Get ready for your session!

This guide covers everything you need to prepare for your upcoming session, whether you're updating your professional headshots, creating actor headshots, or building your modelling portfolio. Some recommendations apply to everyone, while others are specific to your session type. These images are created to work across your website, social media, and wherever your brand shows up.

What to wear


Choose outfits that feel authentic to you and reflect your brand style.

Stick with clean, flattering necklines, well fitted pieces, and colors that highlight your features.


London realtor Ian Pepler headshots session in Strathroy Ontario with captured by Thea photography.

Ian Pepler - London Realtor

Nurse Injector Kelly Toldnes headshots session in Strathroy Ontario with captured by Thea photography.

Kelly Toldnes - Nurse Injector

Outfit Categories


  • Professional Polished – Blazer over a blouse, simple dress, or a tailored top with structure
  • Business Casual – Knit top, tucked blouse, or a sleek tee, blazer
  • Lifestyle Relaxed – Button up shirt or casual top you’d actually wear day to day
  • Media / Speaking Look – The outfit you’d wear on stage or for a podcast headshot


Theo - New York Opera Singer

Amanda - UGC Influencer

Meg - Award Winning Hair Stylist

Wardrobe & Styling Tips:


  • Colors: Stick to branding colors, neutrals, soft earthy tones, or muted pastels—flattering shades that keep the focus on you. Light colors pop on dark backdrops; darks work best on light. Bring at least one light and one dark outfit. Pack 3–4 looks total; we’ll shoot at least 2.
  • Necklines for Headshots: Scoop, boat, V-neck, or crew that frame the face nicely. Skip turtlenecks, big collars, or thin straps unless layered.
  • Bottoms (Yes, They Might Show!): If we shoot 1/2 or 3/4 body, your pants will make an appearance.
  • Fit Matters: Choose clothing that fits and moves well.
  • Fabrics: Soft, luxe materials like cotton, linen, satin, cashmere, or silk blends photograph beautifully.
  • Wrinkle Free: Steam or iron everything—wrinkles always show on camera.
  • Jewelry: Keep it simple and intentional. *No Apple watches please, these date the photos very quick*
  • Nails: For full body shots your hands may show. Keep nails neat; soft polish shades (blush, pale pink, clear) are timeless.

Need Outfit Inspo?


I’ve created a Pinterest board HERE to help you visualize styles, outfits, and energy.


Actor Headshots & Model Digitals


Actor Headshots

For actor headshots, I recommend bringing a few versatile wardrobe options that allow us to create different looks and showcase your personality and casting range.

Consider bringing:

  • Fitted T-shirts or simple tops in flattering colours
  • Button up shirts, either worn alone or layered
  • Denim or leather jackets for added texture and personality
  • A mix of casual and slightly more polished options

Layering pieces are especially helpful because we can quickly change the overall feel of an image without needing a complete outfit change. Avoid distracting logos, busy patterns, or anything that takes attention away from your face and expression.


Model Digitals

If we're updating your model digitals for agency submissions, the goal is to keep everything clean, simple, and natural so agencies can see you clearly.

I recommend:

  • A fitted white or black T-shirt or tank top
  • Light to medium wash jeans with a flattering, simple fit
  • Minimal accessories and natural makeup
  • Clean, simple hair styling

If your agency has provided specific wardrobe or submission requirements, please share those with me ahead of your session so we can plan accordingly.



Shopping Suggestions


Dynamite (Casual, and business wear)

RW&Co (Blouses, shirts, dress pants)

Aritzia (Always a win for any neutral clothing, Blazers are stunning)

First & Third (Local London Fav)


Quick Reminders


  • Get a good night’s sleep
  • Stay hydrated - bring a bottle of water with you
  • Consider pro hair & makeup - it makes a difference and removes the stress (I can provide with a list of my preferred Artists)
  • Be yourself - people connect with authenticity, not perfection
  • Trust me - I’ll guide you every step of the way


Questions?

If you have questions about wardrobe, colours, or preparation, you’re always welcome to reach out!

Contact Thea