Branding & Headshot Style Guide

Ready for your branding session but not sure what to wear or how to prep? Here are some tips to get you started in the right direction. As always, feel free to reach out if you'd like me to help you plan further!

Let’s Talk About Your Brand Vibe

First things first: your photos should feel like YOU and align with your brand. Think about the energy you want to convey - are you approachable and warm? Bold and edgy? Polished and professional? Earthy and grounded?

Your outfits, location, and overall styling should all support that vibe. If you're not sure what that looks like, no worries - we can talk it through together.

Also consider where you’ll be using the images - social media, website, book jackets, etc. Do you need white background images for cut out backgrounds? Are horizontal more useful, or vertical?

Avoid:

• Anything with busy patterns or loud graphics - they distract from your face
• Super bright neon colors - they can cast weird reflections on your skin
• Clothing with large logos or branding (unless it's YOUR brand!)

Bring Options.

If you're doing a longer session, bring 2-3 outfit options so we can switch things up. Think about mixing casual and polished looks - maybe jeans and a blazer, then a dress or button-up for variety. Not sure what will work best? Bring a variety and I'll help you decide which looks are working that day! It's always better to have options.

Don’t forget the basics.

Bring foundational pieces like a nude bra, seamless thong, or shapewear if you typically wear them. These won't show through your clothes and help everything fit smoothly.

Ultimately…. Wear something that makes you feel CONFIDENT and like yourself. If you're uncomfortable or feel like you're playing dress-up, it'll show in the photos. The goal is for you to feel good so your real personality can shine through. If you want me to look over outfit options before the session, just send me photos! I'm here to help you feel prepared and excited for your shoot.

Wardrobe Choices

The goal is to look polished but still feel like yourself. Here's what to keep in mind:

Choose clothes that fit well.

This is the #1 rule. Clothes that are too tight, too loose, or awkwardly fitting will show up in photos. Make sure everything fits your body comfortably and flatters your shape.

Stick to a color palette.

Think about where you'll be using these images. If your brand has specific colors, incorporate those. If not, here are some safe bets:

• Neutral tones (cream, beige, gray, black, navy) are timeless and versatile
• Jewel tones (emerald, burgundy, sapphire) photograph beautifully and add richness
• Earth tones (rust, mustard, olive, terracotta) feel warm and grounded

Styling Details

Think about the little things that pull your look together.

Shoes

Yes, there’s a chance we'll be photographing your whole body, so think about footwear that complements your outfit. Clean sneakers, boots, heels - whatever feels right for your brand. Even if you’re just getting headshots, feeling good in your outfit, head to toe, makes a difference.

Accessories

Jewelry, glasses, scarves, hats - these can all add personality to your photos. Just don't go overboard. A few intentional pieces are better than looking like you raided a jewelry store.

Hair & Makeup

This is one area where it's totally worth bringing in a pro! I work with an amazing hair and makeup stylist who makes everyone look AND feel incredible. She knows exactly how to style you for photos, and trust me - you'll feel like a million bucks walking onto set. Seriously a no-brainer if you want that extra confidence boost and polish. Just let me know if you’d like to book her for your session as well!

If you're doing your own makeup: Go a little heavier than your everyday look. Photos tend to wash you out slightly, so don't be afraid to add more color to your lips and cheeks, define your eyes a bit more, and make sure your base is even.

Props & Context

Depending on what you do, you might want to bring props that represent your work:

  • Laptop or tablet if you work digitally

  • Tools of your trade (camera, paintbrush, stethoscope, etc.)

  • Products you sell or create

  • Books, coffee, anything that adds context to your brand story

Just keep it simple - we want YOU to be the focus, not a bunch of stuff.

Location

We’ll choose a location during booking, but here are some things to consider:

Studio (My Place)

Clean, timeless, versatile. Great for a classic, professional look. We have both indoor natural light and beautiful outdoor spaces.

Your Space

If you have an office, studio, or workspace that represents your brand, that can be a great option. It adds authenticity and context.

Outdoor or Urban

Nature or city settings can add personality and texture to your images. Think about what aligns with your brand - are you a "woods and fields" person or a "coffee shop and brick walls" person?

Lifestyle Settings

Coffee shops, bookstores, co-working spaces, or anywhere you actually spend time can create authentic, relatable images. These settings tell a story about how you work and live, making your brand feel more personal and approachable.

Let’s have some Fun

Here's the thing: I know being in front of a camera can feel awkward at first, especially if you're not used to it. That's totally normal! But I promise, we're going to have a good time.

I'll guide you through everything - where to stand, how to move, what to do with your hands (because let's be real, hands are always the weird part). You don't need to know how to pose or be a professional model.

You just need to show up as yourself and trust the process. We'll laugh, we'll probably make some ridiculous faces, and by the end you'll feel way more comfortable than you did at the beginning.

That's when we make the best images - when you relax and let your real personality come through.

So don't stress about this. We've got it handled. You're going to look amazing, feel confident, and walk away with photos you're actually excited to use.

If you want me to look over outfit options before the session, just send me photos! I'm here to help you feel totally prepared and ready to have fun.

xo,

Kelley