Good morning, Virginia Beach!
Your headshot is often the very first impression you make — on LinkedIn, your company website, or anywhere your brand shows up. That’s why dressing with confidence and intention matters. Sami Roy Photography is helping local professionals elevate their personal brand through headshots that not only look great, but feel authentic. Whether you’re in finance, healthcare, or the creative world, the right colors, outfits, and finishing touches can make all the difference.
In today’s edition:
📸 How to choose the right colors for your headshot
📸 Dressing with confidence for your industry
📸 Final tips to look and feel your best in front of the camera
Look sharp, Virginia Beach — let’s dive in!
—Kim
Thank you to TeamUp for sponsoring this week’s newsletter
📸 What to Wear for a Headshot That Makes an Impact
by Sami Roy Photography
Your headshot is often your first impression—whether on LinkedIn, your company website, or marketing materials. Dressing appropriately for your industry and personal brand is essential to projecting confidence, credibility, and approachability. As a professional headshot photographer at Sami Roy Photography, I’ve helped countless professionals create impactful images that elevate their brands. But while there are general guidelines for dressing for your session, sometimes the best choice is breaking the rules to fit your unique personal brand.
Choosing the Right Colors
Color plays a crucial role in how others perceive you. Solid colors are always a safe bet, as busy patterns or logos can be distracting. Neutral shades like black, gray, navy, white, and beige are timeless and professional, making them great choices for corporate professionals in industries like finance, law, and consulting. Blues and greens create a trustworthy and calming presence, which works well for those in healthcare, education, and customer-facing roles.
If you want to appear warm and inviting, earth tones such as brown, rust, olive, or mustard are excellent options, particularly for creatives, coaches, and entrepreneurs. Bright colors like red, yellow, and bold blue can exude confidence and energy, but they should be used in moderation. A subtle pop of color in a tie, blouse, or accessory can make a statement without being overwhelming.
Avoid neon colors and stark white, as they can reflect light in an unflattering way. Jewel tones, on the other hand, are universally flattering and add richness to your look. That said, if neon colors or bold patterns are part of your brand, embrace them! Your headshot should reflect who you are, not just follow a formula.
Dressing for Your Industry
Your outfit should be well-fitted, enhance your features, and align with your industry. If you’re in a corporate setting—an executive, lawyer, or financial expert—a structured blazer, tailored suit, or button-down shirt in classic colors is always a good choice. A well-fitted suit commands respect, while women can keep jewelry and makeup simple for a polished appearance.
Creative professionals have more flexibility when it comes to style. Layered outfits, textured fabrics, and casual blazers paired with turtlenecks or fitted tees can create an authentic yet refined look. Entrepreneurs and coaches need to strike a balance between approachable and professional. A stylish blouse, soft blazer, or fitted sweater can project authority without being too rigid. For men, an open-collar dress shirt instead of a full suit can work well.
If you’re in the healthcare or wellness field, a clean, polished look is key. Soft blues, greens, or even a white coat over professional attire can help build an image of trustworthiness. For those in tech or startups, smart casual is often the standard. A sleek polo or simple top with a fitted blazer keeps things modern and professional without feeling overly formal.
Of course, if your brand defies industry expectations—say, you’re an unconventional entrepreneur or a bold creative—then your wardrobe should reflect that. The key is being intentional with your choices.
Finishing Touches: Accessories & Grooming
When it comes to accessories, less is more. Simple jewelry, a clean watch, and subtle details keep the focus on your face. If you wear glasses, make sure they have an anti-reflective coating to prevent glare. Grooming is just as important as your outfit—keep hair neatly styled, facial hair trimmed, and makeup natural to enhance your features rather than overpower them.
Final Tips for a Strong Headshot
Confidence is key. If you feel good in your outfit, it will show in your photo. Choose something that represents your industry but also reflects your personality. Bringing an extra outfit to your session gives you more variety and ensures you have the perfect look.
At Sami Roy Photography, I specialize in helping professionals create headshots that truly represent who they are. We’ll work together to find the perfect look—whether that means sticking to classic professional styles or breaking the rules to embrace what makes you unique. A well-thought-out headshot can make a lasting impression, so let’s make sure you look your absolute best!
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