How to Prepare for a Headshot Session: The Complete Pre-Shoot Checklist

Preparation is what separates great headshots from good ones. This complete pre-shoot checklist covers everything you need to do in the week before, the night before, and the morning of your professional headshot session.

One Week Before Your Headshot Session

• Book and confirm all details with your photographer: start time, location, parking, session duration, and what is included
• Finalize your wardrobe: select 2–3 outfit options, try them on, and check for fit issues, wrinkles, or missing buttons
• Research reference looks: find 3–5 professional headshots you admire and share them with your photographer
• Get your haircut: schedule for 3–5 days before the shoot (not the morning of or the day before)
• Schedule any hair coloring: at least 7–10 days before to allow color to settle
• Plan your skincare: start any new skincare routines a week out, not days before (new products can cause reactions)

Two Days Before Your Headshot Session

• Steam or dry-clean all garments; hang them ready to go
• Confirm your appointment with your photographer
• Prepare a packing list: outfits on hangers, lint roller, touch-up makeup, hairbrush, safety pins
• Research the shoot location and plan travel (no morning stress)
• If getting a manicure or blowout, do this 1–2 days before

Night Before Your Headshot Session

• Get at least 7–8 hours of sleep — it shows in your eyes and reduces puffiness
• Avoid alcohol (causes facial puffiness) and salty foods (causes water retention)
• Drink plenty of water to keep skin hydrated and clear
• Lay out all your items so morning is stress-free
• Do a light face mask or gentle moisturizer treatment if that's part of your routine

Morning of Your Headshot Session

• Eat a light meal — neither starving nor overly full
• Apply any makeup or grooming in natural light before leaving, then check under different lighting
• Arrive 10–15 minutes early to settle in, review the space, and mentally prepare
• Do a brief physical warm-up: stretch your face, shake out tension, take deep breaths
• Remind yourself: photographers are experts at drawing natural expressions — relax and trust the process

During the Session

Communicate actively with your photographer. Tell them if a pose or expression feels forced. Ask to see test shots periodically. Don't watch the clock — the best shots often come when you've fully relaxed, usually toward the end of the session.

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