Dress me - professional photo edition

[RitzyHeifer]

I have to get picture taken at work (I’m a finalist for an award and it’s for the PR). I work in student affairs in the largest/wealthiest college at a big university.

I am not naturally photogenic at all and not terribly stylish. I’m really self conscious and my go-to outfit of a shell and blazer isn’t great on me any more - I have lymphedema from my mastectomy so any blazer big enough for my arm is sloppy/ill fitting on my torso. But I feel like my day to day business casual isn’t nice enough for a photo.

I am pear shaped, about size 18 or XL. Usually have to go to 2xl for tops for my arm unless they have a lot of stretch. Links are appreciated!

(also open to make up tips for photos - I wear glasses if that makes a difference)

[momin2013]

I would say for colour, jewel tones typically look nice in photos. I don’t think you need a blazer if that’s not a good fit for you. A sweater that has a pretty neckline would be nice, along with a necklace if you have one that goes with it. Is it just a headshot, or full body?

ETA: go with solid colours vs patterns.

[georgeglass]

Agreed. My last two professional photos have been a jewel toned top or a black dress. I don't see a ton of blazers anymore. Also agree on solid color vs pattern or anything busy.

[fortnightlily]

Universal Standard has some good workwear options.

[konapoppy]

Look up Christine Buzan - she has great posing and outfit tips.

Also, consider getting your makeup professionally done at Sephora or similar. I did that for photos recently and between the makeup and knowing how to pose, I was thrilled with how they came out.

[sadlebred]

Last time I had professional headshots done I wore a black ponte blazer, royal blue top, and pearls. Sort of timeless.

[Beeps (WOT?*)]

Nov 3, 2024 22:43:30 GMT -5 sadlebred said:

Last time I had professional headshots done I wore a black ponte blazer, royal blue top, and pearls. Sort of timeless.

This is my friend's go-to for headshots. Interesting dichotomy because they're for her job as a lawyer, in political leadership (she's our party county chair currently), *and* for community theater. Very all-around classic look for three very different purposes.
It's what I would have done in the past (and what the majority of the female attorneys in my husband's office do now.) Mine now would be a sweater (for me, generally a turtleneck because I love turtlenecks but that's not an everybody choice) and a delicate necklace, because I'm more casual in my old age and it would be for volunteer or political work, a more casual type of appearance now than in the past.

Ditto on getting your face done pre-shoot at a Sephora, Ulta, or upscale or mid-level department store. (I had mine done at Nordstrom in the past and I think I might have done it at Macy's before?)

[mrsukyankee]

If you are a makeup wearer, don't be afraid to be a bit more bold - makeup in photos looks 'lighter' than in person. I learned that in a few pro shots. I would encourage you to wear something that you find comfortable to stand and sit in more than anything else. If you aren't comfy in what you are wearing, it'll come across. And finally, come up with a memory or thought of something which or someone who makes you happy. Just before the pictures, imagine that - it'll bring out a natural smile or expression.

[RitzyHeifer]

Thanks everyone! Are scarves still a thing? Infinity loop ones or traditional straight ones?

I have a scar from my chemo port on my neck and I can’t stand turtlenecks. But maybe a makeup artist can cover it, actually…