What to Wear for Professional Business Headshots (LinkedIn and Corporate Guide)
LinkedIn and corporate guide from a working headshot photographer
A business headshot is a tiny piece of marketing that does a heavy job. In a split second, someone decides whether you look credible, approachable, and current.
This guide gives you clear, practical choices that photograph well and feel like you. No fuss, no fashion jargon, no “just be confident” nonsense.
The golden rule: dress like your best workday
The safest aim is simple: dress like you are heading into an important meeting, in the version of your workplace that is most “you”.
If you normally work smart-casual, dress smart-casual. If you are in law or finance and you normally wear a suit, wear the suit. Your headshot should match how you show up in real life, just on your best day.
Colours that photograph well
Colour can either support your face or fight it. Your face should win.
Best options (reliable and flattering):
Navy, charcoal, mid-grey
Mid-blue, teal, forest green
Burgundy, plum, muted pinks
Soft creams and warm neutrals (often great outdoors)
Be cautious with:
Pure white: can blow out under studio lighting and pull attention away from your eyes
Pure black: can lose detail and look flat depending on background and lighting
Neon or highly saturated colours: can reflect onto skin and become the loudest thing in the frame
If you are unsure, choose navy. It’s boring in the best way.
Patterns, logos, and what to avoid
Patterns can look great in real life, then turn chaotic on camera.
Avoid:
Tiny stripes, tight checks, herringbone (they can “shimmer” in digital photos)
Big logos, slogans, obvious branding
Busy prints, heavy contrast patterns
Shiny fabrics, sequins, glitter, metallic finishes
Choose instead:
Solids
Subtle texture (knitwear, matte fabrics, gentle weave)
If you love a patterned shirt or blouse, layer a solid blazer over it to keep the frame calm.
Outfit ideas by industry
Your outfit should signal “I belong in this room” before you even speak.
Corporate, finance, law
Aim: trusted, competent, client-ready.
Blazer or suit jacket
Crisp shirt or blouse
Tie only if it matches how you normally appear with clients
Simple jewellery, minimal accessories
Tech, startups, modern office
Aim: polished, not stiff.
Blazer with an open-collar shirt
Knitwear over a collared shirt
Plain, high-quality tee under a jacket can work if it fits your culture and role
Creative industries
Aim: personality, with restraint.
A strong colour in a solid top
Interesting texture (matte, not shiny)
One statement element max (shape, colour, or accessory) so it still feels professional
Healthcare, education, public sector
Aim: calm, approachable, trustworthy.
Softer colours (blues, greens, warm neutrals)
Clean layers (cardigan, blazer, structured top)
Avoid anything overly harsh, flashy, or too formal if it is not your day-to-day
Clothing fit and neckline tips
Fit matters more than cost. A £40 top that fits will beat a designer jacket that pulls at the shoulders.
Choose clothing that:
Sits cleanly on the shoulders
Does not gape at the chest
Does not cling or bunch around the waist
Lets you move naturally without constant adjusting
Necklines that tend to photograph well:
Crew neck, modest V-neck, open collar, scoop neck
They frame the face neatly and keep attention where it should be.
Accessories, jewellery, and glasses
Accessories should support the image, not compete with it.
Keep jewellery small and classic
Avoid highly reflective or oversized pieces
If you wear glasses day-to-day, wear them for your headshot
Clean lenses properly before the shoot
If you have a second pair, bring it. Different coatings can reflect differently under lights
Grooming and finishing touches
You do not need to be “made up”. You do need to be tidy and intentional.
Hair: neat and controlled, like you on a good day at work
Skin: reduce shine on forehead and nose (blotting papers or light powder helps)
Facial hair: clean edges, consistent with your everyday look
Clothes: pressed, lint-rolled, no fluff, no pet hair, no stray threads
The camera is brutally honest. Preparation saves time and retouching.
Quick checklist before your shoot
2 to 3 outfit options, all steamed or ironed
Lint roller
Blotting papers or light powder
Simple jewellery only
Glasses cleaned, plus a spare pair if you have one
A quick phone selfie in window light to check colour and neckline
Book a business headshot session in Glasgow
If you are updating LinkedIn, stepping into a new role, refreshing your website, or simply tired of using a photo from years ago, a strong headshot is one of the highest-return upgrades you can make.