Resumes, LinkedIn profiles, portfolios, and more... A great headshot can help you stand out among your colleagues and peers as you're looking for that next job or step up in your career. Check off these five things before you go to your photo shoot, and you will look and feel your very best.

Drink plenty of water and and get a good night's sleep prior to your photo shoot to avoid dark circles under your eyes. You'll want to look naturally fresh for your photos. A makeup artist can reduce blemishes, but having a natural glow will show through your photos and make you look and feel more confident.

Wear something comfortable, professional, and natural. You don't want to look overdressed, or draw attention away from your face with bright colors and patterns. Choose solid color clothing that fits the business attire of your professional field.  Remember to iron your clothes before the shoot! If you don't have time, spray your outfit with a wrinkle remover and let it dry an hour before you get dressed.

If you plan to wear makeup, go for a natural look. For professional photos you don't typically need a makeup artist - you'll look and feel more yourself if you use the same products you do day-today. Avoid bright or shimmering tones in your eye shadow and lip color as they will distract from your face. If you don't normally wear makeup, feel free to skip it. A makeup artist can help you cover blemishes and bring out the natural glow in your facial tone without making you look like someone you're not.

Choose a simple hairstyle that frames your face. It may be tempting to go all out for the shoot, but the focus of the photos is your face, not your hairstyle. If you have long hair, wear it either naturally or in a simple updo that looks professional and clean. Hair bands, clips, and other accessories should be minimally visible if worn at all. If your hair is colored, go ahead and get your roots touched up.

Pro Tip: Don't get your hair cut or styled differently the day before the shoot. It's better to have a style you're used to than to have to adjust the day your session.

What to Bring:

• Hair brush, bobby pins, and any other styling products you use on a regular basis
• An extra change of clothes
• Makeup/styling products for touchups
• Your best smile!

A New Year calls for a new you. Tendo Photography professional headshots and portraits for any occasion. To learn more about our services, click here.