A simple, stress-free guide to help you get in the zone!
Getting ready for your headshot session doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. In fact, with a tiny bit of prep, it can feel exciting, empowering and actually fun.
Whether you’re booking headshots in Manchester for your website, updating your LinkedIn profile, or levelling up your personal brand identity, a little planning ahead makes everything smoother on the day (and helps you love your final images even more)
As a headshot photographer who works with inspiring humans all across Manchester and Cheshire, I know exactly what helps clients feel relaxed, confident and camera-ready. So here’s your friendly guide on how to prepare for your headshot session, plus a simple checklist you can save for later.
Common Questions People Ask Before a Headshot Session (Answered!)
These are the things people are typing into Google (and asking me before shoots):
“What should I wear for my headshot?”
“Should I get my hair done?”
“Do I need to wear makeup?”
“What should I bring with me?”
“How long does a headshot session take?”
“Can you retouch my photos?”
This blog answers all of these — and helps you feel totally prepared for your exciting day shooting.
How to Prepare for Your Headshot Session
1. Choose an outfit that makes you feel good
The best headshots don’t come from fancy clothes — they come from a place of authenticity. Pick an outfit that makes you feel comfortable and confident. Something that’s really you.
A few tips for choosing an outfit for your headshots:
- Solid colours work brilliantly. Avoid dressing all in black as this can look too serious!
- Avoid small or busy patterns as these can distract from your face
- Try to match your clothing with your brand colour scheme
- Make sure your outfit fits you well
- If in doubt, choose something you would be happy wearing to meet a client
Read my full styling advice about planning an outfit here – What should I wear to my personal branding shoot?
2. Invest in some grooming (but nothing extreme!)
You absolutely don’t need a full makeover before you book your headshots. But a tiny bit of pre-shoot TLC can help you feel polished and camera-ready, giving you the inner confidence that shines though in your images.
- Hair: A well-timed haircut or fresh blow-dry ensures a good hair day for your photos.
- Make-up: Go with whatever level of make-up feels right for you. I find that the camera removes make-up, so if in doubt you can go a little heavier on the mascara and lippie.
- Beards: A tidy-up or trim works wonders for making you look polished.
- Skin: Don’t forget to moisturise! And bring a lip-balm to your shoot, especially in winter when lips can get dry.
- Nails: A quick file and tidy is plenty, or use your shoot as an excuse for a trip to the nail salon!
3. Hydrate, sleep, and avoid last-minute experiments
The classic trio of self-care!
- Drink plenty of water the night before your shoot and your skin will thank you for it
- Get a decent night’s sleep
- Avoid trying brand-new skincare or hair products right before the session
- Skip the late-night wine if you can — alcohol can make eyes puffy
What to bring to your headshot session
Here are some little things to pack for your headshot shoot that can make you feel more comfortable and confident. All are optional extras – you know what will suit you best!
- Small mirror
- Hairbrush or comb
- Lip balm
- Big coat and gloves for between shots if it’s a cold day
- Fan and water if it’s a hot day
- Make-up for touch-ups
- Powder or blotting paper for shine
Your 24-Hour Checklist: How to Prepare for Your Headshot Session
The day before the shoot:
- Try on your outfit
- Steam or iron your clothes
- Pack your bag
- Do any self-care or grooming treatments
- Drink plenty of water
- Get a good night’s sleep
- Plan your route and parking
The morning of the shoot:
- Give yourself enough time to get ready – be realistic!
- Make sure you eat a good breakfast so you feel energised
- Set off in plenty of time so you don’t arrive flustered
Just before the shoot (if you’re feeling nervous):
- Remind yourself why you’re here – you’re making a good investment in your business
- Try to slow down your breathing
- Shake the tension in your body out
- Relax and smile – I’ll do the rest!
- Most importantly, enjoy yourself and let your personality shine
Other Frequently Asked Questions about Headshots in Manchester
How long does a headshot session take?
My headshot shoots are 30 minutes long and you can read more about what’s included in my packages here. If you’d like a longer shoot, you can book a personal branding session.
Do you retouch the images?
Yes — but very gently. My editing and retouching style is natural and true-to-life, it just gives you a little help to look your best. I also remove any distractions from the background of the images.
Can we shoot outdoors in Manchester?
Absolutely. I shoot headshots all over central and South Manchester and Cheshire. I know loads of great backdrops that we can use.
Do you help with posing?
Every step of the way! You don’t need to be a model — I guide you through simple, relaxed poses that feel authentic to you.
What should I NOT do before a headshot?
Avoid new skincare treatments, heavy fake tan, big nights out or last-minute drastic grooming changes. Keep things simple and familiar so you feel like yourself.
Got another question? You’ll find more details on my headshots in Manchester page.
Ready for Headshots You Love?
If you’re ready for fresh, personality-filled images that help you make a stand-out first impression, I’d love to work with you.
Whether you’re after classic headshots in Manchester, natural lifestyle portraits or relaxed personal branding images, your session will be warm, friendly and absolutely tailored to you.
Want to book your headshot session? Drop me a message and let’s plan something you’re excited about. I can help you prepare for your headshot so it’ll be a breeze on the day! You deserve images that feel confident, authentic and unmistakably you.
