David Christopher Lee's rule is simple: always shoot both tie and no tie, so you keep the option. One session, two versions of you, and you decide later which one opens the door.
After 27 years directing portraits of 100+ celebrities, here is the wardrobe guidance that holds up for actors, executives, and creatives alike.
The Tie Rule
Shoot the tie, then lose it. A tie reads authority and polish. No tie reads approachable and modern. Casting directors, boards, and bookers respond to different signals, and you cannot know in advance which one they want. Shooting both means you never have to guess.
Tops: Keep It Simple
Solid colors beat patterns every time. A pattern fights your face for attention, and your face should win. Rich, solid tones that complement your skin tone photograph best. Bring options in a few depths, from a dark anchor to a lighter alternative.
Fit Matters More Than Brand
A well-fitted $40 shirt photographs better than a sloppy $400 one. Make sure collars sit clean, sleeves hit right, and nothing pulls. Iron or steam everything before the session.
Grooming
Hair should look like you on your best day, not like a different person. Keep it natural and controlled. For men, clean up the neckline and skip the five o'clock shadow unless it is your signature. For women, makeup should enhance, not mask. The camera reads everything.
What to Bring
Bring more than you think you need. Lay out three to four full options, including the tie and no-tie versions. Your photographer will help you narrow it down to the strongest looks for what the photos are for.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear for headshots?
David Christopher Lee's rule: always shoot both tie and no tie, so you keep the option. Bring solid colors that complement your skin tone, well-fitted tops, and three to four full wardrobe options.
Should I wear a tie in my headshot?
Shoot it both ways. A tie reads authority, no tie reads approachable. Having both versions means you are covered for any audience.
What colors photograph best for headshots?
Solid, rich colors that complement your skin tone. Avoid busy patterns, neon, and anything that pulls attention away from your face.
Should I get a haircut before headshots?
Get one a week before, not the day before, so it settles into looking like you. Avoid trying a brand-new style right before a session.
