Preparing for Your Professional Headshot

A Practical Pre-Session Guide by Luminous Space

A strong professional headshot is created through collaboration.
Your preparation sets the foundation, and our photography brings it to life.

At Luminous Space, we focus on editorial lighting, natural expression, and guided posing.
With thoughtful preparation, your session will feel smooth, confident, and productive.

If you are unsure how to prepare, the following guide will help you arrive ready and relaxed.

1. One Week Before Your Session

1.1 Plan Ahead

As your session approaches, try to keep your schedule flexible on the day of the shoot.
Arriving without rushing allows you to stay present and focused, which always shows in photographs.

If you plan to have professional hair or makeup done, schedule the appointment for the same day as your session rather than the night before. Fresh styling photographs best.

1.2 Select Your Wardrobe Carefully

Wardrobe choices have a significant impact on the final result of your headshot.

Choose clothing that fits well, feels comfortable, and represents how you want to be seen professionally. Clean lines and solid colors tend to photograph best, especially in editorial-style lighting.

We recommend avoiding bold patterns, visible logos, or overly bright colors, as they can distract from your expression. Structured pieces such as blazers, jackets, or tailored tops usually work very well.

If possible, bring two or three outfit options. Different colors or styles can create noticeably different looks, and we are happy to help you decide what works best on camera.

Simple accessories, such as watches or subtle jewelry, are welcome. Keep the focus on you.

1.3 Prepare Your Hair

If you are planning a haircut, schedule it three to seven days before your session. This allows your hair to settle naturally.
For coloring or highlights, make sure you are comfortable with the result well in advance of shoot day.

2. The Day Before Your Session

2.1 Prioritize Rest

A good night’s sleep makes a visible difference in how refreshed you appear.
While professional retouching is included, rest remains the best preparation.

2.2 Review What Works for You

Take a moment to look through past photos you have liked. Pay attention to details such as angles, hairstyles, or colors that felt flattering. If you have reference images, feel free to bring them on your phone—they are always helpful.

2.3 Consider How You Feel

If you are feeling unwell or unusually stressed, rescheduling may be the right choice. Confidence and comfort matter.

That said, there is rarely a “perfect” day. Many clients arrive feeling slightly nervous and relax quickly once the session begins. Our studio environment is designed to be calm, private, and supportive, and we guide you throughout the entire process.

3. The Morning of Your Headshot

3.1 Dress With Intention

Dress for the role and image you want to project, rather than your most casual day-to-day look. Professional headshots generally benefit from polished, well-structured clothing.

If your photos are intended for a company website or corporate use, be sure to confirm any dress guidelines in advance.

3.2 Grooming and Makeup

If you normally wear makeup in professional or social settings, we recommend wearing it for your session. Keep the look natural and matte, and avoid products with heavy shine, as they reflect studio lighting.

If you have facial hair, maintain a clean and intentional style. Avoid shaving immediately before the shoot to prevent skin irritation.

4. Just Before the Session Begins

Final Check

Before stepping in front of the camera, take a moment to check small details such as flyaway hair, lint on clothing, and clean glasses.

Avoid blue-light or transition lenses whenever possible, as they tend to reflect light and are difficult to correct later.

We will always give you time to make these final adjustments before we begin.

5. During the Session

Trust the Guidance

You do not need to know how to pose or what expression to make.
Our role is to guide you through posture, angles, and expression so the images feel natural and confident.

The goal is not stiffness or perfection, but presence and authenticity.

6. Closing Thoughts

A professional headshot is often the first impression people have of you.
With the right preparation and thoughtful direction, it can feel both polished and personal.

At Luminous Space, we create editorial-style headshots designed for LinkedIn, personal branding, and professional use—images that feel current, confident, and true to you.

If you have any questions before your session, please feel free to reach out. We are always happy to help.