What should I wear if the photo is for LinkedIn?

A solid mid-tone top with a blazer or clean collar works for almost every industry. When in doubt, dress one notch above what you would wear to the office.

Can I wear glasses in my headshot?

Yes. Bring them and I will adjust the lighting angle so there is no glare. If you have anti-reflective lenses, even easier.

Is a white or black shirt better?

It depends on the background. Mid-tones are the safest choice because they hold detail and do not blow out or disappear against the backdrop.

The Journal · Headshots

What to Wear for a Professional Headshot

By Gagan Dhanda · July 15, 2026 · 4 min read

Most people overthink what to wear and then stand in front of the closet the morning of. Here is how I would keep it simple.

Start with solid colours

The wardrobe question comes up in almost every booking, and the honest answer is simpler than people expect. Solid colours photograph best because they keep the attention on your face. Busy patterns, tight stripes, and small checks tend to shimmer on camera and pull the eye away from you.

Mid-tones are the safest bet — navy, deep green, burgundy, charcoal, and muted earth tones all read well and suit most skin tones.

Simple and minimal: a plain top and one small piece of jewellery. Nothing competes with the face.

Fit matters more than brand

Clothes that fit cleanly always look more expensive than clothes that are loose or bunched. A fitted (not tight) top, a structured blazer, or a clean collar all hold their shape on camera. If you are bringing a jacket, make sure the shoulders sit right — that is the line the camera notices first.

A blazer over a plain tee: smart, current, and easy to wear for most industries.

A few things to leave in the closet

Skip large logos, neon, brand-new stiff clothing that has not been worn in, and anything with a fine repeating pattern. Big or shiny jewellery can date a photo fast, so keep it simple. If you wear glasses, bring them — I will angle the light to kill the glare rather than ask you to take them off.

My one tip: bring two or three options. We will put them on camera and pick what is working in about a minute. It takes the guesswork out, and you will see the difference yourself.

Dressed one notch up from everyday — a clean dark layer still reads professional.