I've photographed hundreds of professionals in Ventura County. And I can tell you — the wardrobe mistakes I see show up on camera every single time.
Some people spend weeks thinking about their headshot session and then walk in wearing something that works against them. Not because they don't care. Because nobody told them.
So here it is. The full list of what not to wear — and why.
1. Busy Patterns and Tight Stripes
This is the most common mistake. Plaids, small checks, thin stripes, and busy prints create visual noise that pulls attention away from your face. On camera, tight patterns can also create a moiré effect — a shimmering, distracting distortion that looks terrible and can't be fixed in editing.
Your face is the subject. Your outfit is the supporting cast. Busy patterns try to steal the show.
Wear instead: Solid colors. Navy, charcoal, burgundy, deep green, or any rich, saturated tone that complements your skin.
2. Bright White
White sounds safe. It's not. On camera, bright white reflects light, blows out detail, and can create harsh contrast against your skin — especially on lighter-toned backgrounds. It also draws the eye to your chest instead of your face.
Cream or ivory can work on dark backgrounds. Pure white rarely does.
Wear instead: Light gray, soft blue, or pastel tones if you want something lighter.
3. Neon and Oversaturated Colors
Neon pink, electric blue, fluorescent yellow — these colors reflect onto your skin and create color casts that are difficult to correct in post. You might end up with a pink or green tint on the side of your face closest to the fabric.
Wear instead: Deep, muted versions of your favorite colors. Rich jewel tones photograph beautifully.
4. Logos and Text
A logo on your shirt is a distraction. It gives the viewer something to read instead of someone to connect with. It also dates your photo — that company logo from a conference five years ago is going to look strange on your LinkedIn profile in 2028.
This includes brand logos, sports teams, university names, and graphic prints.
Wear instead: Clean, logo-free clothing. Let your face do the talking.
5. Wrinkled or Ill-Fitting Clothing
Camera lenses are unforgiving. Every wrinkle, pull, and gap shows up clearly on screen. A shirt that fits great in real life can look bunched or tight when you're sitting or turning slightly during a session.
Same goes for brand-new clothes you've never worn. If it's uncomfortable, it'll show in your expression. Your posture changes when you're tugging at a collar or adjusting a sleeve.
Wear instead: Steam or iron everything the night before. Bring clothes you've worn and know feel good on you.
6. Short Sleeves by Themselves
A short-sleeved shirt on its own reads as casual — which is fine for some industries, but most headshots benefit from a more polished look. Short sleeves alone can also make arms look awkward in frame.
Wear instead: Layer a blazer or structured jacket over a simple top. It instantly adds polish and frames your face better in the shot.
7. Distracting Jewelry and Accessories
Large statement necklaces, dangly earrings, chunky bracelets — these draw the eye away from your face. They can also catch light in unflattering ways and create visual clutter.
This doesn't mean no jewelry. A simple necklace, small earrings, or a classic watch can look great. The rule is: one or two pieces max, and nothing that moves or catches light aggressively.
Wear instead: Minimal, classic pieces. Less is more in a headshot.
The Simple Rule for Headshot Wardrobe
If you're not sure whether something will work, ask yourself: does this outfit make my face the first thing someone looks at?
If the answer is yes, wear it. If it's no, leave it at home.
Still Not Sure What to Wear?
I send every client a free prep guide before their session — it covers wardrobe, grooming, and exactly what to expect. And when you come in, we'll look at your options together and choose what works best on camera.
That's part of what makes working with a professional different from figuring it out alone.
View session packages and pricing or get a personalized quote — sessions are available now.