Brighton Branding Photography
What do I Wear For My Branding Photoshoot.
What to Wear (and What to Bring) to Your Photoshoot.
The truth is, what you wear matters, but not in the way you might think.
Your headshot isn’t about the clothes. It’s about you. The right outfit simply supports your presence. It shouldn’t distract, overpower, or date the image. Clean, honest portraits should still feel relevant years from now.
Here’s how to choose clothing that helps you look confident, natural and completely yourself.
Start With Who You Are (and Who It’s For)
Before you open your wardrobe, ask:
- Is this for corporate use?
- Acting?
- Personal branding?
- Creative/editorial work?
Your clothes should align with your industry while still feeling authentic. If you’re updating LinkedIn, company profiles or your website, aim for polished but approachable. If you’re an actor, bring range. If you’re building a personal brand, think about how you want people to feel when they see your image.
Keep It Simple (Timeless Beats Trendy)
Trends date quickly. Strong headshots shouldn’t.
Think:
- Block colours
- Neutral tones (navy, charcoal, cream, olive, soft blues)
- Simple textures
- Well fitted clothing
What to avoid:
- Loud patterns
- Large logos
- Very thin stripes
- Trend led pieces you might regret in a year
Fit Is Everything
Even the most expensive jacket won’t photograph well if it doesn’t fit properly.
- Jackets should sit cleanly on the shoulders
- Shirts shouldn’t gape or pull
- Sleeves should finish neatly at the wrist
- Avoid anything overly baggy or skin tight
Bring pieces that make you feel comfortable and confident. That confidence shows far more than labels.
Bring Options (Even If You Think You Won’t Need Them)
I always suggest bringing a small selection:
-
- 2 to 3 tops or shirts
- A jacket or blazer
- A more relaxed option
- Something slightly smarter
Layers are particularly useful, they give us variety without a full change. A simple t-shirt plus jacket can instantly create two distinct looks.
Think About Colour and Skin Tone
Certain colours lift your complexion; others drain it.
As a general guide:
- Mid tones photograph beautifully
- Very bright colours can dominate
- Pure black can sometimes lose detail
- Pure white can overpower skin tones
If you’re unsure, bring it along. We can decide together under studio lighting.
Accessories: Less Is More
Keep jewellery subtle unless it’s part of your brand.
- Avoid large statement pieces unless intentional
- Remove fitness trackers and bulky watches
- Check glasses are clean and non reflective
We want the focus on your eyes and expression.
Grooming Matters (But Keep It Natural)
- Lightly iron or steam clothing
- Bring a comb or brush
- Bring basic makeup for touch-ups if you wear it
- Bring oil blotting sheets if you’re prone to shine
Natural, polished, not overdone.
The Most Important Thing You Can Wear....Confidence
Not forced confidence, but comfort. When you feel at ease in what you’re wearing, it changes your posture, your expression, the way you hold yourself.
That’s what makes a strong portrait.
If you’re unsure about anything before your session, feel free to send over a photo of the options you’re considering. I’m always happy to guide you.
The goal isn’t to create something trendy. It’s to create something that still feels like you in five years’ time.
Brighton Headshot Photographer
Mark Turrell is a Photographer based in Brighton.
Contact
+44 (0)7798 772 886
mark@mjtphotograph.com
Find
Portland Place, Kemp Town, Brighton.