You’ve booked your session with Kia & Co for your headshot session…congratulations! Now is the time to start preparing for your headshot session so that you’re the best version of yourself–after all, you want to look and feel as confident as possible.

The importance of a high quality headshot

Whether you’re using these headshots on your website, LinkedIn, social media posts, or digital & print marketing, it’s crucial to have a consistent and high-quality images that set you apart from the competition. That’s where Kia & Co. comes in. We are dedicated to creating visually stunning and authentic photographs that will leave a memorable mark on your audience.

Preparing the clothing for your headshot session

DRESS IN SOMETHING YOU FEEL COMFORTABLE AND CONFIDENT IN: This is a huge one…if you don’t feel comfortable you definitely won’t look comfortable. If you feel like your top is pulling in the wrong place or the zipper is digging into your skin it’ll show in your images…at the very least you’ll always remember when you look at the image of yourself that you hated that darn dress. Make sure you select an outfit that you feel confident in!

MAKE SURE IT FITS: This is tagging off the last point, make sure you’re comfortable in your outfit and make sure it’s the correct size for your body. If your dress is too tight, you’ll be pulling at it, trying to situate it correctly on your body during your entire session. Many times, something that is too tight can make you look bigger than you actually are… but the same is also true for something that is too big. If the shirt or dress has no structure to it, many times it can swallow you and make you look larger. Make sure your outfit fits, has structure, and is flattering to your body type. has no structure to it, many times it can swallow you and make you look larger. Make sure your outfit fits, has structure, and is flattering to your body type.

BUILDING AN OUTFIT: Clothing is a form of expression and the clothes that you pick to wear will reflect your personality and should give some context to what you do in your images. My best piece of advice when choosing clothes is the simpler the better.

• Solid colors look great in headshots.
• If going with a pattern keep it simple.
• Start with a simple shirt or blouse and slowly add layers.
• Make sure that ALL clothes are ironed and pressed before the shoot. Wrinkles in clothes are difficult to Photoshop out. Don’t expect the photographer to do this.
• Bring a lint brush or roller with you.
• Don’t worry about shoes if just shooting headshots. Be comfortable.

Hair and Makeup for your headshot session

Professional hair and makeup is on the top of most of our clients’ checklists when preparing for their headshot session because it looks amazing on camera and removes the stress of getting ready on your own. This is the time to treat yourself! Whether it’s lash extensions or blown-out hair, professional hair and makeup will give you an extra boost of confidence in front of the camera, and it always photographs like a dream.

Our two tips for makeup:

APPLY IN NATURAL LIGHT
If you’re working with a makeup artist, have her apply your makeup in natural light, if possible, so that it looks fresh and not too heavy.

FEEL LIKE IT’S TOO MUCH?
Most of our clients feel like their professional makeup is “too much” at first, since it’s more than you would wear on a normal day, or that they’re false lashes look too big, so if you feel that way at the beginning, don’t worry! Good makeup artists know how to get it all just right for the camera — and our clients always love the final result. If you need a few suggestions for a hair and makeup artist, please let me know!

During your session

DIRECTIONS: Follow the my directions, even if it sounds a little silly. I don’t ever expect you to be a model, you’re a business person, after all! I know the best posing on headshots and the best way to shape your face. You may feel a little funny posing differently, but trust me the photos will look great.

RELAX: Relax a little. Headshot sessions should be fun. Don’t be afraid to let your guard down.

GIGGLE: During our time together I’ll ask you to giggle or laugh out loud (I promise to giggle with you!). I’m trying to get a natural smile on your face by making your muscles relax.