Your headshot is often your first impression — on LinkedIn, your company website, business cards, or marketing materials. Before anyone reads your bio, they’re already forming an opinion.

Clothing plays a bigger role than most people realize:

• It sets the tone (corporate, approachable, creative, authoritative)

• It affects how polished and confident you appear

• It keeps the focus on you, not distractions

A great headshot isn’t about fashion — it’s about intentional choices that support your role, industry, and personal brand.

Stick With Solid Colors

Solid colors photograph cleaner and keep attention on your face. Patterns, plaids, and busy textures tend to distract and date images quickly.

Neutrals + Purposeful Color Always Win

Some reliable options for business headshots in Manhattan KS:

• Navy

• Charcoal

• Soft gray

• Cream or ivory

• Black (when styled correctly)

Want to add personality? Color is welcome — just be intentional.

And yes… K-State purple can look fantastic when done right. And man do people  look great in K-State purple — especially when it’s a deeper tone paired with clean lines.

Avoid These Colors

• Neon or overly bright shades

• Busy prints

• Large logos or branding

• Shiny or reflective fabrics

Dress for Your Industry (Not Just the Camera)

What you wear should align with how clients, colleagues, or employers expect to see you.

Corporate & Professional Fields

(Law, finance, healthcare, administration)

• Blazers, structured jackets

• Clean button-downs or blouses

• Simple jewelry

• Neutral or classic colors

Business Owners & Creatives

(Entrepreneurs, coaches, designers)

• Elevated casual pieces

• Layers that photograph well

• Colors that reflect your brand

• A polished but approachable look

Trades & Hands-On Professions

Yes — even a construction hard hat for an upcoming job can make sense when it’s intentional and aligned with your role. The key is that it looks clean, purposeful, and professional.

Fit Matters More Than Brand Names

The most expensive outfit won’t photograph well if it doesn’t fit properly.

Before your session:

• Try everything on a few days ahead

• Check shoulder seams and sleeve length

• Make sure buttons don’t pull

• Ensure tops aren’t too tight or too loose

A well-fitted, simple outfit will always outperform trendy or oversized clothing.

Necklines, Layers, and Sleeves: What Works Best

Best Necklines for Headshots

• V-necks

• Soft scoop necks

• Collared shirts

• Structured blouses

These create flattering lines and avoid crowding the face.

Sleeves Are Your Friend

Sleeveless tops can draw attention away from your face. If you love a sleeveless piece, add a blazer, jacket, or cardigan.

Layers also:

• Add dimension

• Help define your shape

• Create a polished, professional finish

Grooming Tips That Make a Big Difference

Clothing sets the foundation — grooming completes the look.

Hair

• Keep it natural and familiar

• Avoid trying a brand-new style the day of

• Bring a brush or comb for touch-ups

Makeup

• Clean, polished, and slightly more defined than everyday wear

• Avoid heavy shimmer

• Matte finishes photograph beautifully

Accessories

• Keep jewelry minimal

• Avoid noisy or oversized pieces

• Glasses are welcome — clean lenses are a must

Bring Options (We’ll Help You Choose)

One of the best ways to feel confident is to bring 2–3 outfit options. During your session, we’ll help you choose what photographs best and aligns with your goals.

This is especially helpful if you need:

• One look for LinkedIn

• One for your website

• One for marketing materials

Many professionals love having variety without the stress of deciding alone.