Getting ready for a professional headshot session in Dallas, Texas? Your hair and makeup can make all the difference. The goal is to look natural, polished, and confident while bringing out your personality. Whether you’re an executive, actor, or author, your appearance on camera plays a big part in the impression you make. To help you stand out for all the right reasons, here are some practical hair and makeup tips to nail your headshot. 

The Do’s

1. Keep It Natural 

Your headshot should showcase the best version of you. Stick to makeup and hairstyles that match your everyday professional or personal look. Soft, clean, and approachable styles photograph best—they make you look genuine and relatable. Avoid going overboard; the goal is to look like yourself on your best day. 

2. Use Matte Products 

Shiny or shimmery makeup can reflect light in ways you don’t want, creating distracting highlights in your photos. Go for matte foundations, powders, and lipsticks to keep your look polished. Matte products also work better with studio lighting, giving your skin a natural, balanced finish. 

3. Prep Your Skin 

Healthy, fresh skin always looks great on camera. The night before, give your skin a light exfoliation to smooth things out, and follow up with a good moisturizer to keep it hydrated. Women might want to use a light primer under their makeup for an even base, while men can opt for a clean-shaven or neatly groomed look. 

4. Style Hair Neatly 

Your hairstyle should reflect your typical professional style—just a bit more polished. Brush or style your hair neatly and use a light-hold hairspray to tame any flyaways. Avoid overloading on product, as it can make your hair look stiff or greasy on camera. Simple, classic hairstyles often work best for a professional setting. 

5. Stick to Neutral Tones 

When it comes to makeup, neutral shades are the way to go. Browns, taupes, and soft pinks work well to subtly enhance your features without stealing the show. If you’re using lipstick, pick a shade close to your natural lip color to keep things elegant and understated. This way, the focus stays on your expression. 

6. Go With What/Whom You Trust 

If you’re hiring a hairstylist or makeup artist, choose someone you trust or, better yet, someone you’ve worked with before. The day of your shoot isn’t the time to try a completely new look or experiment with unfamiliar products. Feeling comfortable and confident in your appearance is key! 

7. Bring Touch-Up Tools 

If your shoot is going to take a while, pack a small brush, comb, or any styling tools you might need to adjust your hair. Men can bring a lightweight pomade or gel to keep things neat without adding too much shine. A quick touch-up here and there will help you stay polished throughout the session.

The Don’ts

1. Avoid Over-the-Top Looks
 

Unless you're putting together a creative or acting portfolio that calls for bold choices, it’s best to steer clear of heavy makeup, smoky eyes, bright lips, or intricate hairstyles. These dramatic looks can overshadow your natural self and feel out of place in professional headshots. Think polished but authentic! 

2. Skip Bold Colors 

Bright eyeshadow, heavy contouring, and deep, unnatural shades can come across as harsh on camera. The same goes for over-styled or overly sculpted hairstyles—they can take attention away from your face. Stick to soft, balanced colors and natural styling for an approachable and professional vibe. 

3. Don’t Forget About Your Eyebrows 

Eyebrows play a big role in framing your face, which is why you should not neglect them! Ladies should fill in sparse areas with a brow pencil or powder for a fuller look. Gentlemen should keep their brows tidy by trimming or brushing them while maintaining their natural look. 

4. Avoid Last-Minute Changes 

Big changes right before your shoot? Not the best idea. Avoid fresh haircuts, new highlights, or trying unfamiliar skincare products just days before your session. These can lead to unexpected results and might leave you feeling less confident in your final look. Stick to what you know works for you! 

5. Skip Glossy Products 

Shiny isn't always your friend in photos. Lip gloss, oily hair treatments, or overly dewy foundation can reflect light and cause distracting glare. Go for soft, matte finishes instead—they photograph beautifully and keep the focus on you. 

6. Don't Overdo Anything 

Less is more when it comes to headshots. Too much foundation can look cakey under the camera, and overly stiff or “perfect” hairstyles can feel unnatural. Instead, aim for subtle enhancements that highlight your personality in the best way. Balance is key! 

Let MG Marshall Photography Capture Your Best Look 

Preparing for a headshot session doesn’t have to be complicated, and the little things you do to get ready can make a big difference. Following these tips will help you walk into your session feeling confident and ready to show your best self—professional, approachable, and genuine. If you’re in Dallas, Texas or nearby areas, MG Marshall Photography is here to help you every step of the way. From consultations to selecting the perfect shots for your portfolio, we make sure your experience is seamless and tailored to you. Ready to get started? Contact us today to book your session. Let’s capture you at your very best!