What to wear to a personal branding photoshoot

What you wear on a personal branding photoshoot will make a huge difference to the final result. It also allows you to show your personality and show elements of who you are to your clients. There’s no need to spend loads of money on finding the right wardrobe. But the one thing that is certain is making sure your clothes fit well.

Women

• Contrary to what you might think, wearing clothes that figure hug your body are actually the most effective when it comes to branding. Loose clothing just doesn’t translate on camera as well as it does in real life. I’m a huge fan or loose clothing myself, but the lack of waist line or baggy sleeves can actually add pounds on in the camera where those pounds don’t even exist.

• The correct underwear is vital for any photoshoot not just branding. The supportive nature of a good fitted bra will make a huge difference whether you’re large chested or small chested. The correct undergarments just create the correct silhouette underneath clothing that immediately makes you look more professional. So it’s the one time to switch out sports bras for a proper bra please! Spanx and figure tightening garments are up to you. If you like to wear them when you’re going to an event then consider bringing them. But don’t feel you have to smooth out your body for me. I’m a big fan of curves and being happy with the body you’re in. I just need support where support is required and that’s typically the boobs!

• Avoid any clothing with logos or wording. As trendy as these garments might be I find that anything that strays away from simple can date quickly. Unless it’s specific to your branding I’d say avoid just because you want these images to be able to be used in years to come too.

Men

• Make sure all suits are tailored or fit you well. Men in suits provide a great, professional image. But a poorly fitted suit will detract from that quickly.

• Choose fitted shirts over loose, baggy shirts. For the same reason as for women, a slimmer cut will enhance your body whereas a baggy shirt will add on needless pounds in a photograph. The one thing to remember is that photography is a captured moment, it’s not real life. In real life if you wear a looser, comfier shirt your natural movement will define your body shape. A picture can’t do that, so instead we have to visually show that through the clothing you pick.

• Unless specific to your brand avoid garments with logos on or heavily patterned items. Simple block colours come across better.

• Bring along a tie, a bow tie, funky socks, braces, polished shoes… anything that can add character to your session whether you wear them in real life or not.

If you would like to discuss with me your own headshot or personal branding session, you can learn more about my She Means Business Project here. Just let me know your business name and phone number using the form below and I’ll give you a call to discuss your needs.