How Industry Affects Your Headshot Attire: What to Wear Based on Your Profession

Your corporate headshot is often the first impression you make on clients, colleagues, and potential employers. But did you know that your industry plays a major role in determining what you should wear for your professional headshot?

At Glynns Thomas Portraits, we specialize in corporate and executive headshots that align with your industry and personal brand. Whether you work in finance, law, tech, marketing, or creative fields, dressing appropriately for your headshot ensures that you project the right image.

Let’s explore how different industries influence headshot attire and what you should wear to make the right impression.

Why Your Industry Matters in a Headshot

Your attire communicates professionalism, credibility, and industry expectations. A lawyer’s headshot will look different from that of a startup founder or a creative director. The key is to dress in a way that:

✔ Aligns with your industry’s culture and expectations.

✔ Conveys confidence and authority.

✔ Matches the professional image you want to project.

✔ Creates a lasting, positive first impression.

Industry-Specific Headshot Attire: What to Wear

1. Finance, Law, and Corporate Leadership (Formal & Traditional)

💼 Best for: Executives, CEOs, Attorneys, Bankers, Financial Advisors

How to Dress:

✔ Men: Dark-colored suits (navy, charcoal, black), crisp white or light blue shirts, and a subtle-patterned tie.

✔ Women: Structured blazers in neutral or jewel tones, classic blouses, and minimal accessories.

✔ Avoid: Bright colors, flashy patterns, or casual clothing.

🔹 Goal: Project authority, trust, and credibility with a classic, timeless look.

2. Tech, Startups, and Engineering (Smart Business Casual)

🖥 Best for: Software Engineers, IT Professionals, Startup Founders, Product Managers

How to Dress:

✔ Men: Well-fitted dress shirts (solid or subtle patterns), blazers (optional), and dark jeans or dress pants.

✔ Women: Modern blouses, blazers (optional), and fitted dresses or tailored pants.

✔ Avoid: Ties (unless in leadership), overly formal suits, or busy patterns.

🔹 Goal: Appear approachable, innovative, and forward-thinking while maintaining professionalism.

3. Marketing, PR, and Creative Fields (Polished but Stylish)

🎨 Best for: Graphic Designers, Content Creators, PR Professionals, Branding Experts

How to Dress:

✔ Men: Blazers with stylish button-downs, fitted sweaters, or structured polos.

✔ Women: Solid or patterned blouses, tailored blazers, and tasteful statement jewelry.

✔ Colors: Jewel tones, subtle patterns, or textures that add personality.

✔ Avoid: Overly corporate attire (unless necessary), distracting neon colors.

🔹 Goal: Show creativity and confidence while remaining polished and professional.

4. Healthcare and Medical Professionals (Clean & Trustworthy)

🏥 Best for: Doctors, Nurses, Dentists, Healthcare Executives

How to Dress:

✔ Men & Women: Light-colored dress shirts (blue, gray, white), blazers (optional), or clean, professional scrubs.

✔ Avoid: Heavy patterns, overly bold colors, or accessories that distract from your face.

🔹 Goal: Convey trust, professionalism, and approachability in your headshot.

5. Real Estate, Sales, and Client-Facing Roles (Sharp & Approachable)

🏡 Best for: Realtors, Sales Executives, Business Consultants

How to Dress:

✔ Men: Well-tailored suits or blazers with a dress shirt (ties are optional).

✔ Women: Professional blouses or dresses with a structured blazer.

✔ Colors: Blues, grays, or jewel tones to appear trustworthy and approachable.

✔ Avoid: Distracting jewelry, overly casual outfits.

🔹 Goal: Appear polished, confident, and client-friendly to build rapport.

6. Entrepreneurs & Personal Brands (Authentic & On-Brand)

🚀 Best for: Coaches, Authors, Speakers, Small Business Owners

How to Dress:

✔ Choose colors and styles that align with your personal brand.

✔ Casual yet professional: Fitted blazers, stylish shirts, or polished casual wear.

✔ Avoid: Anything too formal or too casual—balance professionalism with personality.

🔹 Goal: Show confidence and authenticity while maintaining a professional presence.

Headshot Attire Tips for Every Industry

📌 Stick to solid colors – They photograph best and keep the focus on you.

📌 Layer with blazers or jackets – They add structure and professionalism.

📌 Avoid distracting accessories – Simple is always better.

📌 Ensure a great fit – Well-tailored clothing elevates your look.

📌 Grooming & minimal makeup – Keep it natural and polished.

Ready for a Professional Headshot That Reflects Your Industry?

At Glynns Thomas Portraits, we tailor your headshot experience to match your profession, personal brand, and industry expectations.

📸 Schedule your corporate headshot session today!👉https://www.glynnsthomas.com/contact-sacramento-photographer