Your company just announced an upcoming headshot day at the office.

You might be excited. You might be indifferent. Or you might be looking for ways to be mysteriously “out of office” that day.

Before you start planning your escape, here are a few simple tips to help you get a great headshot with minimal stress.

Quick Guide: Company Headshots

A little preparation goes a long way toward creating a headshot you’ll be proud to use.

Follow any company dress guidelines
Wear clean, well-fitting clothing
Stick to your normal beauty & grooming routine
Get a good night's sleep
Drink plenty of water
Arrive with an open mind

What to Wear

1. Follow company guidelines first

If your company has requested suits, branded apparel, company colors, or a specific dress code, start there. Consistency across the team is often more important than individual preferences.

2. Keep the focus on your face

Solid colors tend to photograph best because they keep attention on you rather than your clothing. Avoid bold patterns, distracting graphics, and logos that aren't company-related. Also recommend 3/4-length or long sleeves for a professional office setting.

3. Wear clothes that fit

Fit matters more than fashion. A simple shirt or jacket that fits well will almost always look better than a trendy outfit that doesn't. Before headshot day, take two minutes to try on your outfit. What fit perfectly two years ago may now be too tight, too loose, or simply showing its age.

✨ Pro tip: A blazer or jacket is one of the easiest ways to create a polished, professional look without feeling overly formal. For men, avoid visible undershirts. For women, tops without collars tend to sit more smoothly under a jacket and create a cleaner neckline.

Beauty & Grooming Tips

The best headshots look authentic, so avoid making dramatic changes right before photo day.

Stick to your normal hairstyle and makeup routine
If you're getting a haircut, about a week beforehand often photographs best
Wear glasses if that's how people typically see you
Keep nails neutral or understated

Most importantly, get a good night's sleep and stay hydrated. You'll look and feel more refreshed in front of the camera.

What to Expect on Headshot Day

If you're feeling a little nervous about being photographed, you're not alone.

The good news is that your session will only take a few minutes, and you won't be left wondering what to do. I'll guide you through the entire process, including posture, angles, and expressions.

My goal is to create as much variety as possible in a short amount of time so you have great options to choose from. Most people leave feeling relieved to discover it was quick, painless, and maybe even a little fun.

The Secret to a Great Headshot

The most common mistake I see is spending more time worrying about the photo than preparing for it.

A well-fitting outfit, a good night's sleep, and a positive attitude will have a bigger impact on your final image than stressing about every perceived flaw.

Come prepared, trust the process, and give yourself permission to relax. The more comfortable you are, the more natural and confident your headshot will be.

Choosing Your Final Headshot

When it's time to select your image, remember that a headshot is a tool for connecting your name to your face.

Choose the image that:

Looks like you
Feels engaging and approachable
Aligns with your role and industry
Makes a strong first impression

And don't zoom in looking for tiny imerfections. Most people will view your headshot at the size of a postage stamp on a website, email signature, or LinkedIn profile.

Final Thoughts

The best company headshots happen when preparation meets trust.

Show up looking like yourself, be open to a little coaching, and let me handle the rest.

You might even walk away saying what I hear after almost every headshot day:

"That wasn't so bad. It was actually kind of fun."

Meet Your Photographer

Hi, I'm Megan.

Fun fact: before becoming a photographer, I worked as a chemical engineer.

These days, instead of solving technical problems, I solve questions like "Can you make me look less awkward?"

The answer, by the way, is yes.

After photographing thousands of professionals, I've learned that a little guidance goes a long way. My goal is to make headshot day easy, efficient, and maybe even a little fun.

Have a specific question about your upcoming company headshot day? Send me a message.

How to Prepare for Your Company Headshot Day