A Stylish Guide to Preparing for Your Team’s Headshot Session

Team headshots are a powerful tool. They visually represent your brand’s unity, professionalism, and identity. As a photographer, I specialize in capturing that cohesive look while ensuring each individual shines. To help your team prepare for a successful session, here are some stylish headshot session ideas and guidelines designed to bring out the best in everyone, together.

Setting the Stage for Success: Team-Focused Headshot Session Ideas

Before diving into individual attire, let’s establish some overarching principles for a unified team aesthetic:

• Define Your Brand’s Style: Is your brand modern, classic, creative, or corporate? This should be the guiding principle for wardrobe choices.

• Color Coordination: Choose a color palette that complements your brand and works well for a group photo. This doesn’t mean everyone needs to wear the same color, but select a range of complementary colors.

• Level of Formality: Determine the appropriate level of formality for your team. Consistent formality across the team is crucial (e.g., business professional, business casual).

Guidelines for the Gents: Projecting a Unified, Professional Front

For men, maintaining a sharp and consistent look within the team is key.

• Fit and Silhouette: Slim-fit shirts and jackets are generally preferred for a modern, tailored look. Ensure everyone in the team is on the same page regarding fit – avoid some individuals wearing very baggy clothing while others are in slim-fit.  

• Patterns: If some team members wear patterns, ensure they are subtle and cohesive. Print ties and pinstripes can work, but avoid clashing patterns within the group.  

• Layering Consistency: If some team members choose to layer with jackets or sweaters, offer guidelines for the style and color of those layers to maintain a unified look.  

• Color Harmony: Coordinate colors within the team’s chosen palette. Encourage a mix of light and dark options, and consider how pops of color can be used strategically across the group.  

• Sleeve Length: For a polished look, long sleeves are generally preferred. If some opt for rolled sleeves for a more casual feel, ensure this is done consistently within the team.  

• Professional Staples: If the team’s style is business professional, collared shirts and suits are essential. Consistency in suit style and color is important for team photos.  

• Bottoms Coordination: Since many shots are ¾ length, coordinate pants within the team’s color palette and style guidelines.  

• Footwear Considerations: If shoes are visible, ensure they align with the team’s overall style and color scheme.  

• Accessorizing with Intent: Accessories like watches, cufflinks, glasses, and pocket squares should complement the overall team aesthetic.  

• Grooming Standards: Consistent grooming is essential. Ensure everyone has clean, manicured nails and that hair is neat and styled appropriately.  

Guidelines for the Ladies: Achieving a Cohesive and Confident Look

For women, it’s about balancing individual style with a unified team presence. Here are some headshot session ideas for the ladies!

• Flattering and Consistent Silhouettes: While form-fitting clothing is generally flattering, establish a guideline for the level of “form-fitting” to ensure consistency across the team.  

• Pattern Guidelines: Offer clear guidelines on patterns. If any are worn, they should be subtle and align with the team’s overall aesthetic.  

• Textural Harmony: Textures like lace, ruffles, sequins, and ruching can add interest, but ensure they are used in a way that complements the team’s look, not distracts from it.  

• Coordinated Color Palette: Define a color palette for the team and encourage a mix of light and dark options, with strategic use of accent colors.  

• Sleeve Guidelines: Establish guidelines for sleeve length to create a cohesive look. Sleeveless, ¾ sleeves, or long sleeves can all work, but consistency is key.  

• Layering for Unity: If team members choose to layer, provide guidelines for the style and color of jackets or cardigans to maintain a unified appearance.  

• Neckline Considerations: While variety in necklines can be good, ensure they are appropriate for the team’s style and don’t clash in the photos.  

• Jewelry Coordination: Jewelry should complement individual style and the team’s overall look. Provide guidelines on the size and style of jewelry to avoid a cluttered appearance.  

• Bottoms That Blend: Ensure skirts or pants coordinate with tops and fit within the team’s chosen style and color palette.  

• Undergarment Awareness: Appropriate undergarments are essential for a polished look. Communicate the importance of foundational pieces and shapewear for achieving a smooth silhouette.  

Working Together for a Unified Image During Your Team’s Headshot Session

Team headshots are a collaborative effort. By establishing clear guidelines and encouraging open communication, you can ensure that everyone feels confident and looks cohesive. Remember, the goal is to create a set of images that represents your team’s professionalism, unity, and brand identity. And as always, I’m here to help guide you through the process and capture the best possible results!