How to Prepare for Your Headshot Session (What to Wear, Bring, and Expect)

If you’ve booked a professional headshot in Denver, preparation can make all the difference. Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn photo, refreshing your website, or getting new images for your business, a little planning helps you look confident, relaxed, and polished on camera.

As a Denver headshot photographer, I’ve guided hundreds of clients through their sessions — here’s exactly what to wear, bring, and expect so you feel completely prepared.

Professional headshot in Denver by Draper Studios — natural light portrait.

1. What to Wear for Headshots

Your clothing plays a big role in how your professional image comes across.

  • Stick to solid colors. Patterns, stripes, or logos can distract from your face.

  • Choose tones that flatter your skin and eyes. Neutrals, soft blues, greens, and muted jewel tones work best for headshots.

  • Bring multiple options. Two to three outfits give us flexibility for different backgrounds and lighting styles.

  • Layers add polish. A blazer, jacket, or cardigan adds structure and dimension to your look.

  • Pay attention to fit. Tailored clothing always photographs better than loose or wrinkled pieces.

Tip: When in doubt, bring more than you think you’ll need. During your session, we can choose what photographs best under the lights.

woman headshot at Washington park

What to wear for professional headshots in Denver — women’s style example.

2. Grooming and Styling Tips

Professional headshots capture subtle details — and small touches make a big difference.

  • Hair: Style it how you normally wear it on your best day. Avoid last-minute changes or drastic cuts.

  • Makeup: Keep it clean and natural. Matte finishes reduce shine under professional lighting.

  • Men: A clean shave or neatly trimmed beard looks best in photos.

  • Glasses: Clean your lenses and bring a lens cloth (reflections can happen with studio lighting).

If you’re working with a hair and makeup artist in Denver, schedule them so you can arrive camera-ready.

3. What to Bring to Your Denver Headshot Session

  • Extra outfit options (tops, jackets, accessories).

  • Hairbrush, powder, lint roller, and water.

  • Comfortable shoes if your session includes walking between outdoor locations.

4. What to Expect During Your Session

My process is relaxed and guided — no need to know how to pose. I’ll direct you through subtle movements and expressions that bring out your best.
We’ll review images along the way so you can see what’s working and make adjustments in real time.
Expect to feel more confident and comfortable as we go — most people leave saying, “That was actually fun.”

Downtown Denver makes the perfect backdrop for modern, approachable headshots that feel real and confident.

5. After the Shoot

Within a few days, you’ll receive a proof gallery to select your favorites for retouching. From there, I’ll finalize the edits and deliver high-resolution files ready for LinkedIn, websites, press, or print.

Final Thoughts

A successful headshot session in Denver is about preparation and trust. When you arrive feeling ready and confident, it shows in every image.

If you’d like to book your own session or learn more about professional headshots in Denver, you can do so here:
👉 [Book Your Denver Headshot Session →]

Matt Draper

Denver-based Headshot and Corporate event photographer offering magazine-quality images that help entrepreneurs, professionals, and creatives stand out. With a background in Hollywood working alongside top actors and performers, I bring a unique vision to every shoot, creating compelling visuals for websites, social media, and beyond.

https://www.draperstudios.com
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