
Choosing the right color for a headshot may seem simple, but it plays a major role in how professional, confident, and approachable you appear. At Shea Anne Studios, we’ve seen how the right wardrobe color can elevate an image—and how the wrong one can quietly undermine it.
A headshot isn’t about fashion trends. It’s about clarity, balance, and timeless appeal. Below is a detailed guide on the best colors to wear, what to avoid, and specific recommendations for men and women.
Color directly affects:
The wrong shade can reflect unwanted color onto your face, create harsh contrast, or distract the viewer.

Men’s headshots benefit from strong, structured, confidence-driven colors.
These colors photograph well across corporate, entrepreneurial, and creative industries.

Women have more flexibility, but the goal remains the same: highlight the face without distraction.
These shades complement a wide range of skin tones and photograph beautifully.
Reflects too much light and can wash out facial features. Better option: Cream or off-white.
They distract from your face and can cast unnatural tones on skin.
They pull attention away from your expression and age poorly.
Cause glare under studio lighting.
They reduce contrast and make you look flat.
Professional guidance like this is a common factor among studios that meet the expectations associated with the best headshot photographers dallas clients consistently trust—without needing the image to feel location-specific.
I usually choose navy or a deep jewel tone because it always looks polished and keeps the focus on my face.
Yes, I think men benefit from structured, darker tones, while women look best in softer or richer colors that frame the face.
I wear black only when the fabric is matte and well-fitted, and I trust the lighting to show enough detail.
I bring two or three solid-color options so I can decide what works best on camera.
Absolutely. I’ve seen how the right color can instantly make a headshot look more professional and confident.
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