How often should I update my headshot?
Loved your old headshot? Here's why updating it anyway creates social proof, boosts profile views, and keeps you memorable to your network.
I just updated my headshot—and honestly? It was harder than you’d think.
I loved my last one. It had served me well. But here's what I've learned photographing hundreds of professionals each year:
An updated headshot isn't just about looking current. It's about staying top of mind.
Think about it: when you update your photo, it ripples across LinkedIn, your website, your email signature. People notice. "Oh, [Your Name] updated their headshot" becomes a conversation starter. Suddenly, you're back on their radar.
It signals that you're active, evolving, invested in your professional presence. It creates a micro-moment of engagement with your network—without you having to say a word.
I watch this happen with my clients every year. They update their headshot, and suddenly:
Old connections reach back out
Their profile views spike
They feel more confident hitting "send" on that email to a prospect
People remember them when opportunities arise
Your headshot is one of the few things in your professional toolkit that works for you 24/7. When it's fresh, it works even harder.
So yes, I took my own advice. New year, new look, same commitment to helping professionals show up authentically.
When was the last time you updated yours?
What To Wear For Headshots
When it comes to professional headshots, your clothing choices can make or break your photos. After years of working with clients, one principle stands above all others: simple is better. Here's everything you need to know about dressing for a successful headshot session.
The Golden Rule: Fit is Everything
Before we dive into specific clothing recommendations, remember this: the fit of your clothing is crucial. Baggy clothing will make you appear larger than you are, while excessively tight clothing will be equally unflattering. Your clothes should fit well and make you feel confident.
What to Bring
For your headshot session, plan to bring:
2-3 professional tops or dresses that fit well
Solid colors or non-distracting patterns work best
One top that matches your eye color (this can really make your eyes pop!)
Professional jackets or blazers if that suits your brand
1-2 casual layered looks like leather jackets, mock turtlenecks, or high-quality plain t-shirts
Full outfits if you want half or full body portraits
When in doubt, wear navy. It's universally flattering and photographs beautifully.
Clothing Do's
Colors and Fabrics
Choose solid colors over patterns
Fitted and tailored clothing works best
Long sleeves often photograph better than short sleeves, as bare shoulders or partial arms can be distracting
If wearing a blazer, pair it with a simple solid color underneath (a high-quality short-sleeved tee works great)
Before You Leave Home
Try on your tops in front of a mirror with bright light to check for transparency (studio lights are powerful!)
If applicable, try on your outfit with the undergarments you'll wear during the shoot
Make sure any button-down shirts fit properly with no gaps between buttons or loose collar areas
Bring anything that makes you feel great – confidence shows in your expression and body language
What to Avoid
Colors
White or off-white can wash you out
Pastels tend to wash out under studio lighting
Patterns, plaids, or stripes create visual distractions
Fabrics and Styles
Shiny fabrics like satin (they reflect light poorly)
Linen (wrinkles will be very visible)
Bulky sweaters
Loose or baggy short-sleeved tops
Jackets that are too small and can't be buttoned comfortably
Stained or wrinkled clothing (excessive retouching may incur additional charges)
Accessories: Keep It Simple
Jewelry
Keep jewelry minimal and non-distracting. Small, simple earrings work well, but avoid necklaces entirely – they can draw attention away from your face.
Glasses
If you wear glasses daily, you should definitely include them in your headshot. Bring multiple pairs if you have them, so you can try different frames. Important note: glasses without non-reflective coating may create glare issues that make them impossible to photograph.
Hair and Grooming Tips
Hair
Style your hair the way you normally wear it – you want to look like yourself
Adding some wave or curl typically photographs beautifully
Avoid getting a haircut within three days of your session (most cuts look better after about a week)
Bring all your styling products, including anything you use to tame flyaways
Grooming
Trim eyebrows, nose hairs, and remove facial fuzz at least 3 days before your session (to allow time for any skin reactions to heal)
Use hair products to control stray hairs
Moisturize your face and lips starting a few days before if this isn't part of your regular routine
Consider exfoliating 48 hours in advance or having a facial a week before
Makeup Guidance
If you wear makeup, aim for a light, natural look:
Do:
Ensure your foundation is properly color-matched to your neck (mismatched tones will be very noticeable under studio lights)
Use oil-free moisturizer and eye cream before your session
Keep mascara natural-looking, not clumpy
Consider hiring a professional makeup artist for the best results
Avoid:
Fake eyelashes
Sunscreen on the day of the shoot (especially ones with white residue)
Too much face powder over foundation (it will show in digital photography)
Sun exposure 3-4 days before your session
Very dry or cracked lips
Don't worry about small blemishes – they're easily retouched.
Final Thoughts
The key to great headshot clothing is choosing pieces that fit well, photograph cleanly, and most importantly, make you feel like your best self. When you feel confident in what you're wearing, it shows in your expression and body language – and that's what makes a truly great headshot.
Remember: these are guidelines, not rigid rules. Your headshot should reflect who you are professionally, so wear what makes you feel powerful, confident, and authentic.
AI Headshots vs. Professional Photography: What Your Personal Brand Is Really Saying
I get it. AI headshots are tempting. Thirty dollars, a hundred variations, and suddenly you're thinner, younger, and inexplicably aboard a yacht you don't own. It's entertainment—like those videos of photographers "racing" F1 cars or cats doing the merengue. (Baby Judge Judy, though? That one's actually genius.)
But here's what an AI headshot actually communicates: I took the shortcut.
And in a world where everyone's taking shortcuts, that's precisely the problem.
When you use a professional portrait, you're saying:
I invested in how I'm perceived because I know perception drives opportunity.
I understand that trust is built on authenticity, not approximation.
My business, my reputation, my career—these things warrant more than a $30 gamble.
I know what's stopping you. It's not the investment. It's the fear that you'll sit in front of my camera and somehow... not look like yourself. Or worse—look too much like yourself on a day when you're not feeling particularly confident.
Here's what actually happens: We talk. I learn what you need this image to do for you. We collaborate on the energy, the environment, the wardrobe. And then I spend the session making sure you feel like the most pulled-together version of yourself—because that's when the magic happens. That's when you happen.
You walk away with an image that doesn't just represent you. It elevates you.
Because your face is the first handshake. The first impression. The first reason someone decides to trust you with their business, their case, their brand.
That's not a place for an algorithm. That's a place for artistry.
Let's create something that actually reflects the caliber of work you do.
Corporate Headshot Pricing: San Francisco & East Bay Area (2025)
Bay Area Pricing by Region (2025)
What Influences Corporate Headshot Costs?
Photographer Experience
Session Structure
Express sessions (15-20 minutes): Single look, basic retouching
Standard sessions (30-45 minutes): Multiple angles, wardrobe options, professional coaching
Executive sessions (60+ minutes): Comprehensive branding portraits, multiple locations/setups
Group Bookings for Teams
Professional Services Included
Premium experiences typically include:
Making the Right Investment
Do they have a fast turnaround time?
Team Headshot Solutions
For companies needing 10-15+ headshots, look for photographers who offer:
Experienced photographers can work quickly and producing high-end results when working with a large quantity of headshots in a single day. Efficient scheduling (typically 5-10 minutes per person)
Diwali Portraits
I absolutely loved photographing Sonia for her Diwali portraits. She arrived in the most beautiful sari—every detail was just stunning. The colors, the elegance, the way she carried herself—it all reflected the joy and meaning of the season.
There’s something magical about capturing someone who feels completely themselves. This session was more than just portraits—it was a celebration of light, culture, and confidence.
Wishing you all a bright and beautiful Diwali filled with love, laughter, and new beginnings. 🪔
