Men’s Guide to Outfits for Your Portrait or Business
What Type of Outfits Should a Man Wear for a Legacy Portrait or Business Branding/Headshot Photoshoot?
Deciding what to wear for your Portrait or business branding/headshot shoot can be tricky. These shoots are a bit different from a typical photoshoot because you want them to say something about you. Whether you need a headshot for your business in Cleveland or photos with family, Capture Style can help. Casual clothing has become more prevalent since Covid hit, but you know we love classic style here at Capture Style. Let’s go over some tips on what to wear for your Legacy Portrait or business branding photoshoot.
Identify What You Want to Get Out of Your Shoot
Before we jump into clothing options, let’s identify what you want to get out of your shoot.
Portrait: These are pictures of you that typically last a lifetime. You want them to depict who you are as a person and where you are in your life. Think about your character, style, and what your life story would be if someone were getting to know you through these photos.
Business Headshot/Branding Photoshoot: You want to portray yourself in a way that emphasizes your brand. You want to portray authority and trust but also express your personality. What image do you want to portray to others in your career? Modern? Creative? Edgy? Casual?
With these thoughts in mind, let’s go over some portrait and business branding outfit options.
Things to Keep in Mind When Preparing Outfits
There are a few things to remember when getting your outfits ready for your shoot that can make or break your photos.
Comfort: If you’re not comfortable in what you’re wearing, it will show in your pictures. Wear something you feel confident in and will feel comfortable wearing in front of the camera.
Fit: Make sure your clothes fit! Clothes that are too baggy or too small look bad on camera. Ensure your clothes have a tailored fit.
Colors: Different colors can portray different emotions. Pick neutral colors for your portrait. For business branding photos, pick colors that will portray your brand.
Fabric: Different fabrics will reflect light differently. Try to avoid shiny fabrics. Matte and lightweight fabrics with some texture usually photograph the best.
Accessorize: Accessories can help elevate an outfit. Don’t go overboard though. You don’t want your accessories to be the focus of your photo. Wearing a watch or cufflinks can add a great touch to your outfit.
Outfit Ideas for a Portrait
You want your portrait to showcase your personality. Depending on your style and the vibe you want to portray, here are some options you can choose from:
a) Classic
Tailored Suit: A good-fitting suit is a timeless classic. You can go with a two or three-piece suit.
Stick with darker colors like navy, charcoal, and black.
Blazer and Dress Pants: If you want to wear a suit but don’t want to do the whole suit look, go with a blazer and dress pants. Make sure the colors don’t match exactly. Try a grey blazer with navy pants.
Button-Down Shirt (No Tie or With Tie): Wearing a plain button-down shirt is always a safe option. You can go with a tie or without a tie. If you want to look more casual and approachable go without a tie. If you want to look more professional go with a tie.
Turtlenecks or Sweaters: If you want to look more high-end and creative go with a good sweater or turtleneck. Stick with darker colors.
Add Personal Flair: Add any personal touches you want to your outfit. Whether that be a vintage watch or a hat.
b) Casual
Photo Shoot with Collared Polo Shirt: A collared polo shirt is a great way to stay casual and still look put together. Try to go with solid colors and nice fabric.
Add Layers: Adding layers to your shirt can help you add detail to your outfit. Try adding a vestor sports jacket on top of your button-down shirt.
Pair Dark Jeans with a Blazer: Another way you can avoid wearing a suit but still look classy is by wearing dark jeans with a blazer. Make sure your jeans are nice and fitted.
Outfit Ideas for Business Branding Headshots
When planning your outfits for your business branding shoot, you will want to dress based on your industry and brand. Here are some tips based on what type of professional you are.
a) Corporate
Traditional Suit and Tie: First off, if you work in corporate, you should wear a suit with a tie. Solid or lightly striped suits are always a good option. Stick with grey, black, and navy.
Business Attire, No Tie: If you work in a modern industry, you can forego the tie. Opting for an open-collar shirt and suit can help you look professional without looking stuffy.
Blazer and Chinos: Another great option for business attire is a blazer with chinos. Pairing your blazer with neutral colors such as beige, blue, and grey is best.
b) Creative/Entrepreneur/Startup
Keep it Smart Casual: If you own your business or work in a creative field, you have more flexibility with what you wear. Try wearing a button down or polo with jeans or chinos. You can always add a blazer or sport coat on top to finish the look.
Monochromatic: Wearing all black or all grey can help you achieve a modern look. It’s very minimalistic but in a good way. Try this style if you’re looking to stand out.
Statement Piece: Depending on your brand, you may want to add a statement piece such as a tie or pocket square. You can even pull off wearing sneakers if you work in an informal work setting.
Final Tips to Nail Your Photoshoot
Bring Extra Outfits: Bring at least 2-3 outfit options with you to your photoshoot. This allows your photographer to see what you look like in different outfits. You never know which one you might like best until you try them on in front of the camera.
Iron Your Clothes: This should go without saying, but make sure you iron your clothes. If your clothes are wrinkled, they will show up in your pictures.
Neutral Shoes: Wear neutral shoes that match your outfit. Don’t wear crazy patterns that distract from the overall look.
Hair: Make sure your hair is washed and styled before your photoshoot. You want to look your best!
Conclusion
Whether you are dressing for a l portrait or a business branding/headshot shoot, your outfits are essential. You want to wear something that you are comfortable in and that matches the style you are going for. Use our tips to dress to impress at your next photoshoot!
If you’re still struggling on what you should wear for your shoot, Anne, our friend and personal stylist can help you figure out some great pieces that will wow your audience. Click here to go to her website-http://annehydock.jhilburn.com/aboutme/16197
