize appearance of blemishes, use a concealer. Make sure your makeup doesn't look too heavy.
To help better frame your face and make you look more polished, consider getting long hair trimmed before your headshot session. If your hair requires styling, book a morning session (when your hair is in its best condition). Trim facial hair to achieve a clean and professional look. If you shave, be sure to shave your face the day before your headshot session (this will give your skin time to heal and prevent any razor burns).
Wear (and bring) clothes that fit you well and make you feel confident. Dress appropriately for your industry. Suits are common for most business headshots. Even if you don't wear a suit at work, bring it just in case. Choose non-distracting clothing with solid colors. Avoid trendy fashion that will date your headshot. Jackets and sweaters in contrasting colors can make your headshot stand out. Make sure your clothes are wrinkle and lint free. Keep accessories to a minimum. If you insist on wearing accessories, choose simple and understated pieces that will complement your outfit.
Bring the following items to the photo session: