One of the most common questions we get before a headshot session is, "What should I wear?" The good news is that the answer isn't complicated. You're not trying to chase fashion trends. You're aiming to present yourself professionally, authentically and in a way that reflects your role and your personality.

Get this part right and everything else falls into place. Here's a simple guide to help you look and feel your best.

The one rule that makes everything easier

Before we get into colours and collars, here's the rule that sorts out most of your decisions: dress like the best-dressed version of yourself at work.

Not a costume. Not something brand new you've never worn. Just a polished version of what you'd genuinely wear on an important day - a big meeting, a pitch, a first day in a new role. When you look like yourself, your photo looks natural. And natural always beats stiff.

What colours work best for headshots?

Solid, muted colours almost always photograph best. Think navy, charcoal, deep green, burgundy, soft blues and classic neutrals. They look clean, they keep the focus on your face, and they suit nearly everyone.

A few pointers:

• Darker tones tend to look sharp and professional, and can be quietly slimming.

• Softer mid-tones feel more approachable. Great if your work is warm and people-facing.

• Avoid neon or very bright colours, which pull attention away from you and can cast odd tints on your skin.

• Think about contrast. On a white or light background, mid-to-dark clothing helps you stand out. On a dark background, lighter tones lift you off it.

When in doubt, go with a colour you already own and feel good in.

Should you wear patterns?

Keep patterns quiet. Small, subtle textures are fine, but busy prints can cause trouble.

Tight stripes, fine checks and herringbone can create a distracting shimmer on camera (photographers call it a moiré effect). Large, bold patterns can date quickly and steal focus from your face. If you love a bit of pattern, choose something small and understated, and let your expression be the main event.

Jackets, blazers and layers

A structured jacket or blazer is one of the easiest ways to look instantly professional. It adds shape to your shoulders, frames your face and reads as "put together" in almost any industry.

Even if your workplace is smart-casual, bringing a blazer gives you options. Shoot a few frames with it on for a formal look, then take it off for something more relaxed — two very different photos from one outfit.

Glasses, jewellery and the small details

The little things matter more than you'd think.

• Glasses: If you wear them every day, wear them in your photos so you look like yourself. Anti-glare lenses help; if you can, bring an anti-reflective pair or a spare frame.

• Jewellery: Simple and classic works best. A watch, subtle earrings or a favourite ring is lovely. Anything large or jangly can distract from your face.

• Ties and collars: Make sure collars sit flat and ties are neat. Small creases show up more than you'd expect on camera.

Hair, makeup and grooming

You don't need a full glam session — just a tidy, "good day" version of yourself.

• Hair: Style it the way you normally wear it, freshly washed and neat. If you're due for a trim, book it a few days before, not the day of.

• Makeup: Natural and matte tends to photograph best. Studio lighting can make shiny skin more obvious, so a little powder helps. If you'd wear makeup to an important meeting, wear a similar amount.

• Beard and grooming: Trim and shape your beard, or have a clean shave — whichever is your usual look. Tidy edges make a real difference up close.

Do you need more than one outfit?

If you can, bring two or three. It gives you range and takes the pressure off getting one "perfect" outfit.

A great combination is one formal look (jacket, collar) and one smart-casual look (a nice knit or open collar). Add a second colour and you've got variety for different platforms: a sharp shot for your website, a warmer one for LinkedIn. Multiple looks are exactly what our larger packages are built for.

Does your industry change what you wear?

A little. The core rules stay the same, but the polish shifts with the field:

• Corporate, legal and finance: Lean formal — suits, blazers, classic colours.

• Creative and tech: Smart-casual is often perfect — a clean knit, a nice shirt, relaxed but tidy.

• Trades, health and hands-on roles: Branded uniform or neat workwear can actually build trust, because it's what clients expect to see.

Dress for the people you want to work with, and you'll rarely go wrong.

The most important thing: wear what makes you feel like you

Here's the secret most people miss. The best headshots don't come from the "perfect" outfit — they come from feeling comfortable and confident in front of the camera.

If you feel good in what you're wearing, it shows in your posture, your smile and your eyes. So choose clothes that fit well, that you've worn before, and that make you feel like the professional you are. We'll guide you through the rest on the day.

Your quick what-to-wear checklist

• Solid, muted colours over busy patterns

• A jacket or blazer for instant polish

• Everyday glasses and simple jewellery

• Neat, freshly styled hair and grooming

• Two or three outfits for variety

• Clothes that fit well and feel like you

Ready for your session?

Once you've sorted your outfit, the next decision is which package works for you. Check out the headshot packages at Gotham Studios — the $99 session is a great starting point, while the $220 package gives you multiple outfit changes and looks. If you want to see how different styles come together, the portfolio gives you a realistic preview.

Still deciding? Get in touch and we'll help you plan the perfect look, then book now.

Gotham Studios Melbourne. We are your photographers.