Brighten your mood

You will get the best headshot when your mood is bright. Things you might want to do: control stress levels, eat healthy food, sleep for 7 hours, go for a long walk or bicycle ride, especially right after you wake up, and generally be physically active. If these things don't fit in your schedule, don't be discouraged, but just start trying a bit.

A bit of exercise on the day of shooting may improve your skin tone, especially if you are very pale, but as a general rule, keep the physical exercise to a low level on the day of the shoot.

Get your hair done

Some professional makeup artists are also hair stylists, and they can perform basic hair styling. Alternatively, if you have a salon that you are happy with, you might prefer have your hair (and perhaps makeup) done earlier on the day of your photo session. If your schedule is too hectic, or trying a new salon, it may be wiser to get your hair done a day or two earlier and style your hair just before the shoot.

Shaving (men)

Shave a few hours before the headshot session. Allow plenty of time for your skin to recover if it is easily irritated. Good shaving foam is very useful in minimizing the irritation, but don't use a new product for the first time on the day of the shoot. Start using any new product a week before the session.

Things to bring

Your makeup kit (if you are not hiring a professional makeup artist):

  • concealer/ foundation
  • powder
  • blush
  • eyeliner
  • mascara
  • lipstick
  • lipgloss

Also, check out this article on makeup tips if you haven't. Is this too much to worry about? You can hire a professional make up artist for best results (a separate fee of $100-150 for a headshot session).

Other things to consider:

  • iPod (with your favorite music!)
  • eye drop
  • hair spray, gel, etc.
  • hair brush, comb
  • eyeglasses

If you wear eyeglasses and want to try to shoot with and without glasses, the best way is to shoot with glasses at the end of the session. Wear contact lenses and bring glasses if you can.

Hair spray, gel, brush, comb, eye drops (in single use packages) are standard stock items at Beaupix Studio, but you are encouraged to bring yours that you know works well for you.