How to Prep for Your Photoshoot
My Secret Proven Formula for Headshots That Stand Out
Author: Danny from @ThatTorontoStudio, Friday February 14, 2025.
Most headshots blend in; if you’re reading this article, by now you probably agree that our photos stand out. We’ve developed a secret photographic sauce, if you will. A unique monochromatic formula that makes my clients’ photos pop off the screen, whether it’s LinkedIn, a dating app, or social media.
Shooting with us can be about more than just taking another headshot. If you’re going to get new photos done, why not spend just a little extra time and effort, and do it right. Shooting new, QUALITY photos is about creating photographs that get noticed, remembered, and clicked. Otherwise, really.. what’s the point?
Studies show that distinct visuals are more memorable, and that’s exactly what we’re going for. So let’s get started with a few tips on how to make sure your next photoshoot, is your best photoshoot.
What NOT to Wear
If you want your headshot to make an impact, avoid anything that draws attention away from your face.
❌ Super bright or neon colours that wash you out
❌ Checkered, striped, or polka-dot shirts
❌ Ripped, stained, or otherwise old-looking clothing
If your goal is to showcase a bold outfit, book a portrait session instead—where clothing plays a bigger role in the aesthetic. Headshots typically are more about eliminating distractions and bringing the attention to your face.
What SHOULD You Bring to Your Shoot?
Your outfit depends on your personal brand and the impression you want to leave. Whatever colours you decide to bring, we’ll typically match the background to be either the same colour, similar, or a complementary colour, depending on how everything looks.
For LinkedIn & Corporate Headshots:
✔ Clean, minimalistic, professional clothing
✔ Well-fitted pieces with minimal distractions
✔ Multiple outfit options to test different looks
✔ Coordinate with me to match the background
✔ If you want to play it safe: Blues, greys, tans, and neutrals for a polished look.
✔ If you want to get creative, bring bright & vivid colours that look good on you. Oh, and matching your outfit to your skin tone is a HUGE YES, if you can. I always suggest bringing 2 safe outfits, and 1 vibrant coloured outfit. Again, keeping the colour consistent, not mixing in other colours or patterns.
For Dating Profile Headshots:
✔ Colours that evoke emotion (deep reds, rich earth tones)
✔ A mix of casual and dressy for different styles
For Standing Out on Social Media:
✔ A bold, unified color
✔ A pop of color that sets you apart
✔ What others in your industry wear—but better
📖 Studies show that visually distinct images get more attention and are easier to remember—I don’t know about you, but I like being top of mind when someone is talking about an opportunity, and they don’t know to whom to reach out to make it happen.
🔗 Source: Von Restorff, H. (1933). The Isolation Effect. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1933-05001-001
So, now that we’ve gone over the basics, here’s my proven 5 step formula to make sure your next shoot, is your best shoot!
My Unique 5-Step Formula for a Standout Headshot
✔ Step 1: Choose a Unified Color
A monochromatic outfit makes you stand out. Stick to a single color, and let lighting, fit, and textures add dimension.
✔ Step 2: Wear Different Shades of That Color
Mixing tones and textures keeps your look dynamic while maintaining a clean, cohesive effect.
📖 Studies show that simple, high-contrast visuals improve engagement.
🔗 Source: Harvard Business Review (2018). Simplicity in Visual Design and Consumer Decision Making. https://hbr.org/2018/01/the-role-of-simplicity-in-consumer-decision-making
✔ Step 3: Wear Fitted Clothing
A tailored outfit defines your silhouette, making the photo sharper and more visually appealing.
📖 Studies show that the brain processes shape before detail—so your silhouette matters.
🔗 Source: Palmer, S. (1999). Gestalt Psychology and Visual Perception. https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262161831/vision-science
✔ Step 4: Keep Grooming Simple
Your face is the focus. Keep hair, makeup, and accessories minimal so nothing competes with your expression.
📖 Studies confirm that reducing visual clutter makes subjects stand out more.
🔗 Source: Von Restorff, H. (1933). The Isolation Effect. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1933-05001-001
✔ Step 5: Match the Background to Your Outfit - We’ll Handle THAT!
A background that blends seamlessly with your clothing enhances the monochrome effect, making the final image look intentional and polished. So make sure to send us a WhatsApp with what colours you’ll be wearing.
📖 Studies show that visual consistency strengthens branding and recognition.
🔗 Source: Harvard Business Review (2018). Simplicity in Visual Design and Consumer Decision Making. https://hbr.org/2018/01/the-role-of-simplicity-in-consumer-decision-making
Final Prep: The Day Before Your Session
✔ Get Some Sleep – Tired eyes are impossible to edit.
✔ Stay Hydrated – Dry skin and dehydration show in photos.
✔ Wash and Moisturize Your Face – Fresh skin = better lighting results.
✔ Pack Face Wipes & Powder – Great for last-minute shine control.
✔ Bring Multiple Outfits – We’ll pick the best one in-studio.
✔ Be On Time – Rushing = stress, and stress shows on camera.
Bonus: Mindset Matters
The best headshots come from confidence and ease. Clients who show up relaxed, prepared, and positive always get the strongest results.
If you want a headshot that demands attention, follow this guide and let’s create something that makes people stop scrolling.
We hope you enjoyed this guide. If you want to better understand our offerings, feel free to check out our portfolio gallery, as well as the different pricing & packages offered.
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