How to Prepare for Your Headshot.
Essential Tips from a Top Austin Headshot Photographer
Written by Anthony Johnson
So, you’ve already picked out what you’re going to wear. Great! (If not, read this guide on what to wear — I’ve got you covered.)
But your outfit is only half the battle.
When it comes to getting a professional headshot — one that makes you look confident, credible, and aligned with your brand — your hair, skin, and mindset matter just as much as your clothing. Whether you’re preparing for executive headshots, corporate team headshots, or a business headshot session in Austin, this guide covers everything but wardrobe — and makes sure you walk into your session looking and feeling your best.
Austin headshots Quick prep
- Haircut or trim (1–3 days before)
- Bring a brush/comb and makeup touch-up tools
- No lotion or oil base face products before
- Stayed indoors before the shoot
- Drink water the night before
- Get a good night’s sleep
- Brushed teeth
- Skip food right before
- Lips moisturized (not glossy)
- Glasses cleaned (if wearing)
- Jewelry is minimal and professional
- Facial hair groomed or shaved
- Practiced your smile
- Bring a calm, confident mindset (Don’t worry- I got you!)
1. Hair: Fresh, Brushed, and Under Control
- Get a haircut or trim 1–3 days before your session so it settles naturally.
- Bring a brush or comb to do a quick touch-up right before we shoot.
- Got flyaways? Don’t worry — see what expert retouching can do. But starting with neat hair helps us capture that perfect shot faster.
2. Skin: Clean, Dry (Not Oily), and Camera-Ready
- Avoid lotion or moisturizer on your face the day of your shoot. Even expensive brands can cause shine under professional lighting.
- Skip sunscreen and serums unless they’re truly matte.
- Stay out of the heat before your session. We love Texas — but not the sweat and shine that comes with it.
- Hydrate the night before. Water is the best skin-care product out there.
Get solid sleep. You’ll look brighter, more energized, and ready to go — exactly what a great business headshot needs.
3. Makeup: Light, Matte, and Touch-Up Ready
- Bring powder or foundation to touch up if needed.
- Avoid shimmer, dew, or glow-style products. What looks great in person might reflect too much in photos.
- Blotting sheets or tissues can save the day right before we shoot.
4. Eyewear: Yes to Glasses (If That’s You)
- If people usually see you with glasses, wear them. This photo should reflect the real you.
- Clean your lenses before your session — smudges will show.
- Worried about glare? No problem — I’ll retouch that out as part of your final image.
5. Facial Hair: Clean, Trimmed, or Intentional
- Be intentional. If you wear facial hair, give it a quick trim the morning of.
- Going clean-shaven? Shave carefully to avoid nicks, redness, or razor bumps.
6. Lips: Avoid the Crust, Not the Gloss
- Apply a matte lip balm about 30–60 minutes before your session to prevent dry, cracked lips.
- Avoid glossy lip balms right before your photo — they can reflect too much light.
- If unsure, bring it with you and blot before we shoot.
Great options:
- Burt’s Bees (Original) – matte & natural
- Aquaphor Stick – low-shine
- Jack Black Balm – use sparingly and blot
7. Jewelry: Simple, Professional, and Brand-Aligned
- This is a corporate headshot, not a fashion shoot.
- Stick to minimal, classic pieces — think small studs, thin necklaces, or subtle hoops.
- Unless bold jewelry is part of your brand, leave the statement pieces at home.
8. Hygiene: Yes, It Still Matters
- Brush your teeth before your session (coffee breath doesn’t show in photos, but confidence does).
- Skip eating right before your shoot to avoid food in your teeth or bloating.
- Check your nails — they likely won’t be visible, but clean, trimmed nails help you feel polished and put-together.
9. Mindset: This Is Your One Second
This is the most important prep tip of all.
- Center yourself. Take a breath. Go for a walk. Listen to your favorite playlist.
- Bring positive energy. Think about something that makes you smile — a memory, a win, a vacation you’re planning.
- Remember: You’re working with the best.
- I’ll walk you through everything with a calm, confident approach.
- It only takes one second to capture the perfect image — and that one second will represent you for the next 2–3 years.
🌟 BONUS CONFIDENCE TIP: Not Sure About Your Smile?
Totally normal.
Here’s a trick I always recommend:
Stand in front of a mirror and practice the smile you want to use.
Think of it like rehearsing for a keynote or pitch — the more you practice, the more natural it feels when it counts.
Your face builds muscle memory too. Practice your smile a few times in the mirror, and when the camera’s on, your body will remember exactly how to show up.
And just so you know:
I will never force a look you’re not comfortable with.
My job is to help you create a headshot you’re proud to use — one that looks like you, feels like you, and opens doors for you.
Or feel free to check out our services page.
LOOKING YOUR BEST STARTS BEFORE THE CAMERA
Thanks for reading this far—I hope these tips help you feel confident and ready for your upcoming Austin headshot session. Preparing for a great photo isn’t just about what you wear—it’s about how you show up. The way you care for your hair, skin, and overall appearance tells your story before the camera even clicks.
Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn headshot, refreshing your company’s team headshots, or booking an executive portrait, the small details—hydrated skin, neat hair, a practiced smile—set the tone for how your image is received.
As a professional Austin photographer, I work with executives, entrepreneurs, and entire teams to create business headshots that look polished and feel true to who you are.
When you book a Signature Headshot Session or a full set of corporate team headshots, we’ll collaborate to make sure your expression, presence, and preparation reflect the professional brand you want the world to see.
Still feeling unsure? Don’t worry.
I’ll guide you through every step—so you walk away with images that capture confidence, capability, and the best version of you.
Ready to Elevate Your Business Headshots?
If you’re a company or a business leader in Austin looking to upgrade your team’s visual presence — that’s exactly what I specialize in. I don’t just take photos. I create brand-ready imagery that makes people stop, look, and trust.
Let’s talk about how to bring this level of quality to your team.