GENERAL HEADSHOT TIPS

• Stay away from flesh-tones, like light yellow, nude, or light tan. Clothes that contrast against your skin will look better.
• Avoid neon/bright/fluorescent/highlighter colors. It will wash you out.
• Look for jewel tones: navy, maroon/burgundy/ruby, emerald. These look good on just about everyone!
• Skip logos and busy patterns. We want to focus on you!
• Don’t worry too much about pants and shoes; the image will not capture anything below your hips – likely nothing lower than your waist.
• Practice posing in what you’re wearing. Seriously. You could rock the cutest outfit of all time, but if the only pose you’re comfortable with involves crossing your arms and that blazer is too snug to make it work, you won’t be happy!
• Practice in the mirror! Again – I’m totally serious here! True life: if I force a smile for the camera, I literally look dead inside. But when I think about something funny and let myself laugh a little, I look like me! I would never have realized that if I hadn’t spent some time in front of the mirror figuring it out. Be a little vain! Your headshot will thank you.
• Wear what accentuates your best features, and conceal what you’re uncomfortable with. I don’t like drawing extra attention to my upper arms, so you can bet I won’t be going strapless!
• If you’re hoping to get a haircut sometime soon, aim to have it done about a week before your headshot. This gives you enough time to get used to styling your hair, and getting used to the look, and you don’t need to worry about an awkward just-cut look.

“I do not like to take photographs, but I was required to for a professional profile. She immediately put me at ease, and was an expert at choosing colors, poses, and the environment that made the pictures awesome. She is technically highly skilled but also possesses the insight and intuition of an artist- this really showed up in my pictures!”

-Julia C (May, 2015)

TIPS FOR THE LADIES

• Scoop or v-necks work best to elongate the neck.
• Simple jewelry is best. Statement necklaces or scarves only work if they aren’t too busy, and earrings work better when they aren’t competing for attention.
• Chunky fabrics can make you look heavier, but too thin fabric can show lines through it, so watch the weight of what you are wearing. Textured fabrics tend to photograph well.
• Having your makeup done professionally is highly recommended. Here is the number to my personal hair & makeup artist: Wanda Christopher: 917-783-2012
• If you’re doing your own makeup….here are a few things to think about:
  • Having false eyelashes makes a big difference. GET THEM!!
  • Don’t forget about your lips! Even if you don’t regularly wear lipstick, a neutral shade can really help your lips pop a little.
  • Make sure you contour. But don’t take this as an opportunity to copy Kim Kardashian. Keep it simple!
  • Check YouTube/Instagram/Pinterest for makeup tutorials.

TIPS FOR THE MEN

• You have it much easier than your female counterparts.
• If you’re clueless on what to wear, you can’t go wrong with a solid colored button down, rolled at the sleeves, with dark jeans or neutral colored pants.
• Facial hair is fine, but make sure to trim it nicely.
• If you typically wear undershirts, make sure they aren’t visible under your top shirt (v-necks are easier to hide).
• Have a tailored look vs something that’s baggy or relaxed. Tuck in your shirt, grab a belt, and make sure your clothing is more fitted than loose.

“My experience with Phoenix Photography by Darla was absolutely amazing. She… knows how to bring your best self forward. She takes her time and coaches you to bring out that best shot. I love her sharp eye and attention to details. I appreciated her guidance and direction in bringing out the best shots, which are first class… I must say she exceeded my expectations. She had props, pool, and a beautiful back yard with gorgeous oaks and a pond to bring out your amazing photos. You can’t go wrong with Darla. The cost is well worth it, as you will get what you pay for. I was able to change over 7 outfits within my two hour session. She took her time and didn’t rush through the process. The preview pictures that she showed me were first class even before they were sent off for editing. I absolutely love love love them and can’t wait to see the finished product. You can’t go wrong hiring her for any and all your photo shoots… Trust her experience, she will definitely have your back.”

-Bettie S (July, 2022)