What to Wear for Your Headshots
Dressing to impress for photos can feel overwhelming with endless options. Of course, you want to put your best face forward for your professional portraits. Feeling comfortable and confident is the top priority for your outfit of choice.
But if you’re not a fashion guru, NTP 2 Photography has tried and true wardrobe tips so you (and your business) can make a great first impression. Scroll on to get ready for your headshot photoshoot.
Take an Industry Cue
The type of industry you work in will be the gauge of appropriate attire to wear in your photo session.
Your outfit will differ depending on if you work in an active, outdoor capacity versus a more formal or creative field or even one that requires a uniform. Pay attention to what your boss wears daily. And if you are the boss, take a look at what others in your industry are wearing in their headshots.
Avoid Worn & Too-Casual Clothing
No matter the type of job you have, you want to punch things up for your professional photos. While still keeping your industry in mind, opt for a bit more formal than your usual day-to-day wear.
And make sure what you do select is in good condition and clean. This is particularly true of brighter clothing and knitted fabrics that can show pilling. We suggest opting for tailored items that are on the newer side or labeled “dry-clean only.”
Bring Multiple Options
Depending on which portrait session you book with NTP 2 Photography, we either allow two or three outfit changes for your headshots.
We like to suggest the rule of three when it comes to your attire. The first outfit is what a client would see you in if they were in when meeting with you in a professional setting. Then, you want to go up a level for a more professional look, and then choose an outfit with a more casual feel. We normally say unless you are in the fitness industry then yoga pants won't cut it!
So keep in mind what kind of work you’d normally be doing in your chosen location and what you’d normally be wearing. Whether you choose different colors or opt for a more formal look paired with a more casual look, it’s a good idea to have a variety of looks.
It’s recommended that you bring back-ups just in case. You never know when you might have the misfortune of a spill, tear, or even angry bird wrecking your outfit. And as we shoot the photos we like to have options to choose from, and often when we see an outfit, we might decide to change the plan.
At NTP2 Photography, The Business Headshot Session package offers 2 outfit changes and the Business Branding Session offers 3 outfit changes.
Focus on Fit
A tailored fit is always the best outfit choice for headshots. Wearing oversized clothes or even a tad too small can make you appear bigger than you are.
Suits in darker colors are always a safe and timeless choice. Make sure the shoulders and arms are a perfect fit. If you’re concerned about the waist, don’t fret – headshots are usually from the shoulders and up or just above the waist. Because these photos are cropped, you may want to wear a top with a higher neckline, including keeping suit shirts buttoned up.
Keep It Simple
The best professional headshots are free from distraction, enhancing your natural features.
Keeping jewelry minimal, classic, and simple is best. If wearing a necklace, pendants are best if visible above the crop of the photo. You’ll also want to keep hair and makeup light, natural, and representative of you.
Ladies, you may even want to treat yourself to a blowout and professional makeup application with airbrushing for the perfect finish.
Consider Color Psychology
Color psychology is the study of hues relating to human behavior. Consider what message you want to communicate in your headshots and choose your wardrobe colors accordingly.
• Dark colors are considered more formal and authoritative, particularly high-contrast pairings
• Light colors are regarded as more approachable and friendly
• Most bright colors, like reds, oranges, yellows, and blues, convey power, confidence, and energy
• Neutral colors are conservative and, well, neutral
Select Solid Colors
Solid colors, or even very subtle patterns, are best for everyone. Avoid busy and bold patterns that are distracting from your face in headshots.
Always avoid small, repetitive patterns to prevent the moire effect; a camera can pick this up and create a wavy design that looks like it’s moving. When in doubt, stick to all solids or a light, large-scale pattern like a soft plaid.
Choose Clothes That Contrast
If you have a company-branded headshot with branded colors, then you’re already set! Otherwise, keep in mind the backdrop of your portraits when choosing colors for your headshots.
You’ll want to contrast with the background and your skin tone so you don’t look like a floating head. While you can get a great monochromatic look, it might be helpful to run your choices by the NTP 2 Photography team so we can guide you on the best options.
Ready for Your Professional Headshots
Whatever you choose to wear for your professional headshots, selecting a veteran photographer is paramount.
At NTP 2 Photography, we offer several packages so you can choose what’s right for you and your business. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule your professional headshots!
How to NAIL Your Holiday Family Photoshoot
The holidays are right around the corner, and that means holiday cards are, too! Sending out cards to friends and family is a way to slow down, record a snapshot in time, and share special moments with loved ones.
It’s a busy time of year, and I want to ensure that you and your family have an amazing and fun time while we capture the magic. NTP 2 Photography can document your family’s legacy and memories with timeless and high-quality images, no matter the size of your group.
Here are some ways to prepare for our session so we can nail your holiday family photoshoot! Still need to book your session? Act quick - Santa’s on his way, but our photographers are like his elves & are here to make your holiday season happier.
Tips for Holiday Family Portraits
Location, Location, Location!
There are many beautiful areas around Tampa Bay to choose from for the perfect backdrop in your photos. Selecting the ideal location will highlight your family’s personality in addition to keeping everyone comfortable. While the beach is always a stunning choice, it might not necessarily be the best option with toddlers who have a tough time dealing with the elements.
I typically like to customize the location based on each family – where you’re located in town, your preferences, etc. Whether it’s a nearby park with sweeping trees, in front of stunning architecture, gorgeous water views, or at your own home, I utilize varying spots within that location to make your photos truly unique.
Dress to Impress
When planning what to wear for your holiday photos, it’s essential to select a theme and color palette.
Whether you keep it casual in neutral tones or dress to the nines in sparkle and pattern, make sure each outfit compliments everyone else’s in the photo. And most importantly, wear clothes that fit, feel comfortable, and represent you and your family.
Something else to think about when selecting your wardrobe is the location. Take into consideration things like wind, temperature, and the general vibe of the area. Neutrals tend to compliment most locations, but you can also choose to go dark and moody or bold and beautiful. But if you prefer patterns, keep them to a minimum and avoid lots of competing colors or neon. I also recommend avoiding logos if as they may be distracting.
Express Yourself
Personalizing your session is a must. Tell a story about what represents your family or what you love doing. And feel free to bring props! From sports equipment and fishing gear to special toys and board games, you can’t go wrong, including special mementos in a few snaps.
If you choose to eventually display your photos in your home, keep your design scheme in mind. If you have cool grays and blues or warm beiges and browns, think about what will complement the décor. Additionally, envision how your photos will fit into your design aesthetic: modern and industrial, breezy and beachy, traditional or transitional, or dramatic and bold.
Prepare With the Kids
Keeping the kiddos all smiles during our session is undoubtedly preferable. In addition to ample sleep and happy bellies, bring some mess-free treats or toys to ward off any meltdowns. It’s also a great idea to have backup clothes in case of any accidents.
Get the littles excited for your upcoming session with their help picking out the location, wardrobe, or props. They’ll love being a part of the process and might even enjoy practicing taking photos or modeling their outfits. This will help them know what to expect during the photoshoot and ensure their clothing and props are camera-ready. Plus, those laughs and smiles will be natural and candid when everyone is feeling good.
Happy Holiday Memories for a Lifetime
Holidays may be full of hustle and bustle and the stress of finding that perfect gift, but our goal is to make your session stress-free and fun with beautiful images you’ll cherish forever as a family.
If you have questions or want to run some location, wardrobe, or prop ideas by our local photographers, don’t hesitate to reach out! NTP 2 Photography is still booking throughout Tampa Bay and can get your photos turned around quickly for any last-minute holiday cards you want to send.
FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER 20 FAMILIES FOR 2020
Each year as a professional photographer I set a personal goal to work with a number of families. As many others had large goals for 2020 and once the pandemic interrupted the world we didn't think we would reach our goal. Once we started back up we set a goal of 20 families for 2020 and after many sessions, phone calls, scheduling changes and so many other challenges. We did reach our goal of 20 Families for 2020. We even scheduled and shot until the last day of the month of December.
See a few of our families that we worked with for 2020. Thank you to all of our loyal clients who supported us and trusted us to photograph their family.
Canasi Family Carrollwood, Florida
Perkins Family in Land O’ Lakes Florida
Siegfried Family Covington Farm Dade City, Florida
Gray Family at University of Tampa
BUSINESS HEADSHOTS AND TEAM PORTRAITS
When I started in the world of photography I didn't have the slightest insight into where I would be today with photography and video production. Since starting I have found my area of focus to be in the world of branding and portraiture specifically business and professional lifestyle. Working with a business on how to promote their business I try to be subjective and think of what I would want to see if I were on their website. Capturing someone to relay professional, genuine, confident and most importantly approachable. The other part to doing these types of portraits is to let them be in their element, I mean who likes having their picture taken or at least most of these scenarios where they know they need to. Mickey Keenan's staff reached out needing updated portraits and was looking for a restored faith in photographers so I knew I needed to exceed their expectations. I set up at their office in the hallway and just worked with each person one at a time. The interaction while photographing them can make a difference and luckily I have experience with getting people to open up in a short period of time. One at a time they were all having a great time and peeking at the back of the camera and they were liking what they see. After that, we did some team portraits in their waiting area and then had a little fun showing off some of their merchandise and did a mask picture with their Mickey Keenan facemark that they have available in the office. The last thing we did was action shots of the legal team working together.
Take a look below at some of the portraits and if you want to learn more about this process then send us a message. You can also follow our projects on www.ntp2.com and social media @ntp2photography. business headshots professional headshots corporate headshots
ERIC'S TOP 5 TIPS TO PREP FOR REAL ESTATE LISTING PHOTOGRAPHY
I share with many of my closest clients that Real Estate was among the first services that I offered when I launched my business 5 years ago this month. The first listing that I photographed had a offer put in and was accepted within 3 days of going live. The part about that is uncommon is that the offer came from a out of state family that didn't see the house in person only by pictures. Ever since that day I have been doing business with some of those same individuals today. Many realtors will prep their homeowner to get their home ready for the listing photo session but I have noticed there are many areas of the home that are overlooked. That is why I put together my Top 5 Tips to get your home ready for real estate listing photos. Now before I share that it goes without saying that your realtor will prep you for the basics to get your home ready like cleaning, organizing, decluttering, etc.
5.) Check Light Fixtures-Many times fan light fixtures, bathroom vanities and recessed kitchen lights are missed. Make sure that the bulbs are all working and that they are all the same intensity and color temperature.
4.) Cluttered Areas- I share with so many that there is a difference between organized and unorganized areas. Avoid leaving rubber mate totes and cardboard boxes in the home. Use the garage as a place to store those items until after the shoot.
3.)Pet Items- Make sure to stow the pet items like bowls, toys and litter boxes away for the photoshoot.
2.)Driveway and Sidewalk being cleaned- Having the driveway and sidewalk cleaned beforehand is a very fast and small investment to make to give your property a facelift.
1.)Bathrooms and Kitchen - Remove personal items like toothbrushes, soap bottles and kitchen cleaning items. Decorative soap dishes can stay in the area but labeled soap bottles, toothpaste and toothbrushes can be stored until after.
For more information about Real Estate Listing Photography or other photography or video services reach out to Eric info@ntp2.com and make sure to follow on Social Media @NTP2Photography.