What to Wear for Your Photoshoot: Choosing Backdrops, Colour, and Style for Headshots & Branding
Whether you’re a founder, entrepreneur, or creative professional, the way you present yourself in photos matters. A great headshot or brand portrait isn’t just about looking good — it’s about showing up confidently, communicating your values, and connecting with your audience.
Here’s how to approach your photoshoot strategically, from style to backdrop and colour.
Claire Dreyer, Confidence and Mindset Coach.
1. Dress for Your Brand & Your Personality
Your clothing isn’t just fabric — it’s part of your story. Ask yourself:
What do I want people to feel when they see my photo?
Does this outfit reflect my professional values?
Is it authentic to who I am?
For example, a modern, casual power look could be black leather trousers, a blazer, and a statement necklace. This outfit signals confidence, creativity, and approachability. Pair it with a white tee to keep it fresh and relatable.
Tip: Avoid trends that don’t feel like you. Authenticity is always more compelling than trying to fit a generic “professional” mold.
2. Understand Your Colour Palette
Many people don’t realise how colour can enhance their presence in photos — and your personal colour palette matters more than you think.
Warm skin tones: Look amazing with earthy shades, golds, peaches, and warm neutrals.
Cool skin tones: Shine in blues, purples, pinks, and silvers.
Neutrals: Black, white, and grey work well but can be elevated with accessories or layers.
Your colour choices should also align with your brand. If your business feels approachable and friendly, warmer tones work. If it’s sleek and professional, darker shades with clean lines might be best.
Pro Tip: You don’t need to follow a strict colour chart — just understand what naturally enhances your skin tone and energy.
3. Choose a Backdrop That Complements You
The backdrop isn’t just decoration — it sets the mood. Consider:
Warm backdrops: great for warm skin tones, casual and approachable brands.
Cool backdrops: ideal for tech, finance, or modern minimalist brands.
Textured vs plain: Textured walls, fabric drapes, or natural settings can add personality without distracting from you.
In your shoot, aim for contrast that highlights you without clashing with your outfit or skin tone.
4. Consider Seasons & Context
Your clothing choices should also reflect the time of year. Seasonal dressing affects not only comfort but also style perception:
Spring/Summer: Lighter fabrics, soft layers, brighter or pastel tones.
Autumn/Winter: Richer textures, layering, and deeper colours.
Seasonal choices can subtly influence how your audience perceives your energy — and help you feel confident in your shoot.
5. Align Style With Your Brand Values
A photoshoot is your chance to communicate who you are as a business. Think beyond clothes:
Statement accessories (like necklaces or scarves) can highlight creativity.
Structured jackets convey authority and professionalism.
Soft fabrics and flowy silhouettes convey approachability.
Every visual decision should reinforce your brand story.
6. Why Investing in Photography Matters
Great photography is more than vanity — it’s a business tool. It:
Boosts confidence and self-esteem, making you feel empowered to show up online.
Positions you as professional, trustworthy, and capable.
Motivates you to share content consistently, which drives sales and engagement.
When you see yourself authentically represented in photos, it fuels your ambition — and your audience notices.
7. Final Tips for Your Photoshoot
Stick to 2–3 outfits that reflect your brand and personality.
Consider layers and textures to add depth to your images.
Bring a signature accessory for personality.
Communicate with your photographer about your brand values, goals, and style.
Remember: Your photos are an investment in your business and yourself. Showing up confidently in your images translates to showing up confidently in your business.
