What to Bring to Your Professional Headshot Session: Complete Checklist

So you booked your professional headshot session, now what?

Here’s the thing: showing up prepared can make a huge difference in how smooth your session goes and how happy you’ll be with your final images. I’ve photographed thousands of clients for their headshots, and it’s always pretty clear when someone came ready versus someone who’s scrambling to figure things out on the spot.

Being well-prepared doesn’t just reduce stress (though that’s a nice bonus). It also means you’ll get more variety in your shots, look your absolute best, and actually enjoy the experience instead of worrying about whether you forgot something important.

This guide covers everything you should bring to your headshot session—from the obvious stuff like outfits to the smaller details that can really make a difference. Consider this your go-to checklist for showing up confident and ready.

Multiple Outfit Options

Let’s start with the big one: your clothing.

The number one thing I tell clients? Bring more outfit options than you think you’ll need. Even if we don’t end up using everything, having choices gives us flexibility during the session.

How Many Outfits Should You Bring?

For a standard session, I typically recommend bringing at least 2-3 complete outfits. If you’ve booked a longer session, you could bring 5+ options.

Here’s why multiple outfits matter: you might love how one looks on the hanger, but once we see it on camera, it might not photograph the way you expected. Or maybe the lighting brings out certain colors differently than you anticipated. Having backup options means we’re not stuck if something isn’t working.

Plus, different outfits give you different looks for different purposes. For instance, you might want a formal suit look for your law firm website, but also a more approachable blazer-and-shirt combo for your LinkedIn profile. Or maybe you need a healthcare-professional look and something more creative for your personal brand.

How to Transport Your Outfits

This might seem obvious, but it’s worth mentioning: bring your outfits on hangers in a garment bag if possible. Folding them in a bag often leads to wrinkles, and nobody wants to spend the first 15 minutes of their session trying to steam out creases.

If you don’t have a garment bag, that’s fine—just try to lay your clothes flat in your car or carry them carefully.

Creating Outfit Variety

When choosing which outfits to bring, think about variety in both color and style. You probably don’t need three navy blazers (unless that’s specifically what you’re going for). Instead, mix it up:

• One darker, more formal option
• One lighter or mid-tone option
• Maybe one with a pop of color that suits your brand
• Different necklines or collar styles

In 2026, professionals are increasingly using different headshot looks for different platforms and purposes. Your corporate website might call for traditional business attire, while your Instagram profile could benefit from something more casual and approachable. Having multiple looks ready means you’re covered for all these scenarios.

Philadelphia Business Culture Considerations

If you’re based in Philadelphia, you probably already know our business culture tends to be professional but not overly stuffy (compared to, say, New York). Finance and legal professionals typically lean more formal, while tech and creative folks often go for business casual.

Also worth considering: Philadelphia weather. If you’re coming to your session in the summer, you’ll probably be pretty warm carrying multiple outfits around. In winter, you might arrive bundled up in a heavy coat. Either way, give yourself a few minutes when you arrive to settle in and let your clothing adjust to room temperature (especially important if you’ve been outside in humidity or cold).

For more guidance on what specific outfits work best, check out my detailed guide on what to wear to your headshot session and common headshot wardrobe mistakes to avoid.

Grooming & Touch-Up Essentials

Even if you spend an hour getting ready before your session, you’ll probably need some touch-ups during the shoot. That’s completely normal—in fact, it’s expected.

Makeup Essentials

If you wear makeup, bring your basics for touch-ups:

• Foundation or concealer (for quick fixes)
• Oil-blotting papers or translucent powder (this is huge—studio lighting can cause shine even on skin that doesn’t normally appear oily)
• Lipstick or lip gloss (for refreshing your look between outfit changes)
• Small mirror (though studios typically have mirrors too)

You don’t need to bring your entire makeup collection, just the essentials you’ll need for quick adjustments. Think of it like bringing travel-size versions of your key products.

Hair Products

Bring whatever you typically use to keep your hair looking the way you want it:

• Hairspray or styling gel
• Brush or comb
• Hair ties if you want the option to try your hair both up and down
• Bobby pins for keeping flyaways in check

For men with beards, a small container of beard oil can help keep things looking neat and well-groomed throughout the session but not necessary.

The Often-Forgotten Items

These are the things people frequently wish they’d brought:

• Lint roller: Absolute lifesaver, especially if you’re wearing dark colors or have a pet at home. Many photographers have them in the studio too.
• Wrinkle releaser spray: Even if you transported everything perfectly, clothes can still develop wrinkles while you’re wearing them

Philadelphia Weather Considerations

If you’re shooting in Philadelphia during the summer, humidity can be your hair’s worst enemy (especially July and August). Bring extra products to combat frizz or maintain your style despite the moisture in the air.

In winter, static electricity becomes the problem—your hair might stick to your sweater, or your clothes might cling in unflattering ways. A quick spritz of anti-static spray works.

For more specific guidance on hair and makeup for headshots, see my full hair and makeup guide. And if you’re wondering about timing, I’ve also written about whether you should get a haircut before your headshot session.

Accessories & Props

Accessories can really complete your look, but the key word here is “complete”—not “overwhelm.”

Professional Accessories

Think about the small details that make your outfit feel polished. Some of these will be cropped out of a traditional headshot but they are something to think about if you are going to be shooting anything “wider” than a headshot.

• Watches: A nice watch can add sophistication without being distracting
• Jewelry: Keep it simple and classic (typically), nothing too flashy or noisy that might catch light in weird ways
• Ties and pocket squares: For men, these can add personality to a suit or blazer
• Belts: Often forgotten but visible in certain shots

The general rule? Accessories should enhance your look, not become the focal point. If someone’s first thought when looking at your headshot is “wow, what an interesting necklace” rather than “this person looks professional and approachable,” you’ve probably gone too big.

Industry-Specific Props

Depending on your profession, you might want to bring items that help tell your story:

• Medical professionals might bring a stethoscope (although I tend to think it is a little cheesy)
• Architects could bring drafting tools or blueprints
• Creative professionals might bring their instrument, paintbrush, or camera

That said, many effective headshots don’t use props at all. Your face and expression are almost always the most important elements. Props work best when they feel natural and relevant, not forced.

Glasses

If you wear glasses regularly, definitely bring them—even if you also have contacts. We can do shots both ways and see what you prefer. Glasses are part of how people recognize you, so there’s often good reason to include them.

However, if you have multiple pairs of glasses (maybe one for work and one more casual pair), bring your options. Sometimes the frame style that looks great in person doesn’t photograph as well, or vice versa.

For detailed guidance on this, check out my article on headshot photography with glasses.

This isn’t required, but some clients like to bring examples of where your headshot will be used (like a mock-up of your website)

These can help me understand the context for your images and make sure we’re creating something that fits your needs.

If you’re planning an environmental headshot session rather than a pure studio shoot, props and accessories often play a bigger role in setting the scene and telling your professional story.

Comfort & Energy Items

This section might seem less critical, but trust me—being comfortable and energized during your session makes a noticeable difference in your final images.

Water

Bring a water bottle. Talking, smiling, and being “on” for 30-60 minutes can be surprisingly tiring, and staying hydrated helps you maintain energy and keeps your skin looking fresh. My studio has water so if you schedule with me, no need to worry about this.

Plus, having a dry mouth makes natural smiling harder (probably something you’ve never thought about, but it’s true).

Light Snacks

If your session is scheduled during a time when you might get hungry, bring a light snack. Nothing messy or likely to get stuck in your teeth (skip the spinach salad), but something like a protein bar or crackers can help maintain your energy.

That said, I’d avoid eating anything right before we start shooting—you want to make sure nothing’s stuck in your teeth, and you don’t want to feel too full (which can affect how you feel in your clothing).

Comfortable Walking Shoes

If you’re wearing dress shoes or heels for your headshots, bring comfortable shoes to walk in before and after the session. Your feet will thank you, especially if you’re doing any walking around Philadelphia to get to the studio or if you have other appointments that day.

Weather-Appropriate Outerwear

Bring appropriate outerwear for the weather, especially if you’re parking any distance away or if we’re doing any outdoor shots. You don’t want to arrive flustered and sweaty (or frozen solid) because you weren’t dressed for the weather outside.

Just remember to give yourself a few minutes to cool down or warm up before we start shooting so you’re comfortable and your skin tone looks natural. I always incorporate some breathing time upon arrival to the studio to acclimate.

Payment Method

Know ahead of time what payment methods your photographer accepts and bring what you need. Some photographers require payment before or at the session, while others invoice afterward (I typically charge the balance after you’ve selected your final images, but every photographer is different).

Reference Photos

This is optional but can be really helpful: bring a few examples of headshots you like (could be saved on your phone). This gives me a visual reference for what you’re hoping to achieve. Bonus points if they are photos your photographer has shot (from their website etc)

List of Where You’ll Use Your Headshots

It can be helpful to think through (and maybe jot down) where you’ll be using these headshots:

• LinkedIn
• Company website
• Email signature
• Conference materials
• Book jacket or speaking engagements
• Social media profiles

Knowing this upfront helps guide decisions during the shoot. For instance, if you need a square crop for Instagram, we’ll make sure to leave appropriate space around your head. If you need horizontal images for a website banner, we’ll capture some of those too.

Questions List

If you have specific questions about the process, turnaround time, or anything else, write them down beforehand so you don’t forget to ask. There’s no such thing as a silly question—this is your session, and you should feel informed and comfortable.

What NOT to Bring

Just as important as what to bring is knowing what to leave at home.

Too Many Accessory Options

While having outfit options is great, bringing 15 different necklaces or 10 ties to choose from can actually slow things down and create decision fatigue. Curate your options ahead of time to a manageable number.

Think quality over quantity—bring your best 2-3 options rather than every accessory you own.

Stress and Anxiety

Okay, this one’s a bit tongue-in-cheek since you can’t exactly leave your feelings at home. But seriously—try not to bring too much pressure or anxiety into the session.

I know that’s easier said than done (especially if you’re not comfortable in front of cameras), but remember: headshot sessions are supposed to be collaborative and even enjoyable. Most people are pleasantly surprised by how relaxed the experience is once they get started.

If you’ve prepared well and brought everything on this list, you’ve already done the hard part. The rest is just showing up and letting your photographer guide you through it.

Studio vs. Outdoor Session Differences

Philadelphia offers great options for both studio headshots and environmental sessions. Studio sessions give you consistent lighting and a controlled environment, while outdoor sessions in spots like Rittenhouse Square or along the Schuylkill River Trail can provide beautiful natural light and interesting backgrounds.

What you bring might differ slightly depending on which you’ve chosen. Outdoor sessions might call for more weather considerations, while studio sessions typically need less planning around external factors.

For more on these differences, see my comparison of environmental vs. studio headshots.

Local Session Locations

Some popular Philadelphia locations for headshots include:

• Rittenhouse Square: Beautiful park setting, great for approachable professional shots
• Old City: Historic brick and cobblestone, perfect for creative professionals or attorneys
• Center City: Modern urban backdrop, ideal for corporate professionals
• University City: Academic and innovative feel, great for educators and researchers

Each neighborhood has its own character, and the location can influence what you bring and how you prepare. A session in Rittenhouse Square might call for slightly more casual attire than a studio session in a Center City high-rise.

If you’re trying to decide between photographers and locations, my guide on how to choose a headshot photographer in Philadelphia might be helpful.

Your Printable Checklist

Okay, let’s bring this all together into a scannable checklist you can use when preparing for your session.

The Night Before

• Choose your 2-3 outfits and hang them up
• Check all clothing for stains, wrinkles, or needed repairs
• Gather accessories (watches, jewelry, ties, etc.)
• Charge your phone
• Get a good night’s sleep (probably the most underrated preparation tip)

What to Pack

Clothing:

• 2-3 complete outfits on hangers or in garment bag
• Appropriate undergarments for each outfit
• Comfortable walking shoes

Grooming & Touch-Ups:

• Makeup essentials for touch-ups
• Oil-blotting papers or translucent powder
• Small mirror
• Hair products and styling tools
• Lint roller
• Wrinkle releaser spray
• Beard oil (if applicable)

Accessories:

• Professional jewelry or watches
• Glasses (if you wear them)
• Ties, pocket squares, or scarves
• Industry-specific props (if relevant)

Comfort Items:

• Water bottle
• Light snacks
• Weather-appropriate outerwear

Administrative:

• Payment method
• Booking confirmation
• Reference photos (optional)
• List of questions
• List of where you’ll use headshots

Optional Items

• Multiple accessory options (2-3 of each type)
• Anti-static spray or dryer sheets
• Small sewing kit

Day-Of Reminders

• Arrive 10 minutes early
• Plan for parking or transportation
• Check weather if doing outdoor shots
• Avoid eating anything that might stick in teeth right before
• Bring positive energy and an open mind

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You’re ready. Seriously—if you’ve worked through this checklist and gathered everything here, you’re more prepared than 90% of people who show up for headshot sessions.

Remember, the goal isn’t perfection. The goal is to show up as your authentic, professional self and create images that represent you well. Being prepared just makes that easier.

For more guidance on preparing for your entire session (not just what to pack), check out my comprehensive guide on how to prepare for your headshot session. And if you’re curious about my approach to headshots specifically, you can read about what makes my headshots different.

Now take a deep breath, pack your bag, and get ready for a great session. You’ve got this.